Escalation

About This Movie

Escalation is an interesting piece of animation that captures a specific moment in time—the late 60s anti-war sentiment. Directed by Ward Kimball, known for his work at Disney, this film uses humor to critique LBJ's policies on Vietnam. The animation style is vibrant and fluid, typical of the era, which contrasts sharply with its heavy themes. It’s not just a simple comedy; it’s layered with social commentary, and there’s an almost surreal quality to the visuals that makes you think. The pacing keeps you engaged, but you can feel the tension beneath the surface. It’s a unique blend of playful animation and serious message that stands out in the context of its time, unlike most other political animations of the period.

Escalation has a somewhat elusive presence in the collector's market. Its original release was limited, which adds to its rarity today. Various formats have surfaced over the years, but finding a clean, well-preserved copy is becoming harder as time goes on. Collector interest seems to be growing, particularly among those who appreciate politically charged animations from the 60s, making it a curiosity for animation enthusiasts and historians alike.