The Fantastic Flying Books of Mr. Morris Lessmore

"Inspired, in equal measures, by Hurricane Katrina, Buster Keaton, The Wizard of Oz, and a love for books, The Fantastic Flying Books of Mr. Morris Lessmore is a story of people who devote their lives to books and books who return the favor."

That Buster Keaton influence sure is clear, from the look and disposition of the central character to the windstorm that combines Steamboat Bill, Jr. with L. Frank Baum.

The Fantastic Flying Books of Mr. Morris Lessmore is utterly charming, and also one of the five animated short films now up for an Oscar.


The Fantastic Flying Books of Mr. Morris Lessmore from Moonbot Studios on Vimeo.

Bugs Bunny: 70 years old and only one gray hare

Here's a bushel of carrots saying Happy 70th Birthday to Bugs Bunny, whose screen debut in the Warner Brothers animated short "A Wild Hare" occurred on July 27, 1940. Tex Avery directed.

I base my life on his teachings.



Also appearing for the first time on 7/27/40: the Billboard song charts.

Great combos: Max and Dave Fleischer + Betty Boop + the Giant Floating Head of Louis Armstrong

Alert: 1932 racial stereotyping (and not just a little bit either). Still, what a meet-up of talents!