Max Fleischer Universe: Betty Boop’s “Little Pal”

Max Fleischer Universe: Betty Boop’s “Little Pal” (1934, d. Dave Fleischer) I am here to sing the praises of Max Fleischer’s September 1934 animation gem “Betty Boop’s Little Pal”, which introduced the character of Pudgy the Pup. Pudgy, like Betty, was a pos... Read full article

"My little pal Gallagher": Platinum Blonde (1931)

When I heard about Platinum Blonde, I was intrigued. Jean Harlow directed by Frank Capra in a pre-Code comedy? Yes, please! But then I actually saw the film. I was expecting Harlow to be her typical self—brassy, seductive, funny, gorgeous… So, I was confused when it turned out that Jean ... Read full article

Poverty Row April: Little Pal (A.K.A. The Healer)

There have not been that many selections thus far this April. It has become an impromptu Mickey Rooney tribute as well. This film is a decent, if ham-fisted tale of a doctor who is an idealist and loses his way. There are pretty big lulls but holds interest a lot better than most of these films do. ... Read full article