Betty Boop’s Trial (1934)

Betty Boop’s Trial Review

Betty Boop’s Trial is a 1934 animated short film from the Betty Boop series. It is a very good short.

A traffic cop tries to make time with Betty; she speeds to get away, is arrested, and undergoes a musical trial. This was the last Pre-Code movie that was risqué and adult. From now onward, it is going to be a much tamer cartoon series. For this reason alone, this flick is essential viewing. It has its flaws. The gags are repetitive at times and the musical section was overwhelming. But it was still mostly a success.

The highlight was the first scene where the policeman chased Betty. Their interactions were so much fun. The animation is also stupendous and the score is terrific with the songs being highly memorable and endearing. Fred as Betty’s sort of boyfriend was great and so was the goofy judge character. The entire trial was hilarious and ridiculous at the same time. The ending was also fantastic and very funny.

Betty Boop’s Trial has its issues, but it was a terrific final risqué Betty Boop short that benefits from excellent music, strong animation and some great gags.

My Rating – 4