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Freddy the Freshman

short
animation
comedy
short
animation
comedy

About

Freddy the Freshman, a canine college student wearing a beanie, over-sized eyeglasses and a raccoon coat, arrives at a pep rally. Did we say raccoon coat? It turns out his coat is made of live cats, who sing the praises of Freddy along with everyone else. Freddy proves worthy of this adulation when his performance at a football game leads his school to victory. But don′t expect ordinary football. Dachshunds, mice, lions, pigs, ducks and other members of a menagerie are the players. The football field is complete with a tree, a puddle, and even a clothesline (with long underwear and bloomers hanging out to dry). The cheerleaders are three Jewish parrots and an effeminate rooster. Meanwhile, no one speaks when he can sing the title song. "Are ya listenin′?" asks the announcer. "Hmmm?"

Story

Directed by Rudolf Ising, this cartoon is an early piece of animation that falls under the Merrie Melodies series produced by Leon Schlesinger Productions, which would later become Warner Bros. Cartoons. Rudolf Ising, along with partner Hugh Harman, was a pioneer in the animation industry and played a pivotal role in creating early animated works that laid the foundation for future Warner Bros. cartoons. Ising’s contribution to the animation landscape is significant, not only for his directorial work but also for co-creating the character Bosko, one of the earliest recurring cartoon characters for Warner Bros.</p>The short itself centers around its titular character, Freddy, who is depicted as a bumbling yet enthusiastic college freshman. Freddy engages in various escapades typical of college life, with sports and romance featuring prominently in the storyline. The cartoon follows a lighthearted and humorous tone, using music and slapstick comedy to engage its audience. As is typical of the era, the animation style is somewhat rudimentary by modern standards but showcased impressive skill and creativity for its time.</p>In terms of cast, voice actors from the early 1930s era typically went uncredited in these short cartoons. However, it is worth noting that the production featured the musical talents of Frank Marsales, who often collaborated with Harman and Ising on their cartoon projects. His musical accompaniment was integral to achieving the bubbly and zany atmosphere that characterized many of the Merrie Melodies shorts. While the cartoon itself may not have garnered significant accolades or awards, its place in the legacy of early American animation is invaluable, reflecting the styles and sensibilities of its time.</p>

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An Inspiring space crafted for

storytelling animations

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© 2025 Popflick LLC

An Inspiring space crafted for

storytelling animations

© 2025 Popflick LLC

Socials