Watching Classic Movies Podcast: Talking Fleischer Studios Cartoon Restoration and The Unlikely Social Media Star Koko the Ghost Clown with Fleischer Historian Ray Pointer and Rockin' Pins Owner Mauricio Alvarado

When I saw that a social media filter featuring the dancing ghost of Koko the Clown had gone viral, I had to know the story behind it. What I found was a great team that is working to preserve the timeless ‘toons of Max Fleischer, which featured Betty Boop, Popeye, Koko the Clown, and consisted of hundreds of fascinating animated shorts. This is my first dual interview on the show. Ray Pointer has been a Fleischer scholar for decades. He is the author of the essential Fleischer Studios tome The Art and Inventions of Max Fleischer: American Animation Pioneer. Mauricio Alvarado is the owner of Rockin’ Pins, a merchandising company with licenses for several entertainment properties, including many Fleischer ‘toons characters, including Koko the Clown Ghost. The pair have worked in partnership with Jane Fleischer Reid, granddaughter of Max, to bring new attention these timeless ‘toons by funding restorations, hosting screenings, and spreading the word at conventions and other special events. I was deeply impressed with the knowledge and passion these two shared in our conversation. 

To support the Fleischer Cartoon Restoration Project, you can become a patron at Patreon 

Find all of the Fleischer 'Toons social media accounts at their LinkTree 

You can buy official Fleischer Studios merchandise (which helps support the restoration) and Ray Pointer's book at Rockin' Pins. 

This is a great interview with Ray Pointer, conducted by Jane Fleischer Reid, which goes into more detail about his book and Fleischer research.  

Official Fabulous Fleischer Cartoons Restored! YouTube Channel 

Ray Pointer's YouTube Channel 

You can purchase Ray Pointer's DVD releases of Fleischer 'toons on his website.

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