Animator Breakdown: “What Price Porky” (1938)
Technically this was Clampett’s first Looney Tune with Porky and Daffy – here’s my in-depth breakdown.
Dippy Duo: The 85th Anniversary of “Goofy and Wilbur”
Marking its 85th anniversary this year, this funny short not only gives Goofy center stage but introduces a new character.
Drive in Magic: The strangely wonderful Dr. Pepper spots by Keitz & Herndon.
Keitz & Herndon is a studio that probably only the most diehard animation fans would know about.
In the Center Ring (Part 6)
One would think that circus life and atmosphere hardly fit into the wartime years of animation, and that imagery of such frivolity would seem out of style. But you would be wrong.
Van Beuren Music: More from 1932
Mid-to late 1932 continued to be a reasonably successful time for RKO… and the Van Beuren studio.
Duck and Cover: Donald’s World War II Short Subjects
With his short temper and lack of respect for authority, Donald Duck doesn’t seem he’d be the first choice to represent the patriotic American during World War II.
Love is on the Air: Valentine’s Day TV Specials, Part 2
How is it Valentine’s Day already? Weren’t we just watching the Grinch steal Christmas?
Why This Is a Golden Age of Film (and Cartoon) Restoration
A good time to think about some of these things since this year may prove to be a pretty good one for old cartoons.
In the Center Ring (Part 5)
The atmosphere of popcorn, peanuts, and balloons would retain its animated appeal, even as threats of a looming war began to grow.
Jerry Beck is a writer, animation producer, college professor and author of more than 15 books on animation history. He is a former studio exec with Nickelodeon Movies and Disney, and has written for The Hollywood Reporter and Variety. He has curated cartoons for DVD and Blu-ray compilations and has lent his expertise to dozens of bonus documentaries and audio commentaries on such. Beck is currently on the faculty of CalArts in Valencia, UCLA in Westwood and Woodbury University in Burbank – teaching animation history. More about Jerry Beck [Click Here]
