I’m a big fan of what I call “mystery art”–stuff that’s entertaining in part because it’s confusing. This piece of original art I happen to own fits the bill. I know it’s of an alligator. And I know it’s stamped “Return to Dave Tendlar,” though I don’t know why. What production, or studio, is it from? And did Tendlar actually draw it, or did he simply wish that it be returned to him? And if the latter, why?

I feel some sort of weird remorse every time I look at it, because clearly, Dave Tendar wanted it back, badly enough to stamp it with a request to that effect in two places–and he apparently didn’t get it. And given that he’s no longer with us, it’s too late to do anything about it.

Anyhow, I’m puzzled by this piece, but I think it has quite a bit of personality, and without knowing what film it’s from, I’m going to guess that this sketch is more exuberant and pleasing than the finished film it was prepared for.

Anyone out there have any guesses or solid information on the story behind the sketch? E-mail me if you do.

Brew reader Tim Stevens sent in this cool letterhead (from a letter from Blanc to Tim’s grandfather). Thanks for sharing, Tim!

Brew readers who live in the New York metropolitan area, may want to attend this special classic cartoon screening next Monday night.The Academy Theater at Lighthouse International is screening a weekly showcase of Oscar nominated films entitled, “MONDAY NIGHTS WITH OSCAR”. This Monday, the screening will be focused on cartoons that either won or have been nominated for the Academy Award, in a program entitled “OSCARS AND ANIMATION”. Animator Michael Sporn will be hosting this special evening.The screening starts at 7:30pm. Doors Open at 7pm. Tickets $5, $ 3 for students. For more info call Call 1-888-778-7575 or check the Academy websiteNovember 15, 2004
Academy Theater at Lighthouse International
111 E 59th St
New York, NY(Thanks to Nelson Hughes for the link)

Heads up! This Saturday, Brewmaster Jerry Beck will be heard as a guest on a radio show based in New Orleans, which will be broadcast on the internet live and archived on their website. On November 13th at 1 pm Central Time (that’s 2pm on the East coast and 11am on the west) I’ll be on the second hour of “Movie Talk with David DuBos” on WGSO AM 990 (aka Biz Radio), to discuss Looney Tunes! Tune in and Toon in!

2004 is the 85th Anniversary of the creation of Felix The Cat, and Felix historian David Gerstein has been updating the data on his wonderful wonderful website, The Classic Felix The Cat Page, recently filling out the 1919-1921 Paramount Magazine filmography to it’s most complete form yet. David has uncovered previously unresearched corporate documents and has posted all the titles, and most of the synopses, for the vast majority of these earliest Felix films. Researching silent animation is difficult, but David is diligently making progress on the ultimate resource to the classic Sullivan/Messmer creation.

Brad Bird (THE INCREDIBLES) has been sitting for interviews everywhere - and all of them are worth reading. Here is one of the best: at The Onion.

Brew reader Pietro Shakarian points out that Universal has been licensing the early Oswald Rabbit in Japan - as illustrated by this example (right) in the recent line of Kubrick toys based on Woody Woodpecker & Friends available there. David Gerstein also mentions that Cartoon Network Japan is running Lantz Oswalds on their Late Night Black & White block.

Now I know what I want for Christmas! These Japanese import Oswald Plush dolls!Who did Bandai license these from? Lantz? Disney? Or are they unauthorized? No child (or sane adult for that matter) has seen an early Disney/Lantz Oswald in over 40 years. Who could the possible consumer be for this product - other than us?To quote the other Bunny: “I’ll take ya’s ta bed wit me every night!” (Thanks To Thad K. for the link)