Felix The Cat is one old feline, dating back to November of 1919 when he first appeared across the silver screen in “Feline Follies.” Until the advent of Disney’s Mickey Mouse, this mischievous feline was the world’s most popular cartoon character. Actually his origins are somewhat in dispute as both Australian cartoonist, Pat Sullivan and American animator Otto Messmer not only claim to have created him, but oddly enough the evidence seems to support both claims. It is likely that Messmer ghost-created Felix. It is known however, that Felix emerged to face the world from the Sullivan Studio. He was a welcome change to the cardboard silent stars with his fun-loving nature and endearing spirit, and he appeared in more than 150 cartoons in the silent era alone!
When his screen career began to fade in the 1930s, Felix spent a few years enchanting fans in comic strips and books. Some of these classics included, “Felix in Hollywood” (1923), “Felix Switches Witches” (1927) and “Comicalamities” (1928). His black body, white eyes, giant grin and surrealistic antics were unmistakable, and he became the first cartoon character to draw audiences on the power of his star persona. He went on to star on television in the 1950s, cementing his immortality. Some creative changes have occurred over time, notably Felix’s “Magic Bag of Tricks” which changed shape according to Felix’s needs. But he remained the same enchanting, well-loved and feisty kitty cat.
Felix the cat has been called a “symbol of a child’s sense of wonder, creating the fantastic when it isn’t there and taking it in stride when it is.” He is usually depicted pacing deep in thought with his head down, and his hands behind his back. His tail, which can become anything from a shovel to a pencil, translates into the subliminal message that anything at all can happen in the world.
In 1991, Felix starred in his first and only feature film, “Felix The Cat: The Movie,” The film did not fare well and in 1995, Felix returned (with his tail somewhat between his legs) to the world of television. He appeared in a series called “The Twisted Tales of Felix The Cat.” A new wave of Felix merchandising followed with everything from mugs to videos.
There has been a renewed interest in Felix’s early career and original footage has been converted for both the VHS and DVD markets.
How do YOU feel about Felix the Cat? Pease share your experiences.
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