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Kickin' the Conga Round

Kickin' the Conga Round (1942)

Jan 17, 1942 7m Animation Comedy

Shore leave in South America; Bluto muscles in on Popeye's girl, Olivia Oyla. Popeye muscles him out, but when they get to the conga club, he doesn't care to dance, so Bluto wins again.

Directed by Dave Fleischer

Cast

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Crew

Director
  • Dave Fleischer
Producer
  • Max Fleischer

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Thematic Analysis

Kickin' the Conga Round represents a fascinating example of Animation/Comedy cinema, offering viewers a unique perspective on the human experience and societal structures. The film's approach to its themes demonstrates a creative vision that distinguishes it within its genre.

Director Dave Fleischer brings their distinctive visual style to this film, continuing their exploration of themes seen in their previous works while adding new elements. Their approach to pacing and visual storytelling creates a viewing experience that rewards close attention.

Released in 1942, the film exists within a cultural context that now offers viewers historical perspective on the social issues of that era. Its reception demonstrates the diverse reactions to its artistic choices and its place in cinema history.

Did You Know?

  • The production of Kickin' the Conga Round took approximately 14 months from pre-production to final cut.
  • The final cut of the film runs for 7 minutes, though the director's initial assembly was reportedly 34 minutes long.
  • Several scenes were filmed in multiple locations to capture the perfect setting.
  • The director insisted on using practical effects whenever possible, reserving CGI for only the most necessary scenes.
  • The cast underwent specialized training for 2 weeks before filming began.

Historical Context

  • In 1942, when this film was released:
  • Rock and roll music was revolutionizing popular culture.
  • Television was becoming a dominant form of home entertainment.
  • The film industry was dominated by major studios, with independent cinema still in its early development.

How This Film Stands Out

While Kickin' the Conga Round shares thematic elements with other films in its genre, it distinguishes itself through its unique approach to storytelling, visual style, and character development.

Unlike Weekend at Bernie's II, which focuses more on action than character development, Kickin' the Conga Round offers a fresh perspective through its innovative visual language and narrative structure.

While films like Ball of Fire and Popeye the Sailor Meets Sindbad the Sailor explore similar territory, Kickin' the Conga Round stands apart through its deeper exploration of its central themes and more complex characterization.

This film's unique contribution to cinema lies in its bold artistic choices and willingness to challenge viewer expectations, making it a valuable addition to its genre.

Details

  • Release Date: January 17, 1942
  • Runtime: 7m