The Jam Makers

About This Movie

The Jam Makers, a 1919 animation, captures a simpler time in animation history. It features Bud and Susie, two siblings, navigating the whimsical world of jam-making. The art style, very much a product of its era, shows a charming hand-drawn quality that’s quite distinct from today’s digital animations. The pacing is leisurely, allowing viewers to soak in the playful antics and visual gags typical of early animation. There's a certain innocence in the characters that reflects the time, and the practical effects, while rudimentary by modern standards, add a layer of warmth and nostalgia. It's fascinating to see how these early shorts set the groundwork for the animated series we enjoy today.

The Jam Makers is a rarity in the collector's world, given its age and the fact that it stems from Paramount's early foray into animation with Frank Moser. There aren’t many surviving prints, and the one at the New Zealand Film Archive is particularly intriguing for its historical value. Collectors often appreciate the unique charm and simplicity of these early works, marking them as important pieces in the evolution of animated storytelling.