From comedic mastermind Robert Smigel, best known for “Late Night”’s Triumph the Insult Comic Dog, comes this parody of ’50s children’s shows. Using Smigel’s “SNL” animated shorts as a springboard, the show adds the framing device of a corny host and his “Anipals” – puppets who sometimes hump real animals.

The Anipals’ crude adventures make up the bulk of the show – because of the built-in time requirements for producing animation. In addition, the show augments the cartoon concept with live action parodies of PSAs.

While amusing, the Anipals and host Doug grow a bit tiresome as you long for the exceptional shorts. Not surprisingly, the show only lasted one season. But when it’s working, it’s hilarious.

Grade: A-

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