Tailypo

This live-action adaptation of a popular Appalachian children's folktale uses the framing device of a family who, while gathered round the evening campfire, hear a "howling" sound, which the grandmother attributes to the "Tailypo." She then tells the grandchildren the story: in the 1800's, an old hunter (admirably portrayed by Al Keller) and his three coon dogs head for home after a fruitless search for some meat for supper. Once home, the old man is surprised by a strange varmint, whose tail he's able to latch hold of, only to be taken on a rather swift tour of his cabin. Popping down a hole, and headed for the outside and freedom, the critter is able to escape--except for his tail, which comprises the evening's meal. That night, after the old man has gone to sleep, the critter returns, and begins to wail "Tailypo...Tailypo." He wants his tail, now firmly settled in the old hunter's entrails, back. In the battle that eventually ensues, the creature gets more insistent, leading to the jumper ending which brings viewers back to the framing device. Beautifully done, with an effectively sparse use of special effects, Tailypo, a recent CINE Golden Eagle Award winner, is highly recommended for those libraries who can afford it. (Available from: Bill Wadsworth Productions, 1913 W. 37th St., Austin, TX 78731.)