Rex the Runt

And now for something completely different from Aardman Animations, creators of Wallace & Gromit and Chicken Run: an exceedingly clever claymation series that enjoys a devoted cult following in its native England. This two-disc set unleashes all 26 episodes following the canine adventures--some silly, others surreal--of Rex, banjo-playing Wendy, eye-patched Bad Bob, and sweet simpleton Vince. Rex the Runt has the look of a children's show, but like South Park (albeit far, far less crude and raunchy) it offers, in one character's words, "a more sophisticated level of discourse," not to mention the occasional mild profanity, politically incorrect behavior (some of the characters are prone to occasionally tote randomly fired guns), and bodily function gags that give kids and immature adults the giggles. In one installment, the shaggy quartet drill a hole through the earth's crust and deflate the planet ("In retrospect, not a good idea," deadpans Wendy). In another, Rex, Wendy, and Bad Bob discover the University of Love, which resides in the jungle paradise beneath Rex's bed. In yet another, the gang does battle with uprising ants who are protesting the building of a deck in Rex's backyard. Like Monty Python on plasticine, this series delights in tweaking television convention, as Rex and company often step out of character to comment on their adventures. Much of this will sail happily over youngster's heads, and like Pee-Wee's Playhouse, find a welcome home in the hearts of older viewers. Highly recommended. Editor's Choice. (K. Lee Benson)