Touché Turtle Away
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Touché Turtle: The Tale of Two Versions
Touché Turtle is a classic animated series cherished by fans of different generations. It is unique in animation history in two distinct forms: an American original and a British adaptation. This fascinating duality, born out of localisation needs and cultural sensibilities, makes Touché Turtle a fascinating case study for animation enthusiasts. Let’s dive into its history, characters, plotlines, legacy, and the quirks that make it stand out.
The History
Touché Turtle first aired in the United States in 1962. It was a product of the golden era of Hanna-Barbera Productions, a studio renowned for creating adored classics like The Flintstones, Yogi Bear, and The Jetsons. Touché Turtle was introduced as part of The Hanna-Barbera New Cartoon Series, alongside Wally Gator and Lippy the Lion & Hardy Har Har.
The show revolved around a good-natured but clumsy turtle, Touché, who frequently found himself over his shell. Voiced by the legendary Don Messick (also the voice of Scooby-Doo and Boo-Boo Bear), Touché became a Saturday morning television staple in America, thanks to his endearing mishaps and memorable catchphrase, “I’ll save the day!”
When British broadcasters acquired the show in the mid-1960s, they faced challenges with cultural references and comedic nuances. Enter Touché Turtle and Friends, a British adaptation that reworked Touche’s voice and dialogue. British voice actor Peter Hawkins, known for his work in Doctor Who re-recorded Touche’s lines, infusing them with British idioms and humour. Additionally, the slapstick sequences were softened to better suit British tastes.
In the late 1990s, the series was digitally remastered for DVD, preserving its charming hand-drawn aesthetic. While the core visuals and narratives remained untouched, the remaster introduced Touché to a new generation of fans.
The Characters
Touché Turtle: The optimistic protagonist who always aims to help but often creates chaos. His heartfelt attempts to solve problems are humorous and touching, cementing his place as a lovable underdog.
Dum Dum: Touche’s loyal dog companion. Dum Dum provides comic relief and occasional sage advice, though it’s often ignored until it’s too late.
Recurring Antagonists: From meddlesome neighbours to mischievous children, Touche’s adventures often involve minor characters who add layers of hilarity and challenge to his escapades.
The Plotlines
Each episode follows Touché as he tries to solve a problem or take on a new challenge, typically leading to humorous misunderstandings. For instance, in Touché and the Haunted House, his scepticism about ghosts hilariously backfires when he encounters actual supernatural activity. Similarly, Touché Goes to Town sees him navigating a city job with predictably chaotic results.
The episodic format ensures that no matter how much trouble Touché encounters, he and Dum Dum always return unscathed, ready for another adventure.
Famous People
Touché Turtle has quietly won the admiration of notable figures. Chuck Jones, a legendary animator behind Looney Tunes, once praised Touche’s comedic timing as “timelessly sharp.” British comedian and actor Stephen Fry has also expressed fondness for the British adaptation, calling it “innocent yet delightfully witty.”
Popular Culture
Touché Turtle’s cultural footprint is modest but enduring. His antics have been referenced in shows like The Simpsons, and his catchphrase, “I’ll save the day!” has been parodied in various sitcoms. The series’ light-hearted humour and quirky tone have inspired modern animated shows like SpongeBob SquarePants, which channels a similar spirit of endearing chaos.
Spin-Offs and Related Work
The Turtle hasn’t had a direct sequel but appeared in crossover shows like Yogi’s Treasure Hunt during the 1980s. Merchandise has played a role in maintaining his legacy, with collectables including figurines, lunchboxes, and a limited-edition line of Touché Turtle pyjamas. These items remain sought-after by fans and collectors alike.
Financials
Although overshadowed by Hanna-Barbera’s flagship franchises, Touché Turtle achieved solid financial success. The show’s syndication in the 1970s and 1980s generated steady revenue, and its remastered DVD release in 1999 sold over 150,000 copies within a year. Original animation cells of Touché now command high prices, with some selling for over £1,000 at auction.
Legacy
Touché Turtle demonstrates how animation can transcend cultural boundaries with thoughtful localisation. The American and British versions retain their unique charm, showcasing how the same concept can adapt to different audiences. Its legacy endures in its gentle humour, inspiring subsequent generations of animated series with its playful yet heartfelt storytelling.
Fun Facts
Touche’s famous line, “I’ll save the day!” was an unscripted improvisation by Don Messick.
The British adaptation was so well-received that it remained in syndication until the early 1980s, long after the American run ended.
A pilot for a Touché Turtle reboot was created in 2010 but never released due to budgetary issues.
Summing it all up
Touché Turtle may not have been Hanna-Barbera’s most celebrated creation, but its dual versions and enduring appeal make it a fascinating case in animation history. Touche’s story is a testament to the timeless nature of simple yet effective storytelling, from its slapstick misadventures to its cultural adaptability.
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I loved Touche in the 1980s!
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