Who framed Roger Rabbit? (1988)

Director: Robert Zemeckis

Starring: Bob Hoskins, Christopher Lloyd, Joanna Cassidy

A toon-hating detective is a cartoon rabbit’s only hope to prove his innocence when he is accused of murder.

Ahhh, what a classic, with an unforgettable performance by Bob Hoskins!

It is a world where toons (animated characters) live among humans. Private Detective Eddie Valiant (Bob Hoskins) hates toons ever since a toon murdered his brother. Now Eddie is hired by R.K. Maroon – the head of Maroon Cartoon Studios – to investigate rumours of adultery. Jessica, the wife of one of his stars, Roger Rabbit, is supposedly having an affair with Marvin Acme, the owner of Acme Corporation and Toontown.

Eddie is a grumpy man who likes his Scotch, but in need of money, so he takes the job. When Roger Rabbit learns of his wife’s affair, he is devastated, and when Marvin Acme is found murdered the next day, Roger becomes the prime suspect.

The animation – movement, shadows, interaction – blends fantastic with real actors; incredibly well considered the film was made over three decades ago. When Roger takes refuge with Eddie, Eddie must do everything in his power to uncover the truth. However, there are much more than meets the eye, as secrets and cover-ups are revealed.

Christopher Lloyd stars as the film’s antagonist, Judge Doom, who found a way to destroy toons, hence they are petrified of him. ‘Who framed Roger Rabbit’ delivers on every level! This is top notch entertainment with a good story, great visuals, and Bob Hoskins is a dish, might I say! This film is a unique cinematic experience, and one I thoroughly enjoyed!

‘Who framed Roger Rabbit’ was a box office success, earning $351.5 million on a $50.6 million budget. It received 46 award nominations, wining 22 including Oscars for Best Film Editing, Best Sound Effects Editing, and Best Visual Effects.

Would I watch it again? Yes, absolutely!