Reviews (2)

Bizarre Betty at her best!
These cartoons have to be seen to be believed! Bimbo's Initiation, Is My Palm Red and Betty Boop M.D. are the weirdest things you'll see without breaking any laws.

What must have been in the air at the Fleischer Studios in the early Thirties is anyone's guess. Brilliant stuff that anyone from a casual fan to a student of animation has to see - not just amoung the classic cartoons but amoung the classic films of all time!

Also, the masters used for this series are beautiful, with the only downside being the lose of the Paramount logo on most of them. You will not find better quality B/W cartoons even from Disney.

Surrealism and the boopster
An amazing collection of some of the more imaginative animation of all time. The Fleischers were the greatest innovators of their day, and stretched the bounds of reality far more than any other studio. As Max put it, "if it can happen in real life, it isn't animation.". His brother Dave put this theory into practice.

The first three volumes of this series are the pre-code toons, the others are a bit too cutesy for my tastes. Volume 3 belongs in everyone's collection, it contains 8 classics of surrealism, including "Bimbo's Inititaion" ... Read more

Reviews (5)

THE ANIMATED DIVA.
Betty Boop,"Boop oop a Doop!" This girl was one naughty diva. But I liked her. The creators created her with a lot of sex appeal, and spunk. She was definitely created for the adult audience. These unique cartoon shorts were quite erotic in view, and should take the rate of PG. For the adults, who enjoy viewing Betty Boop cartoons, this one is a must own.

Cartoons don't get any better than this!
I may have seen some of these cartoons when I was small, on TV in the late 50's. Or maybe they just have a familiar quality that connects to me personally. These cartoons are really animated; everything in them is alive and constantly interre lating and moving with the music to create a complex carnival parade of fantastic, vibrant, evocative imagery. The best of them are at once funny, tragic, sexy, and sweet. The most interesting thing to me is the different and seemingly contradictory ways that Betty is portrayed in different cartoons, and even within the same cartoon. Some of this is because she was drawn differently by different artists and her personality developed over time, but that is just like in life. So if she should slap a lecherous attacker in the face one minute and be coming on to him the next, she has her reasons, and the one thing we can count on is that she will be protected; because her experience is her innocence, her strength is her weakness, and so her character is consistent and simple after all. Also, she has her friends Bimbo and Koko, and all of the wild animals of the forest, to help her if necessary.
Because the best of these cartoons represent love, life, and happiness, they have been suppressed to some degree over the years. My favorites are the three with Cab Calloway, particularly Snow White, which is a real classic. There are a few that you would probably not care to watch more than once or twice, but most of the toons on this video are at least very good. One problem is that the film seems to have been cropped, so you sometimes can't see the whole picture, particularly the very top.

great historically and musically
The first few segments are outdated and interesting only from an historical perspective. Don't let this deter you. The rest of the segments are fabulous. The musical numbers really swing. With the animation you can "see" the music. The work here shows great development when compared to the earlier sequences. You will not see these on TV. Political correctness will prevent that. I do not believe any of what is shown is meant to be hurtful although some may interpret it that way.

Betty's Beautiful Classics!
With the state of animation today, and only a few mainstream successes that are actually any good (stand up and take a bow Simpsons) it is a pleasure to find a tape like this.

These truely unique cartoons, that stood out from the crowd even in the Thirties, are amoung the greatest and most unusual animation ever made. Each cartoon is such a bizarre stream of consciousness its sometimes breathtaking.

Worth the price just for the excellent Cab Calloway an Louis Armstrong performances and for Betty Boop's Bamboo Isle.

A major point about this series is the quality of the films. You really won't find any cartoons from the Thirties in better condition - these really sparkle!

Betty at her Naughtiest (and Best)!
These are the cartoons made before Betty had to raise her neckline and lower her hemline. While they've got nothing on "South Park", there is a terrific "anything goes" approach to them that's infectious. Not until Bugs Bunny would cartoons be so liberated.

The best of the bunch are the three featuring songs by Cab Calloway, especially "Snow White", which is a lead contender for best cartoon of all time.

Overall, the quality is excellent; many of the cartoons look brand new. Unfortunately, the picture seems to be cropped heavily on the top. Since these seem to be an old TV package, I don't know if a complete print can be found, but I sure hope so.

