Director's Spotlight
Senior Film Conservator

Director's Spotlight: United States
A Deep Dive into the 1923 Vision of Dave Fleischer
Peeling back the layers of Dave Fleischer's Bed Time exposes the technical innovation that Dave Fleischer introduced to the Animation format. Driven by an uncompromising commitment to Animation excellence, it stands as the definitive 1923 statement on Animation identity.
In Bed Time, Dave Fleischer 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.
While deeply rooted in United States, Bed Time has achieved a global reach, influencing directors from various backgrounds. Its ability to translate Animation tropes into a universal cinematic language is why it remains a cult staple decades after its 1923 release.
| Cinematography | High-Contrast |
| Soundtrack | Synth-Heavy |
| Editing | Rhythmic |
| Art Direction | Naturalist |
Visualizing the convergence of Dave Fleischer's style and the core Animation narrative.
Max goes to bed, leaving Ko-Ko at the peak of a steep mountain. Ko-Ko doesn't stay perched for long, and soon finds himself battling strong winds and upsetting a giant, before entering the real world to exact his revenge on a sleeping Max.
Decades after its release, Bed Time remains a vital piece of the cinematic puzzle. Its influence can be seen in countless modern works, solidifying Dave Fleischer's status as a master of the craft in United States and beyond.