Screwball Squirrel

Synopsis

Screwball Squirrel is a lively and humorous animated short film released in 1944, featuring the mischievous antics of its titular character, Screwball Squirrel, voiced by Wally Maher. This cartoon follows Screwball as he embarks on a series of slapstick escapades filled with clever wordplay, zany physical comedy, and unpredictable twists. Set against the backdrop of classic wartime America, the film showcases the character's boundless energy and relentless pursuit of fun, delivering laughs through fast-paced gags and quirky dialogue. As a product of its era, the animation style and character design reflect the vibrant, energetic spirit of 1940s cartoons, making it a memorable piece for animation enthusiasts and casual viewers alike.

Cast

• Wally Maher

  Screwy Squirrel/Sammy Squirrel (voice) (uncredited)

• Dick Nelson

  Meathead (voice) (uncredited)

• Cal Howard

  Meathead (voice) (uncredited)

• 

  William Hanna

  Screwy Squirrel's Scream (voice) (uncredited)

Reviews

Screwball Squirrel has garnered a mix of nostalgic appreciation and moderate critique from audiences and animation historians. On IMDb, the film holds a respectable rating of 7.1 out of 10, indicating generally favorable viewer reception. Fans praise the short for its fast-moving humor and the expressive, exaggerated animation typical of the period. The characterization of Screwball Squirrel as a witty and unpredictable protagonist has been highlighted as a key strength, with Wally Maher’s voice work being noted for adding charm and personality. Critics from animation-focused sites recognize the short for its contribution to the mid-20th-century animation landscape, particularly noting its clever gags and timing. However, some contemporary reviewers point out that the humor and pacing might feel dated for modern audiences accustomed to different comedic styles and note that the short's brevity leaves little room for plot development. Overall, Screwball Squirrel remains an enjoyable watch for fans of classic animation and vintage cartoon humor, celebrated for its energetic style and historical value despite some limitations in universal appeal.