The sound is good too, except on some shorts featuring Rudy Vallee and Etherl Merman. But you won't care much, because those shorts are the most forgettable. ... Read more

Reviews (4)

The Fleischers' Last Hurrah
A critical and commercial failure when first released, Max and Dave Fleischer's "Hoppity Goes to Town" (1941) has grown in stature over the years and remains a minor classic among animation buffs. The Fleischers' second (and last) cartoon feature was a decided improvement over the unevenness of "Gulliver's Travels" (1939) and an admirable departure from the Disney storybook formula. Unlike the Disney features of that period, "Hoppity" utilized an original story (partly inspired by Frank Capra's "Mr. Deeds Goes to Town") with a contemporary New York setting. The result is an offbeat comedy-drama that focuses on urban upheaval and its jarring effect upon the residents of Bugville. Beautifully animated and showcasing some memorable songs from Hoagy Carmichael, "Hoppity Goes to Town" is one of the Fleischers' finest achievements. Sadly, the film's poor box-office showing was a contributing factor to the demise of Fleischer Studios in 1942. Though "Hoppity" enjoyed a sporadic home-video release during the 1980s, present-day VHS tapes are rather scarce. If you can find a used copy, it's well worth the investment.

terrific animated musical for the whole family
I first saw this full-length Max Fleischer cartoon as a child. I purchased it recently for sentimental value, but our three-year old really enjoys it and asks for it repeatedly. Hoppity is a grasshopper who believes that teamwork and community are important. He's in love with Mr. Bumble's daughter, Honey Bee, and things look good except for two things -- careless humans who are trespassing on the grounds after a gate is broken and the dastardly C. Bagley Beetle, who will stop at nothing to marry Honey and run Bugville. The animation is fun, if not as glitzy as more recent fare, and kids might initially blow it off -- but should soon get caught up in the fun characterizations, interesting story and catchy 1940s music. Children will enjoy the clever visuals while adults can appreciate the word play and references. ("Well jeepers, Mr. Creepers!")

This 85-minute film by a real craftsman has all the potential to be a pleasant surprise for your whole family. Give it a try!

The Best Full-Length Animation That Disney NEVER Made!!!
It will always remain a mystery as to why Max and Dave Fleischer didn't persevere with this format, instead of concentrating on 'shorts' and serials, such as Betty Boop and Superman. Perhaps Hoppity wasn't a box-office smash at the time (1941).

Walt Disney's classic animations have stood the test of time - this beauty has too! The quality of the animation is second to none, the storyline is captivating, and the viewer always cares what is going to happen to the characters throughout.

This reviewer first watched Hoppity when it was shown on British television in around 1963 (at nine years old). I will recall being positively entranced by it all, finding the humorous interludes rib-tickling, the threats to our insect friends seemed all too real, and the sense of joy at their eventual arrival in the 'promised land' was overwhelming.

The BBC (who held the rights then, as they still do at the time of this review) regularly repeated showings for the next eight or so years, at which time the film appeared to suffer 'dating'. The last showing (as I recall) would be in around 1982, since when, it seems, it has gathered dust in the vaults. This is a real shame - I think that, despite the advances in animation technology which have produced such movies as 'Antz' and 'Bug's Life', today's youngsters would appreciate Hoppity's adventures as much as I did all those years ago.

Neither my children nor my grand-children have ever seen the film, and, as the VHS PAL (British) format of 'Hoppity goes to Town' has been deleted, I am very likely to purchase an NTSC version in the near future, and pay to have a copy transferred to VHS PAL.

It will definitely be worth it!

Glorious Family Entertainment!
As delightful and charming an adventure for kids and adults alike as you will find! With it's heartwarming tale and beautiful soundtrack this is a movie everyone will want to see over and over again. Follow Hoppity in his quest to relocate his community of bugs and grubs whilst a young songwriter and his wife also struggle to keep a roof over their heads with nothing but a piano and a beautiful song, 'The Couple In The Castle In The Air' keeping them from the streets. Watch as the two stories entwine and delight in a classic happy ending! ... Read more

Reviews (26)

This is simply pure magic -- breathtaking!
In 1939 when this movie was released, it faced stiff competition at the Academy Awards from 'Gone with the Wind' and 'The Wizard of Oz.' Nominated for an Academy Award in 1939, it didn't win. But those who love this film will always believe that is should have. By 1939, the Fleischer Studios had been crafting the finest animation around -- they actually produced the first full length animated movie (though Disney gets the credit). This is the very best that the Fleischer Studios ever produced. Its characters are every bit as rich and deep as the very best Disney, Bluth or Spielberg-Katzenberg efforts. (Anyone who hears the classic line: "There's a giant on the beach!" -- will never forget it!) For years, I have wanted to get my hands on this and remaster this movie digitally. (I do effects and compositing for a living.) It's wonderful to see that someone who loves this movie has given it the care and respect it deserves. Max Fleischer was a sheer genius, whose work includes the original Betty Boop, Popeye, the animated Superman -- and his own contributions to film include techniques of effects production that are still used today. He was a master of his craft who, sadly, has little recognition outside artists and animators. I have bought many copies of this over the years -- usually in versions so poorly recorded and transfered that they are pitiful indicators of the Fleischer talent -- and yet, everyone I've given it to, loves the movie. My personal gratitude to Winfield Hoskins, Seymour Kneitel and Thomas Reich for your tender care in restoring such a wonderful movie. Thank you. It is truly long overdue and it is a case of giving honor to whom honor is due. This belongs right alongside the best Disney, tucked right on the shelf alongside Bluth's best -- and when the young and the young at heart ask "What is this?" -- play it. My grand daugther plays it regularly and never tires of it and always quites "There's a giant on the beach" -- and she laughs. This movie is simply pure magic -- breathtaking! Many of you will watch it and will suddenly remember seeing this long ago and your eyes will light up, just as many who I have bought it for, have said to me: "I saw this years ago and have never known what it was. I love this!" And they always smile. And I always buy more copies. The soul of a true artist lives in this movie. And this is the best edition of it that you will find. Buy it...

