Building a Building 1933
"Mickey operates a steam shovel on a busy construction site."
"Building a Building (1933)" is a delightful slice-of-life animated short that captures the chaotic charm of a 1930s construction site through Mickey Mouse's eyes.
Director: David Hand
Cast
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Building a Building (1933) about?
This animated short follows Mickey Mouse as he works a steam shovel on a busy construction site, juggling his job and his crush on Minnie, who delivers lunches. When Pete the foreman steals Mickey's meal, a series of comedic mishaps escalates into a rescue mission where Minnie turns the tables with a clever trick.
Who directed Building a Building?
David Hand, a pioneer in animation, directed Building a Building (1933). Hand later became a key figure at Disney and other studios, known for his work on beloved classics like Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs.
Who stars in Building a Building?
The short features Billy Bletcher as Pete, Walt Disney as Mickey Mouse, and Marcellite Garner as Minnie Mouse—three iconic voices that define its playful energy.
Is Building a Building (1933) worth watching?
With its seven-minute runtime and timeless slapstick comedy, Building a Building is a charming relic of early Disney animation. While it may lack the polish of later shorts, its humor and inventiveness make it a fun watch for fans of vintage cartoons—especially those curious about Mickey's evolution beyond the silent era.
How long is Building a Building?
Building a Building has a runtime of 7 minutes.
About Building a Building (1933) — Mickey's Construction Chaos in Classic Animation
"Building a Building (1933)" is a delightful slice-of-life animated short that captures the chaotic charm of a 1930s construction site through Mickey Mouse's eyes. Directed by David Hand, this seven-minute comedy brims with slapstick energy as Mickey juggles his duties as a steam shovel operator with his growing crush on Minnie, who's busy delivering lunch to the crew. Chaos erupts when Pete, the no-nonsense foreman, steals Mickey's meal, leading to a spirited chase and a hilariously unorthodox rescue. The film's lighthearted tone and expressive animation blend physical comedy with classic Disney whimsy, making it a standout entry in the studio's early catalog.
Set against the backdrop of a bustling worksite, "Building a Building" weaves themes of labor, romance, and resilience into its brief runtime. Mickey's clumsiness and Pete's blustering authority create a dynamic tension that's resolved with a clever twist—one that's both surprising and satisfying. The short's enduring appeal lies in its playful exaggeration of workplace mishaps and the timeless charm of its characters, offering a nostalgic glimpse into early animation techniques and storytelling.