Wednesday, August 27, 2008

Another lost Roz recording found?



I received an anonymous package in the mail yesterday, with a 16mm reel of film and the following note:

My father worked for Hanna-Barbera in the early 70s, and was the lead animator on the enclosed cartoon, Doctor McGhoulie. The show never aired, as a cease-and-desist order was received by Filmation studios due to similarities to their own Groovy Goolies cartoon. I thought you might be interested in the fact that the theme song is credited to none other than Chap Roz, who I was unfamiliar with until I found your site. My father recently passed away, and knowing I could never sell this, I thought you might appreciate it.
There was no return address, so whoever you are - THANK YOU!

I have not yet run the cartoon - I need to get a 16mm projector to do that, although I've already spoken to some film collectors who insist I get it treated and restored lest an important piece of cartoon history (let alone Chap Roz history) be lost forever.

I immediately shot off a note to Sid, who was able to confirm the sender's story:

I haven't thought about that in at least 30 years, but sure enough, it's a true story. Chap was an up and coming teen star at the time, and he recorded the theme song, was paid, and when the show never aired, we forgot all about it. It wasn't written by Chap or I, but it was his first official recording. I'll be interested in hearing the theme song once you are able to get the film transferred.
So there you have it. As soon as we can ensure it's protected for future generations, we'll get it digitized and up on the site. And to our anonymous benefactor, a thousand thanks!

1 comment:

The Maverick said...

I can't believe Sid is still spinning that old fairy tale!

Bloody hell!