Treasure Jest

About This Movie

So, 'Treasure Jest' from 1945 is this quirky little piece of animation that takes you on a playful adventure. The story centers around a clever fox who's on a treasure hunt, only to be duped by a sly crow. The animation style, while not groundbreaking, has a certain charm with its hand-drawn characters that really pop against the backgrounds. You can feel the pacing is intentional, building tension as the fox follows this ridiculous trail of fake gold. The humor is quite light-hearted, and there's this underlying theme of gullibility that runs throughout. It’s not often discussed, but the way it uses simple practical effects to depict the treasure hunting adds a unique layer to its storytelling.

Treasure Jest isn't the most common find in collector circles, partly due to its age and the obscurity of its director. It was released in a time when animation was still finding its footing, so prints of this film are often scarce. Many collectors appreciate it for its nostalgic charm and the offbeat humor that defines its plot. If you're lucky enough to find a copy on 16mm or even a DVD release, it often sparks conversations among fellow collectors about the evolution of animated storytelling.