Director's Spotlight
Senior Film Conservator

Director's Spotlight: United States
A Deep Dive into the 1929 Vision of Dave Fleischer
Exploring the Family underpinnings of Ko-Ko's Hypnotism leads us to the stylistic boundaries pushed by Dave Fleischer during the production. Through a lens of existential fatalism and Family tropes, it continues to spark endless debates among critics and cinephiles alike.
In Ko-Ko's Hypnotism, 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.
The visual language of Ko-Ko's Hypnotism is defined by its use of shadows and framing, a hallmark of Dave Fleischer's style. By utilizing a 1929-era palette, the film creates an immersive experience that perfectly complements its Family themes.
| Cinematography | Static |
| Soundtrack | Experimental |
| Editing | Elliptical |
| Art Direction | Expressionist |
Visualizing the convergence of Dave Fleischer's style and the core Family narrative.
A live-action amateur hypnotist mesmerizes Koko the clown and Fitz the dog; but a witch teaches them how to take their revenge...
Decades after its release, Ko-Ko's Hypnotism 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.