Up to the minute DVD info page The Digital Bits are usually first online with the latest disc rumors, and if not first, they’ll be able to confirm or deny reports based on their close association with the main Studios. Now, in the always entertaining Coming Classic Attractions column, writer Barrie Maxwell reveals several titles that will be of particular interest to animation aficionados!

In addition to a slate of new (live-action) reviews (including George Pal’s first feature effort, 1950’s A Christmas Wish), Barrie fills us in on some big releases for 2004: The Walt Disney Treasures are confirmed for a May 18th date, while one month earlier, “MGM plans to release a six-disc, special-edition DVD box set of the first five films in the Pink Panther series”, which sounds similar to the set already available in the UK. In addition to a wealth of musical offerings (such as the long awaited debut of Half A Sixpence and a new 2-disc SE for My Fair Lady), toonheads can look forward to a 2-disc SE of Forbidden Planet (for which the Disney Studio provided the film’s many animated special effects in 1956).

Also reported are long-rumored first season editions of the classic Hanna-Barbera shows The Flintstones: Season One and The Jetsons: Season One, finally coming to multi-disc sets around next August from Warner Home Video! Finally, Maxwell fills us in on the recently released Norman McLaren: The Collector’s Edition, “a box set focusing on the acclaimed Canadian animation expert that includes two discs” featuring 14 of McLaren’s films, an extensive documentary, and a book, Norman McLaren And The Creative Process. Many other classic and “must-have” titles are also named, so check it out for any personal favorites!