
Puttin on the Act 1940
Step right up to this vintage 1940 cartoon short from legendary animator Dave Fleischer, where Popeye and Olive Oyl dust off their vaudeville act to welcome the return of live variety entertainment.
Director: Dave Fleischer
Cast

Frequently Asked Questions
What is Puttin on the Act (1940) about?
The 1940 short follows Popeye and Olive Oyl as they rehearse their old vaudeville act for an upcoming show. Their performance features Popeye's strength displays, Olive's acrobatic finesse, and spot-on impressions of classic comedians like Jimmy Durante and Groucho Marx.
Who directed Puttin on the Act?
The film was directed by Dave Fleischer, a pioneer of animation known for his innovative shorts and collaborations with brother Max Fleischer.
Who stars in Puttin on the Act?
The cartoon stars Jack Mercer as the voice of Popeye and Margie Hines as Olive Oyl.
Is Puttin on the Act (1940) worth watching?
Though unrated on IMDb, this six-minute Fleischer gem offers instant nostalgia and sharp comedic timing. Fans of vintage animation and Popeye's antics will appreciate its concise, energetic homage to vaudeville culture.
How long is Puttin on the Act?
The short runs for exactly six minutes.
About Puttin' on the Act (1940) — Popeye and Olive revive vaudeville in this Fleischer Studios classic
Step right up to this vintage 1940 cartoon short from legendary animator Dave Fleischer, where Popeye and Olive Oyl dust off their vaudeville act to welcome the return of live variety entertainment. The six-minute film sparkles with playful nostalgia, blending slapstick bravado with impish charm as Popeye flexes his spinach-powered muscles and Olive twirls through gravity-defying feats. Between spot-on impressions of 1940s comedy icons and show-stopping routines, this miniature stage spectacular captures the joyful chaos of old-school vaudeville in just six glorious minutes.
Directed with the same kinetic energy that defined the Fleischer Studios' signature style, Puttin' on the Act delivers quick-witted gags and sprightly satire while celebrating the unshakable appeal of timeless entertainment. Packed with musical interludes and lightning-fast physical comedy, it's a tiny treasure trove of animation history that feels as fresh today as it must have felt eight decades ago.