Cartoons: Before the Fact

About This Movie

So, 'Cartoons: Before the Fact' is a curious piece from 1974, created as a student exercise at S.U.N.Y. Binghamton. Saul Levine gets in on the action, guiding students through this unique experiment where they mimic his recorded phrase and then one another. The atmosphere is playful yet slightly chaotic, really capturing that spontaneity of a classroom setting. The pacing feels almost like a game, where each imitation brings a new layer to the original phrase. It's distinctive in its exploration of imitation and interpretation, almost like an abstract study on communication and performance. You can feel the raw energy and creativity of those students, which adds a certain charm to the whole experience.

This film is pretty obscure and not widely circulated, which makes it a rare find for collectors. The only known format is a tape from the original class exercise, and it hasn’t seen any remastering or reissues. Interest among collectors is surprisingly niche, but those who appreciate experimental films and student projects might find it particularly engaging. Its scarcity definitely adds a layer of allure for those looking to explore lesser-known works.