Classic cartoon gets the royal treatment
You may or may not care about the historical or technical aspects of this film (The 2nd full length animation, after Snow White. One of two feature films to come out of the famous Fleisher Studios. The delicate use of the rotoscoping, a process by which animation cells are created by tracing them from filmed footage or photographs. A great extra documentary featuring Max Fleisher, showing how cartoons are made.) If you are a cartoon buff, these things may appeal to you.

You will probably enjoy the visual element of this film. (An entirely hand painted cartoon, like a living painting. Sensuous oceans that echo the block print style of the Japanese Ukiyo-E masters. Outstanding use of the masking effect.) If you enjoy animated art, these things should appeal to you.

Or you might just want to run around your house screaming "Giant on the Beach!" and have some fun watching a great old cartoon that never really got its due. My 4 year old nephew seems to favor this approach, no matter how much I remind him of the film's aesthetic qualities and historical importance. Go figure. Anyway, this is a great DVD, and well worth the rather small price.

GULLIVERS TRAVELS GREAT FILM
YOU CAN BY THIS AT THE 99 CENT ONLY STORES
THEY HAVE IT FOR 99CENTS AND IT'S NEW.

The classic of my childhhood!
This beautiful movie is my favourite cartoon! Beats today's Disney stuff hands down! Just LOVELY!

A sheer marvel, sustaining comparison with Disney's
I discovered Dave Fleisher's Gulliver long ago, when first released in France, in 1980 or so. It was a shock to discover that Disney's creations were not the one and only! Unfortunetely, this pure wonder remains widely ignored on this side of the Atlantic, as well as "Mr Bug goes to town"...(by the way, when will the DVD of this cartoon be released?). No promotion whatesoever; just some VHS very cheep - thus unconvincing for most people - accasional editions could be obtained... a shame!

The present restored edition, accompanied with vintage stuff, such as a brilliant explanation on the making of cartoons is a must have. ... Read more

Reviews (1)

Must have Betty Tape!
If you don't want to get the whole collection get Musical Madness, Pre-Code Betty & Surrealism. These are the classic must-have cartoons. The Musical Madness tape actually includes Musical Madness and Fairy Tales:

+ Any Little Girl That's a Nice Little Girl: A Casanova cat with a girlfriend for each day of the week visits his favorite, Lulu Belle, leading into a Bouncing Ball rendition of the title song.

+ Dancing Fool. Daredevil sign painters Bimbo and Koko like what they see through the window of Betty Boop's Dancing School, and stay for a lesson.

+ I Heard. What makes this an outstanding cartoon are the compositions and quiet vocals provided by Don Redman, and the superb accompaniment by his orchestra. Very little film footage of Don exists, and every bit of it is to be treasured.

+ Let Me Call You Sweetheart. Betty Boop, a nursemaid, meets a masher in the park; with the Bouncing Ball, Ethel Merman sings the title song.

+ Oh! How I Hate to Get Up in the Morning. Reis and Dunn (with Betty Boop) sing the Irving Berlin song with a Bouncing Ball. In a cartoon army camp, everything rises before the soldiers.

+ Romantic Melodies. Bimbo leads an awful German street band to serenade Betty Boop, but she prefers Arthur Tracy, 'Street Singer of the Air,' who in live- action sings several old-fashioned songs with a Bouncing Ball.

+ Popular Melodies. Arthur Jarrett sings some songs with the Bouncing Ball; Betty Boop appears for "One Hour with You" and "Boop-Oop-A-Doop."

+ Sally Swing. Betty Boop, auditioning bandleaders for a college swing dance, "discovers" a cleaning woman who resembles Betty Grable.

+ Mother Goose Land. In response to Betty Boop's wish, Mother Goose materializes from a book cover and gives her a tour; she's chased by Miss Muffet's spider, who proves to be amorous, not predatory.

