Here's a shot of Ben Solomon (more on him here and here) that was clipped from a 1939 group photo of the Johnson crew taken at the Fleischer's Miami studio. (I'll post the complete photo at a future date) Note he has autographed his name beside his picture in light blue pen.
Biography from Fleischer's Animated News
Following is a clip of Solomon's animation from a fan favorite and arguably one of the best Popeye cartoons produced by the Famous Studio - 'We're on Our Way to Rio' . (de facto directed by Jim Tyer)
Lois Grabash - if you're reading this could you please contact me through my email address in the About Me section.
I'm looking forward to seeing the rest of that photo.
ReplyDeleteI wouldn't argue that 'Rio' is one of the best Famous'
ReplyDeleteI like the multiple leg action when Popeye dances.
ReplyDeleteThis has nothing to do with the topic at hand, but the band members in that clip give me the creeps.
I kind of thought it may have been a custom stamp Solomon used to affix his signature. I've seen this used in some contemporary studios.
ReplyDeleteI LOVE how Popeye spins as he falls at the end. I'd never be able to get away with that on a show!
ReplyDeleteI worked with Ben at Topps for many years and would upon occasion try to get him to talk about his animation & comic book days.. he was usually pretty reluctant. He was clearly tickled though when I showed him the anecdote that Shamus Culhane wrote about him in TALKING ANIMALS. He clearly had alot of respect for Shamus.
ReplyDeletePopeye v1 is showing up very cheaply at Big Lots:
ReplyDeletehttp://www.animationshow.com/forums/index.php?showtopic=4361