4.8/10
Senior Film Conservator

A definitive 4.8/10 rating for a film that redefined the boundaries of cult cinema. Scrappy's Camera Trouble remains a cornerstone of transgressive art.
If you like old-school animation that leans into pure, unadulterated slapstick, you’ll probably get a kick out of this. It’s short, it’s loud, and it doesn't try to be anything but a quick laugh. If you are looking for deep character arcs or a complex plot, you should probably skip it and watch The Artist instead.
The whole premise is just Scrappy trying to document his dog, Yippie. Honestly, Yippie is the most patient cartoon dog in existence. I’ve seen more chaotic energy in Dinky Doodle in the Army, but there’s something relatable about the specific frustration of trying to frame a picture.
The brother character is the literal worst. You know the type. He just pops up exactly when you don't want him there. There is a moment where he leans into the frame with this grin that feels like it lasts for an eternity. It’s almost impressive how annoying he manages to be in such a small amount of screen time. 🙄
It’s not a masterpiece. It’s just a snapshot of a kid being a brat and a dog being a dog. Sometimes that’s enough. The scene where the camera finally ends up in pieces felt a bit inevitable. You could see the setup coming a mile away, but that’s kind of the charm, right?
It’s fine for a few minutes of distraction. Don't overthink it. It’s definitely more lighthearted than the heavy drama in La belle Russe. Grab a snack, turn off your brain, and watch a dog get pestered. 📸