+ Parade of the Wooden Soldiers. An action figure of Betty Boop drops in on a small toy shop; the other toys come to life and crown her their queen. But there's a big rag doll of King Kong... Based on the titular classical music

+ Poor Cinderella. In her only color cartoon, Betty Boop goes to the ball thanks to the good fairy; later, only her foot fits the glass slipper. This is their finest B-B cartoon, and may just be their finest EVER, period.
Using their 3-D filming process (and a unheard-of budget for a cartoon short), they adapted the Cinderella legend to Betty, adding some marvelous songs and (likely roto-scoped) beautiful dance numbers. For reasons not told, this was the only Betty Boop cartoon ever done in color--a tragedy.
Look for versions with the original opening titles intact--even the titles show that this was a project of love (and yes, money). Plus, Betty's as sexy an ingenue as ever thanks to Technicolor.

+ Jack and the Beanstalk. A differently-drawn Bimbo, incensed at trash dropped from the clouds, climbs his beanstalk to find not only the giant but also his slave (Betty Boop with dog's ears).

+ Dizzy Red Riding Hood. Betty Boop goes to Grandma's through the woods despite wolf warnings; but Bimbo follows and gives the old story a new twist.

+ Betty Boop's Halloween Party. It's the scariest time of year, and Betty Boop hosts a party with aid from a scarecrow; but an uninvited gorilla threatens havoc.

+ Betty in Blunderland. Betty Boop mixed in with some Alice in Wonderland - this cartoon is a classic. Wild story as Betty takes a sip from the shrink-ola juice machine and meets up with the mad hatter, the white rabbit and the queen of hearts! ... Read more

Reviews (7)

Fantastic Voyage to Your Childhood
This 2 disc DVD set features all but one of the "Color Classics" that were released by Paramount Pictures in the 30s and 40s. These cartoons were originally shown in theaters between features. In the 50s through the 70s, these cartoons were shown on TV. In the 80s and 90s, with the cartoons in the public domain, they were put on VHS and sold cheaply by various companies. Now they are available on DVD.

As all of these cartoons are in the public domain, and these prints are made from the best available copies, these prints have faded, scratches and in some cases poor soundtracks. However being the only DVD release of all but one of the "Color Classics" makes this a well worthwhile buy.

The DVD has audio commentary for some cartoons, one with a commentary by Betty Boop herself. There is also an artwork gallery showing some original conceptual sketches for certain cartoons. Some prints of cartoons have been digitally enhanced, and some of these prints are the best quality that I have seen thus far, or at least until the original studio makes prints from the original negatives.

It's a worthwhile buy to relieve your childhood.

Pretty good compilation
Despite "OK" video quality and rather vanilla audio commentaries, this is the only DVD I know of that took the effort to preserve these rare master works. Good for kids or animation collectors.

3/5

An Essential Fleischer Collection
Republic Entertainment should be indicted for cultural crimes since they refuse to release first-generation prints of Max and Dave Fleischer's "Color Classics" series. As a result of this neglect, VCI and Kit Parker Films have compiled "Somewhere in Dreamland" -- a fine collection of public-domain Fleischer cartoons from 1934 to 1941. Most of the "Color Classics" are represented in this two-DVD set, with the print quality ranging from excellent to poor. The series is decidedly uneven, but it contains several Fleischer gems, including Betty Boop's "Poor Cinderella" (1934), "The Kids in the Shoe" (1935), "The Cobweb Hotel" (1936), "All's Fair at the Fair" (1938) and "Ants in the Plants" (1940). Though influenced by the success of Disney's "Silly Symphonies," the Fleischer spirit is evident in many "Color Classics," particularly the lesser-known entries such as "Chicken Ala King" (1936), "A Car-Tune Portrait" (1936) and "Hold It!" (1937). The DVD set also features two Oscar-nominated shorts, "Educated Fish" (1937) and "Hunky and Spunky" (1938), which are enjoyable but do not represent the Fleischers' best work. Until Republic gets its act together, "Somewhere in Dreamland" will remain the definitive "Color Classics" collection and is highly recommended to aficionados of vintage animation.

Asking too much for the content.
These are fine cartoons but no better than your cheap VHS copies... they essentially dust off the old copies, transfer them and sell them at a much higher price.

