Story
The 1936 film, directed by Ub Iwerks, Shamus Culhane, and Al Eugster, is an animated short adaptation. Ub Iwerks, known for co-creating Mickey Mouse alongside Walt Disney, had a distinctive career as an animator and innovator in animated films. Iwerks, who had left Disney to establish his own studio, produced various cartoons that featured his unique animation techniques. Shamus Culhane and Al Eugster also contributed significantly to the animation industry during the golden age of animation. Culhane, who worked on "Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs," and Eugster, known for his work with Fleischer Studios, were accomplished animators in their own right.
As for the plot, this particular adaptation focuses on the well-known tale of Ali Baba, who discovers a secret cave filled with treasure, concealed by the magical phrase "Open, Sesame." This classic story, originating from the collection of Middle Eastern folk tales known as "One Thousand and One Nights," follows Ali Baba’s trials and triumphs as he comes into conflict with the forty thieves who own the treasure. The narrative is filled with suspense, cleverness, and moral lessons, characteristic of many folktales from that era.
Although specific cast details are less prominent given its animated nature, the film stands out due to its quality of animation and the creative acumen of its directors. The film’s release during the 1930s signifies an era when animation was rapidly evolving, with improvements in techniques and storytelling. Iwerks, Culhane, and Eugster contributed to this growth, and their collaboration on this animated short remains a testament to the artistic endeavors of early 20th-century animation.