Customers Wanted 1939
In this classic 1939 animated short, Popeye and Bluto engage in a lively rivalry as owners of competing penny arcades, each vying to attract the famously frugal customer, Wimpy.
Director: Dave Fleischer
Cast
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Customers Wanted (1939) about?
This animated short follows Popeye and Bluto as they operate rival penny arcades, desperate to win over Wimpy, the ever-hungry customer who's more than happy to spend a penny today with promises to pay later. The competition escalates into a series of over-the-top gags, all centered around their exaggerated attempts to reel in Wimpy.
Who directed Customers Wanted?
Customers Wanted was directed by Dave Fleischer, a pioneering animator and studio head whose work shaped the golden age of American animation.
Who stars in Customers Wanted?
The short stars Jack Mercer as Popeye, Margie Hines as Olive Oyl, and Pinto Colvig as both Bluto and Wimpy.
Is Customers Wanted (1939) worth watching?
With its rapid-fire humor, classic Fleischer animation, and the timeless appeal of Popeye and Bluto, this seven-minute short is a delight for animation fans and nostalgia lovers alike. While it may lack the depth of longer features, its clever gags and retro charm make it a worthwhile watch for fans of vintage comedy.
How long is Customers Wanted?
Customers Wanted runs for 7 minutes.
About Customers Wanted (1939) — Popeye and Bluto's Penny Arcade Showdown in Classic Animation
In this classic 1939 animated short, Popeye and Bluto engage in a lively rivalry as owners of competing penny arcades, each vying to attract the famously frugal customer, Wimpy. With his signature catchphrase looming large, Wimpy's promise to "pay Tuesday for a penny today" drives the duo to desperate measures, showcasing the hilarious lengths they'll go to win his business. Directed by animation legend Dave Fleischer, this seven-minute comedy brims with the infectious energy and quirky charm that defined the Fleischer Studios era.
The film's humor thrives on the absurdity of the competition, as Popeye and Bluto bombard potential patrons with exaggerated, recycled clips of their own adventures—each one a meta-joke about the very nature of animation and storytelling. Set against the backdrop of a bustling mid-century arcade, the short delivers a nostalgic yet timeless appeal, blending slapstick wit with the iconic personalities of Popeye and Bluto. Expect rapid-fire gags, a dash of rivalry, and plenty of that classic Fleischer flair.