It is a real shame that the Ant and the Aardvark series from DePatie-Freleng Enterprises didn't last longer. For me, there is not a bad cartoon of the seventeen that make up the series. The weakest cartoons are still above average, better than most of the lesser cartoons in other theatrical series from the studio, and the best were great and among the studio's better work. Most in my view are very enjoyable regardless of the series being quite formulaic, though there were successful changes of pace.
The Ant and the Aardvark series' penultimate cartoon 'Rough Brunch' is certainly not an exception to the not a bad cartoon in the bunch. It is not one of the best Ant and the Aardvark cartoons, there were more imaginative entries in the series that had a little more spark and more memorable supporting characters. It is elevated though by it being one of the most entertaining later cartoons in the series, with some of the series' funniest dialogue, and one of the aardvark's funniest appearances. Not really rough at all.
'Rough Brunch', as said, could have done with a little more spark and freshness in the story. It is a bit ordinary and not much different from other cartoons with relatively similar stories, also like other Ant and the Aardvark cartoons it is on the thin side.
Also feel that there are more memorable and compelling supporting characters than the termite, who doesn't have the same amount of presence or as much amusing material as the titular characters.
However, the visual style in 'Rough Brunch' as is the case for the series is quite charming. Can understand if people find it limited, the finesse is not always there, but the rich colours and the aardvark's reactions, expressions etc. make it even more interesting than it could have been. The music is as light-hearted and infectious as ever with a main theme that makes one want to get up and dance.
Like as said above, 'Rough Brunch' is one of the funniest Ant and the Aardvark cartoon. That is for the aardvark's dialogue namely, there were four lines in particular that stuck out and all were priceless. Them being the ones regarding smart alec termites, saying good morning to a bologna, doing a rain check and whether to call a doctor or plumber. The aardvark is a very compelling and funny character as always, making one of his funniest appearances and the dialogue helps quite a bit. John Byner's voice work is a joy, have always loved its versatility and individuality.
Overall, enjoyable if not one of the series' best. 7/10
