Boogie Doodle

“Boogie-Doodle” is a short experimental animated film created by Norman McLaren in 1940, set to the lively boogie-woogie piano music of Albert Ammons. The film is three minutes long and features no dialogue or narration, relying entirely on visuals and music to convey its rhythm and energy.

The animation was made using a unique technique where McLaren drew directly onto the film strip without using a camera. This method results in a vibrant display of abstract shapes and patterns that dance across the screen in perfect synchronization with the music. The visuals are rhythmic and dynamic, with colors shifting and shapes morphing to match the tempo and mood of the boogie-woogie piano.

The film begins with simple geometric forms—lines, dots, and curves—that pulse and move in time with the music. As the piano melody progresses, these shapes evolve into more complex patterns, creating a sense of movement and vitality. High-pitched notes are often accompanied by bright colors like yellows, greens, and blues, while lower tones introduce deeper hues such as reds and purples. The animation mirrors the energy of the music, creating a visual representation of sound that feels alive and celebratory.