Animated films of the 1920s pushed the boundaries of creativity, experimenting with various techniques and storytelling methods. These films, ranging from whimsical shorts to groundbreaking feature-length masterpieces, reflect a period of innovation and artistic exploration in the world of cinema. As we journey through this list, we’ll discover the early works of legends like Walt Disney and Lotte Reiniger, witness the birth of iconic characters, and observe the pioneering use of technologies and narrative styles that shaped the future of animation. Each film on this list represents a unique contribution to the art form, showcasing the possibilities of animation and its power to captivate audiences. Without further ado, let’s take a look at the ten best animated films of the 1920s.
10. Film Study – Hans Richter (1926)
“Film Study”, directed by Hans Richter, is an experimental animated journey that defies conventional storytelling. The film unveils an array of abstract patterns and shapes, each fluidly transforming and evolving, which collectively create a mesmerizing visual rhythm. Richter’s work does not follow a traditional narrative structure but instead uses these forms to explore movement and perception. This exploration is achieved through a display of geometric forms and contrasting shades, creating a visual narrative that is open to individual interpretation. The absence of a specific plot allows the audience to interpret the visuals in their own unique way, making each viewing experience personal and subjective.
Hans Richter, a prominent figure in the Dada movement, uses “Film Study” to challenge and redefine the boundaries of cinema. Through this avant-garde piece, he steps away from the conventional norms of filmmaking, showcasing a daring and innovative approach. The film’s abstract nature represents a stark departure from the mainstream animations of the era, emphasizing artistic expression over linear storytelling. Its influence extends beyond the realm of animation, impacting various forms of avant-garde art and film. “Film Study” not only demonstrates Richter’s groundbreaking vision but also acts as a catalyst for future experimental filmmakers, inspiring them to think beyond traditional cinematic techniques.
9. Hell’s Bells – Ub Iwerks (1929)
“Hell’s Bells”, directed by Ub Iwerks, is a fantastical animation set in the underworld. This animated short film brings to life a realm where an array of demonic and mythical creatures, each uniquely characterized, engage in a series of whimsical and mischievous escapades. As the plot unfolds, the viewer is taken on a journey through a surreal landscape, which is both captivating and slightly unsettling, and is filled with imaginative interpretations of mythical beings. The narrative, while playful, incorporates themes of chaos and mischief, offering a light-hearted yet thought-provoking exploration of these darker elements.
Ub Iwerks, known for his creativity, showcases his talent in “Hell’s Bells” through innovative character designs and fluid animation. His expertise is evident in the detailed and expressive movements of the characters, bringing an engaging dynamism to each scene. The film is notable for its imaginative use of color and sound, which were pioneering at the time. The vibrant color palette and synchronized sound effects work together to enhance the visual storytelling, making “Hell’s Bells” a standout piece in the era of early color animation. Iwerks’ work in this film has been influential in shaping the direction of animation, particularly in the use of surreal and imaginative landscapes, ensuring its place as one of the best animated films of the 1920s.
8. KoKo’s Earth Control – Dave Fleischer (1928)
In “KoKo’s Earth Control”, directed by Dave Fleischer, the central character, KoKo the Clown, stumbles upon and finds himself in control of a machine that has the power to influence Earth. As he experiments with this newfound power, KoKo’s actions lead to unintended and often humorous consequences. The plot portrays a series of comedic yet chaotic events as KoKo inadvertently triggers natural disasters. These sequences, characterized by their humorous exaggeration, are filled with visual gags and clever animations that depict KoKo’s struggle to manage the overwhelming power at his fingertips. The film balances humor with a subtle commentary on the unforeseen consequences of technological advancement.
Dave Fleischer’s work in this film is proof of his skill in combining comedy with animation, creating a narrative that is as amusing as it is thought-provoking. His innovative approach in combining slapstick humor with an underlying serious theme reflects a sophisticated understanding of the medium. The animation style, marked by fluid movements and expressive characters, was groundbreaking for its time, demonstrating Fleischer’s prowess in pushing the boundaries of early animation techniques. The film remains a significant piece in the history of animation, showcasing early experimentation with themes that are still relevant today.
7. The Haunted House – Walt Disney (1929)
“The Haunted House”, is an animated short by Walt Disney featuring the iconic character Mickey Mouse. In this adventure, Mickey stumbles upon a spooky mansion and, due to a storm, decides to seek shelter inside. As he steps into the mysterious abode, the story unfolds in a series of both humorous and spine-chilling encounters. Each encounter showcases Mickey’s quintessential charm and wit, even as he faces a selection of supernatural beings. These interactions combine comedy with a touch of the macabre, captivating audiences with a playful take on the horror genre, and adding a lighthearted twist to the typical ghost story narrative.