The definitive collection ¿ for now
These cartoons are not restored in any real sense, and a few are pretty rough - to the point of being unwatchable. One has the audio and video out of sync by two seconds. I wish Greedy Humpty Dumpty was in better shape, which is near the top of my list of Fleisher cartoons. My copy snags on disk 1, item 7, and I have to go back to the menu to prompt it along. Fans of Fleischer will nevertheless embrace this collection and thank the producers for making available in any form what we would not otherwise have. I enjoyed the audio commentary provided by the producers. Fleischer videos and DVDs come and go, and I suspect it will just be a question of time before Republic or someone invests the money to fully restore the Color Classics - probably not in my lifetime, though. My children, as well as I, love this DVD collection. Although the price is a little steep, it's still a good value for 4.5 hours of Fleischer magic! ... Read more

Reviews (26)

This is simply pure magic -- breathtaking!
In 1939 when this movie was released, it faced stiff competition at the Academy Awards from 'Gone with the Wind' and 'The Wizard of Oz.' Nominated for an Academy Award in 1939, it didn't win. But those who love this film will always believe that is should have. By 1939, the Fleischer Studios had been crafting the finest animation around -- they actually produced the first full length animated movie (though Disney gets the credit). This is the very best that the Fleischer Studios ever produced. Its characters are every bit as rich and deep as the very best Disney, Bluth or Spielberg-Katzenberg efforts. (Anyone who hears the classic line: "There's a giant on the beach!" -- will never forget it!) For years, I have wanted to get my hands on this and remaster this movie digitally. (I do effects and compositing for a living.) It's wonderful to see that someone who loves this movie has given it the care and respect it deserves. Max Fleischer was a sheer genius, whose work includes the original Betty Boop, Popeye, the animated Superman -- and his own contributions to film include techniques of effects production that are still used today. He was a master of his craft who, sadly, has little recognition outside artists and animators. I have bought many copies of this over the years -- usually in versions so poorly recorded and transfered that they are pitiful indicators of the Fleischer talent -- and yet, everyone I've given it to, loves the movie. My personal gratitude to Winfield Hoskins, Seymour Kneitel and Thomas Reich for your tender care in restoring such a wonderful movie. Thank you. It is truly long overdue and it is a case of giving honor to whom honor is due. This belongs right alongside the best Disney, tucked right on the shelf alongside Bluth's best -- and when the young and the young at heart ask "What is this?" -- play it. My grand daugther plays it regularly and never tires of it and always quites "There's a giant on the beach" -- and she laughs. This movie is simply pure magic -- breathtaking! Many of you will watch it and will suddenly remember seeing this long ago and your eyes will light up, just as many who I have bought it for, have said to me: "I saw this years ago and have never known what it was. I love this!" And they always smile. And I always buy more copies. The soul of a true artist lives in this movie. And this is the best edition of it that you will find. Buy it...

Classic cartoon gets the royal treatment
You may or may not care about the historical or technical aspects of this film (The 2nd full length animation, after Snow White. One of two feature films to come out of the famous Fleisher Studios. The delicate use of the rotoscoping, a process by which animation cells are created by tracing them from filmed footage or photographs. A great extra documentary featuring Max Fleisher, showing how cartoons are made.) If you are a cartoon buff, these things may appeal to you.

You will probably enjoy the visual element of this film. (An entirely hand painted cartoon, like a living painting. Sensuous oceans that echo the block print style of the Japanese Ukiyo-E masters. Outstanding use of the masking effect.) If you enjoy animated art, these things should appeal to you.

Or you might just want to run around your house screaming "Giant on the Beach!" and have some fun watching a great old cartoon that never really got its due. My 4 year old nephew seems to favor this approach, no matter how much I remind him of the film's aesthetic qualities and historical importance. Go figure. Anyway, this is a great DVD, and well worth the rather small price.

GULLIVERS TRAVELS GREAT FILM
YOU CAN BY THIS AT THE 99 CENT ONLY STORES
THEY HAVE IT FOR 99CENTS AND IT'S NEW.

The classic of my childhhood!
This beautiful movie is my favourite cartoon! Beats today's Disney stuff hands down! Just LOVELY!

A sheer marvel, sustaining comparison with Disney's
I discovered Dave Fleisher's Gulliver long ago, when first released in France, in 1980 or so. It was a shock to discover that Disney's creations were not the one and only! Unfortunetely, this pure wonder remains widely ignored on this side of the Atlantic, as well as "Mr Bug goes to town"...(by the way, when will the DVD of this cartoon be released?). No promotion whatesoever; just some VHS very cheep - thus unconvincing for most people - accasional editions could be obtained... a shame!

The present restored edition, accompanied with vintage stuff, such as a brilliant explanation on the making of cartoons is a must have. ... Read more

Reviews (26)

