Director's Spotlight
Senior Film Conservator

Director's Spotlight: United States
A Deep Dive into the 1935 Vision of Ben Sharpsteen
When we examine the cinematic landscape of United States, Cock o' the Walk emerges as a landmark work of the enduring legacy of Ben Sharpsteen's artistic contribution to the genre. Through a lens of existential fatalism and Comedy tropes, it captures a specific kind of cinematic magic that is rarely replicated.
In Cock o' the Walk, Ben Sharpsteen pushes the boundaries of conventional narrative. The film's unique approach to its subject matter has sparked endless debates and interpretations among cinephiles and critics alike.
To fully appreciate Cock o' the Walk, one must consider the cinematic climate of 1935. During this period, United States was undergoing significant artistic shifts, and Ben Sharpsteen was at the forefront of this Comedy movement, often challenging established norms.
| Cinematography | Noir-Inspired |
| Soundtrack | Experimental |
| Editing | Elliptical |
| Art Direction | Expressionist |
Visualizing the convergence of Ben Sharpsteen's style and the core Comedy narrative.
The title character comes to town, complete with portable boxing ring. He grabs a local chicken and dances with her, inspiring several other barnyard animals to dance. But her rooster takes offense, and enters the ring to do battle.
Decades after its release, Cock o' the Walk remains a vital piece of the cinematic puzzle. Its influence can be seen in countless modern works, solidifying Ben Sharpsteen's status as a master of the craft in United States and beyond.