Hoppity Pop

About This Movie

Hoppity Pop is quite an intriguing piece from 1946, really. It’s one of those films that feels like a vivid dream, with its colored shapes dancing chaotically to the calliope music—a sound that’s both nostalgic and a bit unsettling. The animation technique, drawn directly onto the film by Norman McLaren, gives it this raw, tactile quality that really stands out. You can see the imperfections, and it adds to the charm. There’s a sense of whimsy, sure, but also a hint of dissonance in the visuals and the soundtrack that keeps you on your toes. It doesn’t follow a traditional narrative, which makes it feel more like an experience than a story, unique in its approach to animation and sound.

Hoppity Pop has a certain rarity that collectors often find appealing, given its unique animation technique and the fact that it was created in a post-war era when experimental art was gaining traction. Its format history is limited, primarily existing in a few prints, which adds to its scarcity in the collector’s market. As for interest, there's a niche group of enthusiasts who appreciate McLaren’s distinctive style, making copies of this film sought after by those who admire early animation experimentation.