Walt Disney’s pioneering approach to animation is showcased in “The Haunted House.” This film stands out as a creative combination of imaginative storytelling and groundbreaking animation techniques. The film is notable for its synchronization of music and sound effects with the animation, a technique that was revolutionary at the time. This harmonious integration enhances the overall atmospheric tension and comedic timing, significantly contributing to the storytelling. Disney’s ability to combine humor with spooky elements creates a unique viewing experience, making “The Haunted House” one of the best animated films of the 1920s.
6. The Nightingale’s Voice – Wladyslaw Starewicz (1923)
“The Nightingale’s Voice”, directed by Wladyslaw Starewicz, is a captivating stop-motion animation that tells the story of a nightingale whose singing brings joy to a wide array of forest creatures. The nightingale, with its enchanting song, becomes the central figure in the forest, creating a bond with its fellow inhabitants. The nightingale’s interactions with different animals highlights the impact of its melodious voice on the natural world. These interactions showcase a diverse range of forest life, each creature uniquely affected by the nightingale’s song. This harmony is beautifully rendered through Starewicz’s animation style, which breathes life into this woodland setting.
Wladyslaw Starewicz’s pioneering work in stop-motion animation shines in “The Nightingale’s Voice.” His innovative techniques in this early form of animation bring a stunning realism to the film. His skill in bringing inanimate objects to life is evident in the detailed movements and expressions of the characters. Each character is animated with care, resulting in a fluid and naturalistic portrayal of their interactions. The film stands as a remarkable example of early animation techniques, showcasing Starewicz’s creativity and technical mastery. His ability to tell a compelling story through the animation of inanimate objects was a significant achievement in the art of filmmaking for the time.
5. Cinderella – Lotte Reiniger (1922)
In “Cinderella”, Lotte Reiniger presents a visually striking adaptation of the classic fairy tale using silhouette animation. The story follows Cinderella, a young woman who endures the mistreatment of her stepmother and stepsisters. Reiniger’s portrayal of Cinderella captures the essence of her resilience and kindness amidst adversity. Her life takes a magical turn with the help of her fairy godmother, leading to an enchanting experience at a royal ball. This pivotal moment is beautifully realized through the fluid movements of the silhouette characters. Reiniger’s adaptation stays true to the traditional story while giving it a unique aesthetic through her animation style, offering a fresh and imaginative perspective on the beloved tale.
Lotte Reiniger’s innovative use of silhouette animation in “Cinderella” sets it apart as a significant work in the history of animated films. Her pioneering technique, involving hand-cut paper figures meticulously articulated and filmed frame by frame, results in a groundbreaking visual style. The contrast of the silhouettes against the ethereal backgrounds adds a layer of depth and emotion to the storytelling. The fluidity and grace of the animation bring the characters and story to life in a way that is both magical and visually captivating. Reiniger’s “Cinderella” is a timeless retelling of a beloved story, demonstrating the endless possibilities of visual storytelling and making this one of the best animated films of the 1920s.
4. Steamboat Willie – Ub Iwerks (1928)
“Steamboat Willie”, directed by Ub Iwerks, is a landmark film known for introducing Mickey Mouse to the world. This pioneering animation features Mickey in a humorous role as a steamboat captain, where his antics and vivacious personality quickly capture the audience’s affection. In this animated short, Mickey pilots a steamboat, struggling to maintain control while interacting with various characters, including Minnie Mouse. His encounters with these characters are filled with playful and mischievous scenarios, adding depth and charm to the narrative. The film is renowned for its use of synchronized sound, with music and sound effects integrated seamlessly into the action, creating a lively and engaging atmosphere that was revolutionary for its time.
Ub Iwerks’ animation in “Steamboat Willie” represents a pivotal moment in the history of animated films, setting a new standard for the industry. The animation is a blend of inventive visual storytelling and technological advancement, marking a significant leap in the evolution of animated cinema. The film’s success lies not only in its technical innovation with sound but also in its charming character design and engaging storyline. Each frame of “Steamboat Willie” is created with a keen attention to detail, bringing the characters and their world to life with remarkable clarity and expression. “Steamboat Willie” continues to be celebrated for its enduring appeal, solidifying Mickey Mouse as an iconic character in global pop culture.