This is simply pure magic -- breathtaking!
In 1939 when this movie was released, it faced stiff competition at the Academy Awards from 'Gone with the Wind' and 'The Wizard of Oz.' Nominated for an Academy Award in 1939, it didn't win. But those who love this film will always believe that is should have. By 1939, the Fleischer Studios had been crafting the finest animation around -- they actually produced the first full length animated movie (though Disney gets the credit). This is the very best that the Fleischer Studios ever produced. Its characters are every bit as rich and deep as the very best Disney, Bluth or Spielberg-Katzenberg efforts. (Anyone who hears the classic line: "There's a giant on the beach!" -- will never forget it!) For years, I have wanted to get my hands on this and remaster this movie digitally. (I do effects and compositing for a living.) It's wonderful to see that someone who loves this movie has given it the care and respect it deserves. Max Fleischer was a sheer genius, whose work includes the original Betty Boop, Popeye, the animated Superman -- and his own contributions to film include techniques of effects production that are still used today. He was a master of his craft who, sadly, has little recognition outside artists and animators. I have bought many copies of this over the years -- usually in versions so poorly recorded and transfered that they are pitiful indicators of the Fleischer talent -- and yet, everyone I've given it to, loves the movie. My personal gratitude to Winfield Hoskins, Seymour Kneitel and Thomas Reich for your tender care in restoring such a wonderful movie. Thank you. It is truly long overdue and it is a case of giving honor to whom honor is due. This belongs right alongside the best Disney, tucked right on the shelf alongside Bluth's best -- and when the young and the young at heart ask "What is this?" -- play it. My grand daugther plays it regularly and never tires of it and always quites "There's a giant on the beach" -- and she laughs. This movie is simply pure magic -- breathtaking! Many of you will watch it and will suddenly remember seeing this long ago and your eyes will light up, just as many who I have bought it for, have said to me: "I saw this years ago and have never known what it was. I love this!" And they always smile. And I always buy more copies. The soul of a true artist lives in this movie. And this is the best edition of it that you will find. Buy it...

Classic cartoon gets the royal treatment
You may or may not care about the historical or technical aspects of this film (The 2nd full length animation, after Snow White. One of two feature films to come out of the famous Fleisher Studios. The delicate use of the rotoscoping, a process by which animation cells are created by tracing them from filmed footage or photographs. A great extra documentary featuring Max Fleisher, showing how cartoons are made.) If you are a cartoon buff, these things may appeal to you.

You will probably enjoy the visual element of this film. (An entirely hand painted cartoon, like a living painting. Sensuous oceans that echo the block print style of the Japanese Ukiyo-E masters. Outstanding use of the masking effect.) If you enjoy animated art, these things should appeal to you.

Or you might just want to run around your house screaming "Giant on the Beach!" and have some fun watching a great old cartoon that never really got its due. My 4 year old nephew seems to favor this approach, no matter how much I remind him of the film's aesthetic qualities and historical importance. Go figure. Anyway, this is a great DVD, and well worth the rather small price.

GULLIVERS TRAVELS GREAT FILM
YOU CAN BY THIS AT THE 99 CENT ONLY STORES
THEY HAVE IT FOR 99CENTS AND IT'S NEW.

The classic of my childhhood!
This beautiful movie is my favourite cartoon! Beats today's Disney stuff hands down! Just LOVELY!

A sheer marvel, sustaining comparison with Disney's
I discovered Dave Fleisher's Gulliver long ago, when first released in France, in 1980 or so. It was a shock to discover that Disney's creations were not the one and only! Unfortunetely, this pure wonder remains widely ignored on this side of the Atlantic, as well as "Mr Bug goes to town"...(by the way, when will the DVD of this cartoon be released?). No promotion whatesoever; just some VHS very cheep - thus unconvincing for most people - accasional editions could be obtained... a shame!

The present restored edition, accompanied with vintage stuff, such as a brilliant explanation on the making of cartoons is a must have. ... Read more

Reviews (2)

Live to boop!
If you're a BB fan, this series is for you! Although mild compared to what we see at the movies and on TV today, it is still a significant mile-stone in the evolution of the art. I only wish they were on DVD. The video transfer is as good as can be expected, and I was pleasently surprised at the LFE content, intended or not.

Every Home Should Have One!
The most surreal, risque, astounding and wonderful pieces of Animation you could ever hope to find - including Betty's first appearance as a dog - these are absolute treasures.

On top of that, the picture quality is so sharp you can't believe you're watching cartoons made in 1929. ... Read more

Reviews (1)

Jimmyshang, Jimmyshang
What a hat! I mean there is this lady who is in a moovy! What is up with that? Also, Robin Willioms whas horrrribel in this moovy. ... Read more

Reviews (1)

Harlem Renaissance in all its slicked-back, sepia-tone glory
Since there is no description of this video in amazon's catalog, let me provide a little. It will also serve as google bait for kids doing their Harlem Renaissance homework.

This is a low budget but nonetheless delightful look back at famous black jazz entertainers of Harlem in the 1930s. Archival footage is intercut with an interview of reminisces by an aged Cab Calloway, fresh from his triumph in _The Blues Brothers_ movie. (BTW, this film was released in 1981, not 1931) His massive, expressive face softens when talking about dear old friends like Fats Waller, and lights up when talking about brown bombshells like Dorothy Dandridge.

