Of course, you're going to have to be a fan of wholesome 50's sitcom to make it through this set of DVD's. There's a lot of gosh, golly, and gee to wade through. And of course, there's a homogenous backdrop of impeccably dressed similar looking girls and boys (Leonard Maltin explains that it was unusual for Annette herself to be on the show with her dark hair and Italian surname), malt shops at the corner, and white picket fences. It's the idealized version of life back then, and if anything, only shows a comforting stability that people may have wished for. I wouldn't call it a timeless classic like the back of the box touts, but this is definitely a good collection if you're interested in the beginnings of Annette's career.
The bonus feature "To Annette With Love" is one of the most enjoyable parts of the DVD. It explores many different areas of Annette Funicello's career. Of course, many people will recognize her from work outside of the Mouseketeers. One little song that she reluctantly sung for an episode of Annette launched a career in music. She went on to star in a good number of Disney films as well. Guiding her was her good friend and mentor Walt Disney. You see her talk about her life and tear up at the mention of Disney, and you can tell just how much the relationship meant to her. Looking at Annette now is also something of a wonder. She doesn't seem to have lost the qualities she had as a young woman - the sweet demeanor, the friendliness. She really does seem like the nice, humble girl she was back then.
In addition to the bonus Annette tribute, there are also two full Mickey Mouse club episodes and another feature that goes further in depth into Annette's musical career. The Mickey Mouse Club show, if you haven't seen the old episodes from the 50's, consists of a lot of musical numbers and sketches. If you're hoping to hear a lot more of Annette's music in the music feature, unfortunately the only song that gets played is "Tall Paul." But the feature does go further into Annette's feelings during the time and how she felt about love, fans, and Disney.
This genre of TV entertainment from the 50's is not my favorite, but as far as they go, it's a good production. You'll learn a bit more about Annette Funicello than you probably did before, but there's hardly a wealth of information here. Still, it's a good set, and if you were a fan of hers, you'll probably love this set.
