For the third class, I was happy that we learned about the creation of the character, Felix the Cat. I used to watch the modern adaptations of Felix the Cat as a child. It is really interesting to see how character animation was from the early years and looking at it now. Especially with the discussion’s focus with the works of Fleischer studios. It also showed the start of using rotoscope as another technique for animating. In fact the use of rotoscoping really added to the films Max and Dave Fleischer were creating. They mainly made use of this technique for their character “Koko the Clown.” Which was showcased in the animation, The Tantalizing Fly (1919).
My favorite use of this technique was for Betty Boop: Snow White (1933), because of the scene where Koko the Clown sings “St. James Infirmary Blues.” This song was performed by Cab Calloway, who was a singer, dancer and a bandleader. The rotoscope was used for the dance segment Koko the Clown performed. Cab Calloway was known, not only for his music, but also for his unique dance moves. These were rotoscoped in the film and were really captivating to watch both in real life and in animation.
Julia Reymundo
ANIM223 - HISTORY OF ANIMATION - FALL 2019 