Smokey Smokes

About This Movie

So, 'Smokey Smokes' is a curious little piece from 1920. It's an animated short that plays with the whimsical vibe typical of the era but with its own quirky flair. The pacing is brisk, really moving from one scene to the next, and the visuals lean heavily into expressive character designs that might remind you of early silent comedies, just animated. The themes are lighthearted, often poking fun at smoking habits, which is interesting given today's context. The animation itself, while rudimentary by today's standards, has a charm—there's a tangible quality to the hand-drawn frames. It's like looking into a time capsule of early animation experimentation. Not much is known about the director, which adds a layer of intrigue to its history.

'Smokey Smokes' remains somewhat elusive in the collector's market, with few prints floating around, making it an interesting find for animation enthusiasts. Various formats have existed over the years, but original reels are particularly scarce, as many have deteriorated or been lost. This short's blend of humor and early animation techniques appeals to collectors who appreciate the evolution of animated storytelling.