As the Twig Is Bent
L.C. Shumway has a dual role in this action-packed three-reeler. When the Booths divorce, their twin children (both played as adults by Shumway) are separated -- George goes with his mother and becomes a fine, upstanding young man, while Herbert takes after his father's dissolute ways. Both of them wind up serving in the Army and going to the Philippines -- George as an officer and West Point graduate, and Herbert as a lowly enlisted man who soon deserts to becomes the drunken love slave of a native girl.
Insights
Plot Summary
This animated short film depicts a young boy observing a tree and then imagining it growing and changing over time, culminating in a whimsical and surreal transformation. The narrative explores themes of growth and imagination through a series of imaginative visual gags.
Critical Reception
As a pioneering work in animation from Émile Cohl, 'As the Twig Is Bent' is historically significant for its early exploration of stop-motion and drawn animation techniques. While specific contemporary critical reviews are scarce, its place in animation history is well-regarded for its inventiveness and playful spirit.
What Reviewers Say
- Historically important as an early animated short.
- Showcases Émile Cohl's innovative animation techniques.
- A charming and imaginative visual experiment.
Google audience: Due to its age and niche status, there are no readily available Google user reviews for 'As the Twig Is Bent'.
Fun Fact
Émile Cohl is often considered one of the fathers of animation, and 'As the Twig Is Bent' is an early example of his pioneering work in the field, predating many more famous animated shorts.
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