Donald’s Better Self (1938)

Donald’s Better Self Review

Donald’s Better Self is a 1938 animated short film from the Donald Duck series. It is a pretty strong flick.

Donald prepares to go to school, but is torn between his angelic side and his evil side whether or not to go. Yes, the angel and devil trying to influence a character to do the right or wrong thing is pretty much a clichéd formula for many cartoons, but here it worked because it was taken to greater heights. The angel and the devil ultimately fought, which was quite entertaining to follow.

There is also a lot of charm to be found in this short that sees Donald be a school boy unlike an adult that he would be portrayed as in later shorts. Donald is endearing as this easily influenced, stubborn kid and the smoking scene was so much fun and so memorable as it would obviously never happen in today’s cartoons. The animation is gorgeous here and quite painterly.

Donald’s Better Self has a weaker ending and a familiar plot, but it was elevated by gorgeous animation, wonderful characterization and some very amusing scenarios.

My Rating – 4.1