Fleischer Studios' cartoons more often than not amused and charmed and were always well made. Not without over-cuteness at times and stories were seldom a strong suit, but they were always made up for significantly in appealing characters, outstanding music and visuals that were inventive and with innovative animation techniques.
Of the 1937 Popeye cartoons, 'Hospitaliky' agreed is one of the best, among the best Fleischer cartoons and is one of the best Popeye cartoons overall. If there was a list for classic Popeye cartoons, 'Hospitaliky' undoubtedly would be on it. It has everything that makes the Popeye series so appealing in its prime era and Popeye, Olive Oyl and Bluto are all on top form. While the good animation, even better music scoring, entertainment value, spot on character writing and chemistry between the leads.
The chemistry between the three characters really shines in 'Hospitaliky', especially as ever between Popeye and Bluto. Their chemistry is pretty legendary and drives the Popeye cartoons when they are together, which they are a lot though there have been effective changes of pace. One can see why that is the case, the energy between the two sparkles. Popeye is immensely entertaining and likeable while Bluto is every bit his equal. Would have liked to have seen more of Olive though.
If reading the premise, one would naturally think this is absurd. Thinking how to make something funny out of going to great lengths to be admitted to hospital just for love, when hospitals are among many people's least favourite places. Including me with it over the past eight years being a familiar place for me, while having great respect for everybody in the medical profession. 'Hospitality' manages to do so, brilliantly with remarkably fresh execution and non-stop energy and entertainment value. The story is not too formulaic and boasts a clever ending. Lots of gags spot on in timing, with not a misfire in the lot. Particularly effective in the laughs department are the truly creative injury attempts of Popeye and Bluto and Popeye's asides and mumblings, what could have been irritating manages to be something of an art form.
Furthermore, the animation is beautifully drawn and with enough visual detail to not make it cluttered or static and lively and smooth movement. The music is also outstanding, lots of merry energy and lush orchestration, adding a lot to the action and making the impact even better without being too cartoonish. Fleischer's direction is always accomplished and his style is all over it.
Voice acting is dynamic and of very good quality, especially from Jack Mercer. Though nobody voiced Olive better than her most frequent voice actress Mae Questel and Gus Wickie has the right amount of menace for Bluto.
Summarising, a great cartoon and one of the best from this period. 9/10
