Posted on December 29, 2025 by Neil Cole
The Senate Theater in Detroit, MI will celebrate the artistry and innovation of classic theatrical animation with its upcoming Fleischer Studios Cartoon Festival, a family-friendly matinee taking place on Saturday, February 7th. The event brings a selection of vintage Fleischer Studios cartoons back to the big screen, offering audiences a chance to experience these films in a historic theater setting. Doors open at 2:00 PM, followed by a live organ prelude at 2:30 PM, with the screening beginning at 3:00 PM. Admission is $6.00 for adults, and children 12 and under are admitted free.
Fleischer Studios was one of the most influential animation houses of the early 20th century, known for its bold visual style, fluid movement, and cinematic storytelling. The festival reflects that legacy with a carefully curated lineup of shorts presented in both digital and 16mm film formats, preserving the look and feel of classic theatrical animation.
Among the highlights of the afternoon are two celebrated Superman cartoons from the early 1940s. Audiences will see Superman (1941), the character's first animated theatrical appearance, which introduced moviegoers to a dramatic and visually striking version of the Man of Steel. Also featured is The Bulleteers (1942), an action-driven short that showcases Fleischer Studios' talent for suspense and scale as Superman faces a dangerous, fast-moving criminal threat. While part of a larger program, these cartoons offer an important glimpse into Superman's earliest screen history and the studio's cinematic approach to the character.
The matinee also includes additional Fleischer favorites starring characters such as Popeye and Betty Boop, rounding out a program that highlights the studio's range and lasting influence. Together, the selections provide a snapshot of animation's golden age, when theatrical cartoons were a central part of the moviegoing experience.
Designed for families, animation fans, and classic film enthusiasts, the Fleischer Studios Cartoon Festival offers a relaxed and nostalgic afternoon at one of Detroit's most beloved historic theaters. Additional information and event details can be found at SenateTheater.com.
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English (US) · 