The Man on the Flying Trapeze Review

The Man on the Flying Trapeze is a 1934 Popeye the Sailor animated short film that is one of the rare musicals for the series.

Popeye has to get his love back from the circus performer by beating the guy naturally. First, let’s talk about the flaws. The circus performer isn’t such a memorable character and the second half is filled with pretty uninspired fight sequences. However, this is otherwise a very good short which is willed with excellent character moments for Olive and especially Popeye who is hilarious near the end in a memorable moment. Another great moment is when he moves the whole audience so he can sit. It is a funny film as expected.

I liked that it is a musical which is rare and refreshing. It succeeds because the songs here are so catchy. Of course Popeye’s signature tune is phenomenal, but the title song is also really fun and very catchy. I liked the energetic approach here and the whole flick is entertaining and charming.

The Man on the Flying Trapeze has such a fantastic humor as usual for the series, but what is new is the musical approach and it works to its advantage with catchy songs and leading to a fun flick.

My Rating – 4.2