The Grasshopper and the Ant
The Grasshopper and the Ant

Movie spotlight

The Grasshopper and the Ant

1935
Movie
11 min
Russian

An animated film about a hard-working ant and a lazy dragonfly. While the ant was transporting building materials to a multi-level anthill in a truck, the dragonfly was basking in the sun in its manger.

Insights

IMDb7.1/10
Director: Wilfred JacksonGenres: Animation, Family, Fantasy, Short, Musical

Plot Summary

In this animated adaptation of Aesop's fable, a grasshopper spends his summer singing and playing while a diligent ant works tirelessly to prepare for winter. As the seasons change and the ant has a well-stocked larder, the grasshopper finds himself cold and hungry. The ant, after initially being tempted to deny the grasshopper aid, ultimately shows compassion and shares her provisions, teaching a nuanced lesson about kindness.

Critical Reception

This Silly Symphony short is widely regarded as a classic of early Disney animation, praised for its charming characters, vibrant visuals, and touching moral. It's often cited as one of the more sophisticated and emotionally resonant shorts produced during this era, offering a gentle yet impactful message.

What Reviewers Say

  • Praised for its warm animation and adherence to the fable's moral.

  • Often highlighted for its musical numbers and character interactions.

  • Appreciated for its portrayal of both hard work and the virtue of compassion.

Google audience: While specific Google user ratings are not readily available for this classic short, general audience reception has been overwhelmingly positive, with many viewers recalling it fondly from childhood for its engaging storytelling and memorable characters.

Fun Fact

The original fable by Aesop has a much harsher ending where the ant refuses to help the grasshopper, who then dies of starvation. Disney's adaptation softens this ending to emphasize kindness and generosity.

AI-generated overview · Verify ratings on official sources

My Review