Fleischer were responsible for some brilliant cartoons, some of them still among my favourites. Their visual style was often stunning and some of the most imaginative and ahead of its time in animation.
The character of Betty Boop, one of their most famous and prolific characters, may not be for all tastes and sadly not as popular now, but her sex appeal was quite daring for the time and to me there is an adorable sensual charm about her. That charm, sensuality and adorable factor is not lost anywhere here, nor her comic timing, her personality not dulled down at all despite her appearance being far too brief.
For me, 'Popular Melodies' is among the high middle of Fleischer/Betty Boop animation-mixed-with-live-action efforts. Not one of Fleischer's overall best by any stretch, or one of the best featuring Betty and not one of the most imaginative of their cartoons featuring live-action performers
Admittedly, the story though fun is flimsy, barely existent even, and anybody looking for non-stop hilarity are best looking elsewhere. Arthur Jarrett sings beautifully but in terms of presence he is slightly bland. Wouldn't have said no to more animation as well but that's probably just me, mainly because the highlights are with the animation.
However, the animation is outstanding, everything is beautifully and meticulously drawn and the whole cartoon is rich in visual detail and imagination. Every bit as good is the music score, which delivers on the energy, lusciousness and infectiousness, great for putting anybody in a good mood.
On top of these, 'Popular Melodies' is amusing and charming with a delightful Betty, a great neat set up and some great gags. A highlight being the deliciously bizarre end sequence. Jarrett sings beautifully.
All in all, nicely done and pleasant if not mind-blowing. 7/10 Bethany Cox