Ferdinand the Bull: 1938 Disney Cartoon Based on Book

Here’s an Oscar-winning short from Disney that is based on a popular children’s book, The Story of Ferdinand, by Munro Leaf with illustrations by Robert Lawson.  Ferdinand the bull would much rather sit under his favorite tree smelling the flowers than do anything serious.  But he gets caught up in the bull-fighting business and hilarity ensues when he tries to enjoy his favorite pastime in the ring.

Get The Story of Ferdinand

Noteboek: A Tricky Hand-Drawn Live-Action Film

Noteboek is one of those films that illustrate what personal filmmaking is. It’s an artist’s hand-made, direct expression. Evelien Lohbeck is the performer and animator in this little gem. There’s something a little Chaplin-like in her clever tricks with drawings and food. I love the part where she’s reflected in the drawing in her notebook. This is really excellent and gently humorous work.