Get a Horse

Get a Horse, directed by Lauren MacMullan in 2013, is an innovative mix of black-and-white, hand-drawn 2D animation and contemporary, full-color 3D CGI. It features a blend of old-era animation techniques with new-age 3D animation, displaying a testament to the technological advancements in the cinematic world and hinting at the lapsing of time within Disney's history. The surprise genius of this movie emerges from the idea to amalgamate both past and present, and pays homage to the generations of artists who have created magical experiences replacing the barriers of reality with fantasy.

The short film starts with classic characters Mickey Mouse (voiced by Walt Disney himself through archival recordings) and his girlfriend, Minnie Mouse (voiced by Marcellite Garner). They are set on a nostalgic black and white, hand-drawn backdrop, essentially mimicking the vintage Disney shorts of the early 20th century. In the initial scenes, you see them enjoying a simple hayride - a seemingly benign day with their lovable friends, Horace Horsecollar and Clarabelle Cow.

But soon, that peaceful tranquility is shattered by the notorious bully Peg-Leg Pete (voiced by Billy Bletcher), with his characteristic evil grins and sinister laughter. He disrupts the joyous day out, prompting Mickey's quest to rescue Minnie from his wicked paws. Their adventures take a twist when they suddenly break the 'fourth wall', transitioning into color and 3D animation, a journey in which the viewers can also partake.

One of the striking features of Get a Horse is the successful synchronization of both forms of animation, providing an opportunity for viewers to appreciate the art of animation in its entirety. The smooth transition between the two forms — the old-fashioned 2D and the modern 3D — in an approach that oscillates between past and present, gives the film a unique narrative texture.

The inclusion of Walt Disney’s voice provides a surprising element of authenticity. The voiceovers are selected from archival recordings reminding the audience of the Disney they grew up with, rekindling nostalgia of the golden era of animation. An honorable mention goes to Russi Taylor, who delivers a commendable performance as Minnie Mouse.

Another unique aspect of getting a horse is the attention to visual humor. The movie employs slapstick humor to aid in the story progression, presenting a goofy playfulness that’s charming and entertaining. The frantic action sequences, coupled with comical gags, make it a delightful watch for an audience of all ages, staying true to the original spirit of the first Mickey Mouse shorts.

Lauren MacMullan, an experienced animator, contributes her skills as the director of Get a Horse. She flawlessly replicates the style and humor of Disney’s vintage era while blending it seamlessly with contemporary animation technology. Her direction encapsulates the simplicity of early animation and the dynamism of modern 3D, proving that the two can not only exist but also prosper together.

Get a Horse is a brilliant merger of old and new, celebrating Disney's rich history while also showcasing its technological progress. It succeeds in highlighting the essence of Disney's magic – a seamless blend of simplicity and innovation. Its visual storytelling, combined with historical relevance, offers a charming and entertaining watch for both children and adults alike.

In the end, this film serves to remind viewers of the timeless joy that classic Disney animation evokes, at once nostalgic and innovative. Underlining the idea that even as we innovate and grow, we should never forget our roots, Get a Horse stands as an enduring emblem of Disney's enduring vision. Each moment of this short film is a loving tribute to the era that first saw Mickey Mouse become an integral part of popular culture, while also acknowledging the progress that animation has made over the years. It’s a beautifully executed homage to Walt Disney’s legacy, illustrating not just the origins of Mickey Mouse, but also the evolution of animation as an art form.