What a Life 1932
Dive into the zany world of Ub Iwerks' *What a Life (1932)*, a 7-minute animated short that blends slapstick chaos with early 20th-century street-life grit.
Director: Ub Iwerks
Frequently Asked Questions
What is What a Life (1932) about?
This animated short follows two musicians whose day takes a bizarre turn after a tramp swaps their hats with a flea-covered one. Their troubles escalate at a diner when a sentient hamburger wreaks havoc, leading them to sell their instruments for food—and face the harsh reality of a blind beggar on the street.
Who directed What a Life?
Ub Iwerks, the legendary animator and early Disney collaborator, directed *What a Life*. Iwerks was also the co-creator of Mickey Mouse and a pioneer in animation techniques.
Who stars in What a Life?
Director information is not available.
Is What a Life (1932) worth watching?
*What a Life* isn't just a time capsule of early animation—it's a brisk, inventive short packed with humor and heart. While it lacks modern CGI polish, its surreal gags and social edge make it a fascinating watch for animation fans and classic-film buffs.
How long is What a Life?
What a Life runs for approximately 7 minutes.
About What a Life (1932) — The Wild, Whimsical Short That Defined Early Animation
Dive into the zany world of Ub Iwerks' *What a Life (1932)*, a 7-minute animated short that blends slapstick chaos with early 20th-century street-life grit. This black-and-white gem follows a pair of struggling musicians whose day spirals into absurdity: from a hat-swapping tramp to a sentient hamburger causing diner pandemonium, the film thrives on surreal humor and social commentary. The duo's quest for survival—selling their instruments to buy food—collides with a stark encounter with poverty, as they witness a blind beggar on the sidewalk. Director Ub Iwerks, a pioneer of animation and early Disney collaborator, crafts a surreal, fast-paced romp that feels decades ahead of its time, balancing whimsy with a touch of melancholy.
What a Life (1932) captures the relentless, often cruel humor of the Great Depression era, where even a simple meal isn't guaranteed. The film's minimal runtime belies its impact, packing in visual gags and a surprisingly poignant undertone about resilience and hardship. With its distinctive animation style and unpredictable storytelling, *What a Life* stands as a testament to Ub Iwerks' inventive spirit and the golden age of early animation.