Cellbound 1955
In this lightning-fast 1955 short from animation legend Tex Avery, a prison inmate named Spike finally emerges from a two-decade escape tunnel—only to pop up in the one spot he definitely shouldn't be.
Director: Tex Avery
Cast
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Cellbound (1955) about?
Cellbound follows a prisoner named Spike who spends two decades digging an escape tunnel, only to emerge in the one spot that instantly lands him back in trouble. The short film turns a simple premise into nonstop visual gags and rapid-fire comedy.
Who directed Cellbound?
Tex Avery directed Cellbound. Known for his work at MGM and Warner Bros., Avery was a pioneer of fast-paced, gag-driven animation.
Who stars in Cellbound?
The main voice cast includes Paul Frees, who brings the character of Spike to life with his signature comedic timing.
Is Cellbound (1955) worth watching?
Despite its short runtime, Cellbound packs a punch with Avery's signature comedic style and clever gags. Fans of classic animation or quick, laugh-out-loud comedies will find it a delightful time capsule of mid-century humor.
How long is Cellbound?
Cellbound runs for just 6 minutes.
About Cellbound (1955) — Tex Avery's Wild Prison Break Cartoon in 6 Minutes
In this lightning-fast 1955 short from animation legend Tex Avery, a prison inmate named Spike finally emerges from a two-decade escape tunnel—only to pop up in the one spot he definitely shouldn't be. What follows is a lightning bolt of slapstick chaos, where a moment's bad judgment leads to immediate, hilarious consequences. Avery's razor-sharp timing and elastic visual gags turn a simple prison break into a miniature masterclass in comedic timing, blending dry wit with the absurd.
Cellbound leans into the dark humor of fate's cruel ironies, wrapping its brief runtime in a tight, twist-driven narrative that feels both timeless and perfectly of its era. The film's quick cuts, exaggerated expressions, and playful sound design create a frenetic atmosphere that keeps the laughs coming until the final surprise. Whether you're a fan of vintage animation or just love a good underdog story gone sideways, Avery's masterpiece delivers big laughs in a bite-sized package.