The Bum Bandit (1931)

The Bum Bandit Review

The Bum Bandit is a 1931 animated short film from the Talkartoons series.

Masked bandit Bimbo holds up a train carrying someone tougher – Betty Boop herself. This is one of the better Talkartoons due to its very entertaining plot that aged so well. It’s a western-themed cartoon that is at its best when focusing on the Betty Boop character, who still has her dog ears here, but is badass and powerful.

In fact, this is a rare case of her in a proactive role where she is the bandit herself. The song that she sings was amusing, though it was odd hearing her different voice as she was played by a different actress at this point in time. Bimbo and Betty share a great dynamic in this fun movie that has a terrific third act, but a disappointing first half that wasn’t a particularly engaging setup.

The Bum Bandit is one of the better Talkartoons thanks to a memorable Betty, a solid use of its western-themed premise and a fantastic ending that was so much fun.

My Rating – 4