It's a Living Poster

It's a Living 1957

6 min📅 1957-11-16

In the playful world of 1950s animation, *It's a Living (1957)* follows the amusing misadventures of Dinky, a once-thriving cartoon star who swaps his creative roots for the glamorous—if shallow—world of television commercials.

Director: Gene Deitch

Cast

Allen Swift
Allen Swift
(voice)

Frequently Asked Questions

What is It's a Living (1957) about?

*It's a Living* follows Dinky, a beloved cartoon character who leaves the animated world behind to become the face of a TV commercial. His journey highlights the humorous disconnect between artistic passion and corporate demands, all wrapped in the playful style of mid-century animation.

Who directed It's a Living?

*It's a Living* was directed by the acclaimed animator Gene Deitch, known for his innovative work in classic cartoon shorts and his contributions to the golden age of animation.

Who stars in It's a Living?

The film stars Allen Swift, who provides the voice and personality for Dinky in this charming animated short.

Is It's a Living (1957) worth watching?

While *It's a Living* is a brief six-minute short, it offers a nostalgic peek into 1950s animation and a clever, if lighthearted, take on commercialization in media. Fans of vintage cartoons or Gene Deitch's work will likely find it charming, though its appeal may be niche for modern audiences.

How long is It's a Living?

The runtime for *It's a Living* is 6 minutes.

About It's a Living (1957) — A 1950s Animated Short About Selling Out

In the playful world of 1950s animation, *It's a Living (1957)* follows the amusing misadventures of Dinky, a once-thriving cartoon star who swaps his creative roots for the glamorous—if shallow—world of television commercials. Directed by the inventive Gene Deitch, this six-minute short blends sharp wit with the golden-age charm of classic animation, poking fun at the evolving entertainment landscape where big business meets quirky creativity. The film's breezy atmosphere and satirical tone make it a delightful time capsule of mid-century pop culture, blending humor with a dash of irony as Dinky navigates the absurdity of selling out—literally.

With its minimalist animation and Allen Swift's lively vocal performance, *It's a Living (1957)* stands out as a whimsical critique of commercialization in media. The story's lighthearted yet pointed take on ambition and compromise resonates just as much today, serving as both entertainment and a playful jab at the entertainment industry itself. Whether you're a fan of vintage cartoons or simply curious about how classic animators tackled modern themes, this short film offers a clever, concise escape into a bygone era of cinematic creativity.