The Big Scare Poster

The Big Scare 1929

6 min📅 1929-08-15

Step into the whimsical world of early animation with *The Big Scare* (1929), a delightful 6-minute short directed by the legendary Paul Terry.

Director: Paul Terry

Frequently Asked Questions

What is The Big Scare (1929) about?

A sensationalist newspaper headline sends the animals of Farmer Al Falfa's farm into a tizzy, convinced the world is ending. As the farmer scrambles to calm his hysterical livestock, the short spirals into a series of chaotic yet charming misunderstandings.

Who directed The Big Scare?

The Big Scare was directed by Paul Terry, a pioneering figure in early animation known for his work on series like *Aesop's Film Fables*.

Who stars in The Big Scare?

The film's main star is Farmer Al Falfa, a recurring character in Paul Terry's animations, alongside a cast of expressive barnyard animals whose antics drive the short's humor.

Is The Big Scare (1929) worth watching?

While it's a brief six-minute romp, *The Big Scare* (1929) offers a fun slice of early animation history with its playful take on media frenzy. Fans of vintage cartoons or Paul Terry's work will likely find it charming, though its historical appeal may outweigh modern expectations.

How long is The Big Scare?

The Big Scare (1929) is a short film that runs for 6 minutes.

About The Big Scare (1929) — A Hilarious 1920s Cartoon Short About Media Hysteria

Step into the whimsical world of early animation with *The Big Scare* (1929), a delightful 6-minute short directed by the legendary Paul Terry. This black-and-white cartoon follows the ever-earnest Farmer Al Falfa as he scrambles to rescue his barnyard animals from a panic sparked by a sensationalist newspaper headline proclaiming the end of the world. With its playful mix of slapstick humor and gentle satire, the film captures the chaos and comedy of misplaced hysteria in a way that feels both timeless and nostalgic. The story unfolds in a rustic setting, where the animals—each with their own quirks—react in exaggerated fashion to the alarming news, creating a visual feast of expressive animation and comedic timing.

Directed with a keen eye for character humor, *The Big Scare* (1929) blends the innocence of 1920s animation with a lighthearted critique of media sensationalism. The film's charming simplicity and the expressive antics of its farmyard stars make it a standout in early animated shorts. Whether you're a fan of vintage cartoons or just curious about the evolution of animation, this six-minute escape offers a glimpse into the playful, imaginative spirit of the era.