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Sick Cylinders is a curious piece from 1929 that's part of the animated canon featuring Oswald the Lucky Rabbit, though the director remains a mystery. The film plays out a series of misadventures where Oswald's intentions of a joyride with Kitty are thwarted by a series of slapstick obstacles, like an annoyingly persistent dog and some rather precarious boulders. The pacing has this zany rhythm that keeps the viewer engaged, and the practical effects, typical for the time, add a layer of charm. There's a certain bittersweet edge to Oswald's story, as he ultimately loses Kitty, and his frustrated tantrum with the car is almost comically tragic. It’s these little nuances that give the film its character and make it stand out in the animation landscape of the late '20s.
Sick Cylinders saw limited release and has become somewhat scarce over the years, making it a point of interest for collectors of early animation. Its various formats, including 16mm prints, are sought after, though digital transfers have emerged in recent years. The film’s unique blend of humor and pathos, along with its place in the Oswald series, adds to its allure among animation aficionados.
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