by Jake Bourgeois, Contributing Writer
I’ve always had a soft spot for animation. More years than not, at least a couple of animated features find their way onto my top 10 list. So, I’m setting out to shine a light on some films that may have passed you by. The idea with Animation Celebration is to take a look at some underseen gems — so no Toy Story or Frozen here.
Let’s get started.
When I initially started this series, a well I did not envision myself dipping into this often is animated shorts. However, it’s a medium that rarely bubbles to the surface, and it offers an opportunity for some experimental work. Add a famous name to the mix, and the latter lens becomes even more intriguing.
Before Sesame Street or The Muppet Show, back when he was just getting started with his puppet characters on Sam and Friends and that show was nearing its end, Jim Henson went through a creative stretch where he pumped out a series of shorts — including a few animated in nature. (All currently streaming either on YouTube or MUBI.)
What do they show us of an American creative icon?
Cat and Mouse (1960)
Short and simple, the tale illustrates a chase that everyone is familiar with — cat versus mouse. It’s a simple story, but one told in an interesting manner. The hand-drawn characters and action has almost a Pink Panther credits feel to it that I really enjoyed. It’s fun and sly in its presentation. Adding to that feeling is jazz drummer Chico Hamilton’s music over the entire proceeding. Simple, but entertaining.
Shearing Animation (1961)
Utilizing the same Hamilton score as the previous entry, this second short trades narrative storytelling for bright, engaging colors. Though I profess I prefer — by a slim margin — the more narrative structure of the previous short to this one, Henson always had an eye for how to utilize bright colors in his work. Though what’s on the screen is nothing more than shapes and colors, he’s able to utilize the medium to be engaging enough for its minute-long run time.
Drums West (1961)
My favorite of the three shorts utilizing Hamilton’s jazz drumming is also the longest. This short utilizes Henson’s creativity the best. Set on a black background, he utilizes simple color paper like fireworks. Each drumbeat and clash of cymbals is accentuated in a way that takes advantage of the music at the heart of the short. It’s certainly a simple premise, but nonetheless shows just what Henson could do with music — a through line that would certainly continue with his popular puppets. The quick behind-the-scenes sneak peak at the end is a fun bonus as well.
Alexander the Grape (1965)
My favorite of these Henson shorts is not only his newest, but also the one that technically went unfinished. Utilizing the same cut-paper animation seen in Drums West, Henson tells the story of the titular grape who longs to be a watermelon, but finds the produce isn’t always greener on the other side. The trials and tribulations of Alexander as he goes on his transformative journey had me feeling nostalgic. Despite its unfinished nature, you can see the DNA of what would become the Muppets in a fable taken to the ridiculous. It wouldn’t be Henson’s last foray into anthropomorphized fruit, and the fact that it feels familiar is what makes this such a joy. Besides, who doesn’t love a good title pun?
These shorts are a fascinating insight into Henson’s early creative efforts and combined will take roughly 10 minutes of your time. Even if you don’t take time to check these out, many creators started on shorts before making the jump to feature-length projects. It could be a quick, easy way to get some new perspective on some of your favorites.
I’m excited to continue to geek out on some great animated work you may not have had a chance to catch. Next month, what would I say if I told you there was an animated film from the ‘60s with Aristocats vibes, directed by a Looney Tunes veteran, and starring Judy Garland?
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