The archival footage is taken from old musicals, along with newreel footage of crowds outside clubs and theaters. There are performances by Count Basie, Duke Ellington, Calloway himself, lots of dance numbers featuring Bill "Bojangles" Robinson, some wild lindy hoppin', even a house rent party scene from some movie. My favorite bits are the numbers featuring Fats Waller, his over-the-top mugging for the camera quite overshadowing his two-fisted musical mastery. But all of it is a must-see for the uninformed. You may see this footage in other film presentations, but you won't get a more knowledgeable host than Calloway.

The film wraps up with the genial old Calloway back on the Harlem street, giving and receiving hugs and pecks from passersby, making his exit. Hi-de-hi-de-hi-de-ho... ... Read more

Reviews (1)

Must have Betty Tape!
If you don't want to get the whole collection get Musical Madness, Pre-Code Betty & Surrealism. These are the classic must-have cartoons. The Musical Madness tape actually includes Musical Madness and Fairy Tales:

+ Any Little Girl That's a Nice Little Girl: A Casanova cat with a girlfriend for each day of the week visits his favorite, Lulu Belle, leading into a Bouncing Ball rendition of the title song.

+ Dancing Fool. Daredevil sign painters Bimbo and Koko like what they see through the window of Betty Boop's Dancing School, and stay for a lesson.

+ I Heard. What makes this an outstanding cartoon are the compositions and quiet vocals provided by Don Redman, and the superb accompaniment by his orchestra. Very little film footage of Don exists, and every bit of it is to be treasured.

+ Let Me Call You Sweetheart. Betty Boop, a nursemaid, meets a masher in the park; with the Bouncing Ball, Ethel Merman sings the title song.

+ Oh! How I Hate to Get Up in the Morning. Reis and Dunn (with Betty Boop) sing the Irving Berlin song with a Bouncing Ball. In a cartoon army camp, everything rises before the soldiers.

+ Romantic Melodies. Bimbo leads an awful German street band to serenade Betty Boop, but she prefers Arthur Tracy, 'Street Singer of the Air,' who in live- action sings several old-fashioned songs with a Bouncing Ball.

+ Popular Melodies. Arthur Jarrett sings some songs with the Bouncing Ball; Betty Boop appears for "One Hour with You" and "Boop-Oop-A-Doop."

+ Sally Swing. Betty Boop, auditioning bandleaders for a college swing dance, "discovers" a cleaning woman who resembles Betty Grable.

+ Mother Goose Land. In response to Betty Boop's wish, Mother Goose materializes from a book cover and gives her a tour; she's chased by Miss Muffet's spider, who proves to be amorous, not predatory.

+ Parade of the Wooden Soldiers. An action figure of Betty Boop drops in on a small toy shop; the other toys come to life and crown her their queen. But there's a big rag doll of King Kong... Based on the titular classical music

+ Poor Cinderella. In her only color cartoon, Betty Boop goes to the ball thanks to the good fairy; later, only her foot fits the glass slipper. This is their finest B-B cartoon, and may just be their finest EVER, period.
Using their 3-D filming process (and a unheard-of budget for a cartoon short), they adapted the Cinderella legend to Betty, adding some marvelous songs and (likely roto-scoped) beautiful dance numbers. For reasons not told, this was the only Betty Boop cartoon ever done in color--a tragedy.
Look for versions with the original opening titles intact--even the titles show that this was a project of love (and yes, money). Plus, Betty's as sexy an ingenue as ever thanks to Technicolor.

+ Jack and the Beanstalk. A differently-drawn Bimbo, incensed at trash dropped from the clouds, climbs his beanstalk to find not only the giant but also his slave (Betty Boop with dog's ears).

+ Dizzy Red Riding Hood. Betty Boop goes to Grandma's through the woods despite wolf warnings; but Bimbo follows and gives the old story a new twist.

+ Betty Boop's Halloween Party. It's the scariest time of year, and Betty Boop hosts a party with aid from a scarecrow; but an uninvited gorilla threatens havoc.

+ Betty in Blunderland. Betty Boop mixed in with some Alice in Wonderland - this cartoon is a classic. Wild story as Betty takes a sip from the shrink-ola juice machine and meets up with the mad hatter, the white rabbit and the queen of hearts! ... Read more

Reviews (26)

