Hen Hop

About This Movie

Hen Hop is a delightful little short that really showcases Norman McLaren's innovative creativity. The whole thing feels so playful, with this charming hen dancing around and eventually transforming into an egg. What’s intriguing is how McLaren used no camera – just drew right on the film stock. The hand-drawn animation, combined with the optical coloring, gives it such a unique vibe that’s hard to replicate. The pacing is spot-on, and the whimsical music really enhances the atmosphere. It’s quite the experience to watch, not just for the animation but for the technique behind it. It’s one of those films that really makes you appreciate the art of animation itself, especially from that era.

Hen Hop is a notable piece among animation enthusiasts, especially for its unique production method. As one of McLaren's earlier works, it holds a certain charm and curiosity for collectors. The scarcity of physical copies and its historical significance make it a point of interest, particularly in discussions about early experimental animation. It’s fascinating to see how these techniques paved the way for future innovations in the field.