Admission Free

About This Movie

Admission Free (1932) captures that whimsical, playful essence of early animation, with Koko the Clown and Bimbo navigating the bustling energy of Betty Boop's penny arcade. The film plays with the boundaries of a shooting gallery, where Bimbo's intentions lean toward flirtation, yet quickly spirals into a chaotic hunting escapade. The tone dances between lightheartedness and that slapstick chaos of the era, giving it a unique rhythm you don’t often see in later animations. The vibrant, almost surreal atmosphere created by the hand-drawn animations and clever practical effects makes this short quite the gem in the animation landscape of its time. It’s a nice little snapshot of how these characters interacted in the early days, reflecting the cultural zeitgeist of the early '30s.

Admission Free remains somewhat obscure in the collector's realm, often overshadowed by more recognized titles featuring Betty Boop. Its scarcity in original format has piqued interest among enthusiasts of early animation, particularly those focused on the Fleischer Studios' output. Variants in print quality can be drastic, and collectors often seek the clearest preservation available. The film captures a transitional period in animation, making it a noteworthy study for those interested in the evolution of the medium.