This is simply pure magic -- breathtaking!
In 1939 when this movie was released, it faced stiff competition at the Academy Awards from 'Gone with the Wind' and 'The Wizard of Oz.' Nominated for an Academy Award in 1939, it didn't win. But those who love this film will always believe that is should have. By 1939, the Fleischer Studios had been crafting the finest animation around -- they actually produced the first full length animated movie (though Disney gets the credit). This is the very best that the Fleischer Studios ever produced. Its characters are every bit as rich and deep as the very best Disney, Bluth or Spielberg-Katzenberg efforts. (Anyone who hears the classic line: "There's a giant on the beach!" -- will never forget it!) For years, I have wanted to get my hands on this and remaster this movie digitally. (I do effects and compositing for a living.) It's wonderful to see that someone who loves this movie has given it the care and respect it deserves. Max Fleischer was a sheer genius, whose work includes the original Betty Boop, Popeye, the animated Superman -- and his own contributions to film include techniques of effects production that are still used today. He was a master of his craft who, sadly, has little recognition outside artists and animators. I have bought many copies of this over the years -- usually in versions so poorly recorded and transfered that they are pitiful indicators of the Fleischer talent -- and yet, everyone I've given it to, loves the movie. My personal gratitude to Winfield Hoskins, Seymour Kneitel and Thomas Reich for your tender care in restoring such a wonderful movie. Thank you. It is truly long overdue and it is a case of giving honor to whom honor is due. This belongs right alongside the best Disney, tucked right on the shelf alongside Bluth's best -- and when the young and the young at heart ask "What is this?" -- play it. My grand daugther plays it regularly and never tires of it and always quites "There's a giant on the beach" -- and she laughs. This movie is simply pure magic -- breathtaking! Many of you will watch it and will suddenly remember seeing this long ago and your eyes will light up, just as many who I have bought it for, have said to me: "I saw this years ago and have never known what it was. I love this!" And they always smile. And I always buy more copies. The soul of a true artist lives in this movie. And this is the best edition of it that you will find. Buy it...

Classic cartoon gets the royal treatment
You may or may not care about the historical or technical aspects of this film (The 2nd full length animation, after Snow White. One of two feature films to come out of the famous Fleisher Studios. The delicate use of the rotoscoping, a process by which animation cells are created by tracing them from filmed footage or photographs. A great extra documentary featuring Max Fleisher, showing how cartoons are made.) If you are a cartoon buff, these things may appeal to you.

You will probably enjoy the visual element of this film. (An entirely hand painted cartoon, like a living painting. Sensuous oceans that echo the block print style of the Japanese Ukiyo-E masters. Outstanding use of the masking effect.) If you enjoy animated art, these things should appeal to you.

Or you might just want to run around your house screaming "Giant on the Beach!" and have some fun watching a great old cartoon that never really got its due. My 4 year old nephew seems to favor this approach, no matter how much I remind him of the film's aesthetic qualities and historical importance. Go figure. Anyway, this is a great DVD, and well worth the rather small price.

GULLIVERS TRAVELS GREAT FILM
YOU CAN BY THIS AT THE 99 CENT ONLY STORES
THEY HAVE IT FOR 99CENTS AND IT'S NEW.

The classic of my childhhood!
This beautiful movie is my favourite cartoon! Beats today's Disney stuff hands down! Just LOVELY!

A sheer marvel, sustaining comparison with Disney's
I discovered Dave Fleisher's Gulliver long ago, when first released in France, in 1980 or so. It was a shock to discover that Disney's creations were not the one and only! Unfortunetely, this pure wonder remains widely ignored on this side of the Atlantic, as well as "Mr Bug goes to town"...(by the way, when will the DVD of this cartoon be released?). No promotion whatesoever; just some VHS very cheep - thus unconvincing for most people - accasional editions could be obtained... a shame!

The present restored edition, accompanied with vintage stuff, such as a brilliant explanation on the making of cartoons is a must have. ... Read more

Reviews (2)

MORE WEIRD CARTOONS
Another excellent compilation of rare cartoons . In this tape :
two more Fleischers' cartoons , " Small Fry " and the surreal
" Betty Boop's crazy inventions " ; one Chuck Jones from the early forties " Inki and the Minah bird " ; one of the best Duffy
Duck's from the second world war period , by Frank Tashlin who would work later with Jerry Lewis directing him in some of his best films ; one silent Walt Disney , " Alice the toreador " ; Pat Sullivan's " Felix the catin non-stop fright " ; one of the first Looney Toons fromthe serie " Bosko " and the jevell of this compilation , a short with animated puppets by Charlie Bowers , a master of stop-motion animation of the early era of the cinema . The only problem of the tape is that some of the prints are not of very good quality . Anyway , I recomend it very much.

Not Politically Correct! (That's a good thing)
Overall the cartoons on this disk are good, definitely not PC.

I do have a few complaints though:

1) The video quality is fairly poor on many cartoons, I'm sure this is mostly because of the age of the cartoons. I suppose this is fairly acceptable.

2) The "feel the sound" fake surround is terrible and annoying. I had to turn off my prologic/AC3 processor and subwoofer just to make it tolerable.

For the most part an OK disk. Valuable from a historical/political standpoint. ... Read more