Julius wins a bronc-riding contest at the rodeo. However, Pete steals his prize money, so Julius must go after him to get it back.

United States

Is 'Alice at the Rodeo' worth watching today? Short answer: yes, but with significant caveats. This early Walt Disney short is an essential historical document for animation enthusiasts and film historians, offering a unique window into the formative years of a cinematic giant, but it is decidedly not for those seeking...

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Comparing the cinematic DNA and archive impact of two defining moments in cult history.

Walt Disney

Ralph Ince
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"Alice at the Rodeo" plunges its titular live-action protagonist into a vibrant, if chaotic, animated Western landscape. Here, her resourceful feline companion, Julius, emerges victorious from a thrilling bronc-riding contest, only for his hard-earned prize money to be unscrupulously snatched by the recurring antagonist, Pete. This act of cartoonish larceny ignites a spirited, often frantic, pursuit across the rodeo grounds, compelling Julius to reclaim his rightful winnings through sheer animated determination. It’s a foundational narrative of triumph, betrayal, and a spirited chase, emblematic of the nascent charm and kinetic energy that defined the pioneering Alice Comedies.
"Is 'Alice at the Rodeo' worth watching today? Short answer: yes, but with significant caveats. This early Walt Disney short is an essential historical document for animation enthusiasts and film historians, offering a unique window into the formative years of a cinematic giant, but it is decidedly not for those seeking modern narrative complexity, sophisticated character development, or high-fidelity visuals. As a critic, I approach films not just for their entertainment value, but for their pla..."


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