3. Ghosts Before Breakfast – Hans Richter (1928)
In “Ghosts Before Breakfast”, directed by Hans Richter, the world of the supernatural is explored through an array of surreal and whimsical sequences. This film blurs the line between the animate and inanimate, as it features objects such as hats, bows, and beards coming to life and engaging in bizarre and inexplicable activities. These objects defy the laws of physics and logic, moving in ways that challenge our understanding of the world around us, creating a playful yet perplexing narrative. Richter’s film is a silent work, with the original soundtrack lost, which further enhances its mysterious atmosphere, adding to the dreamlike quality of the animation.
Hans Richter’s avant-garde style in “Ghosts Before Breakfast” exemplifies his unique vision, where he disrupts the norm with his abstract ideas and pushes the boundaries of traditional film techniques. The animation challenges traditional perceptions of reality, using innovative techniques to animate objects in unexpected ways. Richter’s film is celebrated for its imaginative concept and artistic expression, transcending conventional storytelling and ensuring its place as one of the best animated films of the 1920s. It stands as a significant work in the world of experimental cinema, demonstrating the limitless possibilities of animation as a medium for artistic exploration and expression.
2. The Skeleton Dance – Walt Disney (1929)
“The Skeleton Dance”, directed by Walt Disney, is a groundbreaking animated short that stands out for its inventive and humorous portrayal of the supernatural. This early Disney creation brings to life a nocturnal symphony of humor and horror as it features a group of skeletons who, under the moonlit sky, rise from their graves to engage in a series of dance routines. Set in a spooky graveyard, the animation captures the eerie yet whimsical atmosphere, as the skeletons perform synchronized dances and playfully interact with each other and their environment. The clever animation techniques bring each bone and joint to life with a fluidity that adds to the overall charm of the piece. The creative use of visual gags and the skeletons’ antics provide a lighthearted aspect to the film.
Walt Disney’s “The Skeleton Dance” is celebrated for its innovative approach to animation and storytelling. It stands as a pioneering example of how animation can bring the surreal and fantastical to life. The film’s success is attributed to its seamless blend of music, sound effects, and visual comedy. This harmonious integration elevates the narrative, allowing each skeletal movement to resonate with the rhythm, creating a dance that is both eerie and enthralling. Disney’s ability to turn a potentially grim subject into a delightful and entertaining spectacle showcases his mastery in animation. His innovative vision and creative approach to animation are evident in every frame of this timeless piece.
1. The Adventures of Prince Achmed – Lotte Reiniger (1926)
“The Adventures of Prince Achmed,” directed by Lotte Reiniger, is a pioneering animated film and one of the earliest surviving examples of animated storytelling. Reiniger’s groundbreaking work tells a visually mesmerizing tale that revolves around Prince Achmed, who embarks on a fantastical journey filled with magical encounters, including a battle with a wicked sorcerer, a romance with a beautiful princess, and interactions with mythical creatures. Each scene in Achmed’s journey is carefully crafted, blending the fantastical elements of the story with the elegance of Reiniger’s artistic vision. Reiniger’s film, inspired by tales from “One Thousand and One Nights,” is notable for its silhouette animation, a technique that transforms simple black cutouts into a dynamic narrative.
Lotte Reiniger’s artistic genius in “The Adventures of Prince Achmed” lies in her masterful use of silhouette animation, a technique she innovated and perfected. Her pioneering spirit is evident in every frame, as she transforms the traditional art of silhouette cutting into a breathtaking cinematic experience. This film stands as a monumental achievement in the history of animation, not only for its technical brilliance but also for its captivating storytelling. Reiniger’s hand-cut figures move fluidly through elaborately designed scenes, demonstrating her understanding of movement and narrative pacing, making this one of the best animated films of the 1920s.
Summary
To summarise, here are the ten best animated films of the 1920s:
- Film Study – Hans Richter (1926)
- Hell’s Bells – Ub Iwerks (1929)
- KoKo’s Earth Control – Dave Fleischer (1928)
- The Haunted House – Walt Disney (1929)
- The Nightingale’s Voice – Wladyslaw Starewicz (1923)
- Cinderella – Lotte Reiniger (1922)
- Steamboat Willie – Ub Iwerks (1928)
- Ghosts Before Breakfast – Hans Richter (1928)
- The Skeleton Dance – Walt Disney (1929)
- The Adventures of Prince Achmed – Lotte Reiniger (1926)
