The Cat's Canary

About This Movie

So, 'The Cat's Canary' is a striking little gem from 1932, part of Van-Buren's 'Aesop's Sound Fables' series, which is often overlooked. The animation has that raw, quirky charm typical of early 30s cartoons—there’s a sort of wild energy to it. The story follows a Brooklyn cat, donned in a bowler hat, who surprisingly captures a canary and swallows it whole. It’s not just about the gag; this cat's ribcage becomes a fluttering cage, which provides a bizarre twist on the usual cat-and-bird theme. The pacing feels loose, almost dreamlike, and there’s a certain dark humor that’s characteristic of pre-code animation. The practical effects, limited as they might be, add to that unique vibe, making it a distinctive piece for collectors who appreciate the oddities of early animation.

This title is relatively scarce, as Van-Buren films often are, with many falling into obscurity after the studio's closure. A few prints circulate among collectors, but finding a well-preserved version can be a challenge. Collectors are drawn to its peculiar narrative and the early animation style, making it an interesting piece for those focusing on pre-code cinema or the evolution of animated storytelling.