Director's Spotlight
Senior Film Conservator

Director's Spotlight: United States
A Deep Dive into the 1923 Vision of Otto Messmer
Exploring the Animation underpinnings of Felix Strikes It Rich leads us to the uncompromising vision of Otto Messmer that defines this Animation masterpiece. Melding the raw energy of United States with a global Animation appeal, it echoes the profound changes occurring in United States during that era.
In Felix Strikes It Rich, Otto Messmer 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.
In this work, Otto Messmer explores the intersection of Animation and United States cultural identity. The meticulous attention to detail suggests a deep-seated commitment to pushing the boundaries of the medium, ensuring that Felix Strikes It Rich remains a relevant topic of study for Animation enthusiasts.
| Cinematography | Handheld |
| Soundtrack | Minimalist |
| Editing | Disjunctive |
| Art Direction | Baroque |
Visualizing the convergence of Otto Messmer's style and the core Animation narrative.
Felix organizes a dance contest for hens, but runs afoul of the chicken farmer because the hens aren't meeting their egg quotas. The farmer captures Felix and makes him dig his own grave before he "does him in", but at the last moment an unexpected event results in Felix avoiding his death sentence.
Decades after its release, Felix Strikes It Rich remains a vital piece of the cinematic puzzle. Its influence can be seen in countless modern works, solidifying Otto Messmer's status as a master of the craft in United States and beyond.