Cartoon Roots: Otto Messmer's Feline Follies (Blu-ray/DVD Combo)

If you’re a hardcore fan of Felix the Cat, This Blu-Ray is a Must Own. Tommy José Stathes and his Cartoons on Film label did a Phenomenal Job restoring these early Felix Cartoons. As a Animation Enthusiast, It’s truly a magnificent set and I will definitely be buying more from Cartoons on Film.

Tommy José Stathes continues his remarkable work in resurrecting long-lost silent cartoons with this excellent collection of Felix shorts from 1919 to 1923. This Blu-ray/DVD combo package also includes a 1916 short and two "Charley Chaplin" cartoons from Otto Messmer, the true creator of Felix; studio boss Pat Sullivan was incorrectly credited for decades. The transfers are beautifully clean and sharp, but all of the original detail of the drawings is retained. The piano scores by Charlie Judkins are lively, tuneful and appropriate. Stathes and fellow animation buff David Gerstein provide informative booklet notes. This is a splendid package, excellent in every way. These impossibly rare Felix films (not on other collections, as far as I know) have been brought back to full life in this release and are marvelously entertaining.

Along with Thunderbean Animation, Cartoons on Film is one of the best independent companies to restore classic animation. While Thunderbean has restored a wide selection of cartoons, Cartoons on Film mainly focuses on silent cartoons, which I think is very important considering how badly neglected the cartoons tend to be. The picture quality is stellar and I love Felix the Cat, so for me it’s a win win. I highly recommend this Blu Ray. Not only will you be satisfied, you’re doing a huge favor for classic animation as well!

This Blu-ray/DVD combo pack has examples of some of the earliest American films; some over 100 years old. Prior to this set, I had never seen any of the films presented here and I highly doubt I ever would have without this set's existence. The accompanying linear notes are a wonderful bonus on top; adding historical context to these films.Another phenomenal addition to the Cartoons on Film series; extremely high recommendation.

Felix the Cat was the film industry's most popular animated character in the 1920's. Otto Messmer was the animation genius behind that success. Once again, historian / film archivist Tommy Stathes has gathered together a fine set of silent animation -- this time showcasing Mesmer's work from WW I to the mid-20's. These films delighted audiences then.......and still do today.

Some transfers look like they were straight out of a horror film. Other than that, it's a nice Blu Ray.

Another winning set from Cartoons On Film and crew. A great look at the first animated superstar. (It's a cat, not a mouse, people!)Fabulous digital restoration work and copious historical context makes this a winning set.Having gotten this set (and previous ones) I am looking forward to their subsequent releases.

Beautiful collection of rare Felix the Cat cartoons! I’m so happy that we get to watch these in beautiful high definition. Will be sharing with every Felix the cat fan!