Movie spotlight
The Untamable Whiskers
The background of this picture represents a scene along the beautiful river Seine in Paris. A gentleman enters, and taking a blackboard from the side of the picture, he draws on it a sketch of a novelist. Then, standing in the centre, he causes the living features of his sketch to appear in the place of his own, which is utterly devoid of whiskers. The change is made so mysteriously that the eye cannot notice it until one sees quite another person in the place of the first. Again another sketch is shown on the board, this one being that of a miser; then an English cockney; a comic character; a French policeman, and last of all, the grinning visage of Mephistopheles. It is almost impossible to give this film a more definite description; suffice it to say that it is something entirely new in motion pictures and is sure to please. (Méliès Catalog)
Insights
Plot Summary
This early animated short depicts a man struggling with an unruly mustache that takes on a life of its own. The animated facial hair causes chaos and comedic mishaps as it tangles with objects and irritates its owner. The man's attempts to tame his rebellious whiskers only lead to further pandemonium, culminating in a surreal and humorous display.
Critical Reception
As an extremely early example of animation, 'The Untamable Whiskers' is primarily appreciated for its historical significance and pioneering spirit. While modern critical analysis is scarce, contemporary viewers and historians of animation recognize its innovative use of drawn animation to create surreal and comedic effects, laying groundwork for future animated storytelling.
What Reviewers Say
A pioneering example of early hand-drawn animation.
Humorous and surreal visual gags.
Historically significant for its innovative animation techniques.
Google audience: Due to its age and niche status, specific Google user reviews are not readily available. However, as a foundational piece of animation history, it is generally viewed with appreciation for its inventiveness.
Awards & Accolades
None notable.
Fun Fact
Émile Cohl is often considered one of the fathers of animation, and 'The Untamable Whiskers' is one of his earliest and most celebrated experimental films, predating even Walt Disney's early work by decades.
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