Knock Knock (1940)
The seven-minute animated short that accidentally launched one of cartoon history's most beloved and enduring characters.
Knock Knock - Movie Information
- Release Year: 1940
- Directed by: Walter Lantz, Alex Lovy
- Type: Movie
- Genres: Animation, Comedy
- Age Rating (US): NR
- Runtime: 7m
- Original Language: English
- Spoken Languages: English
- Release Date (Theatrical): November 19, 1940 (United States - NR)
- Production Companies: Walter Lantz Productions
- Production Countries: United States of America
Knock Knock - Plot
A woodpecker (Woody) repeatedly pecks the roof of Andy Panda's and his father's home. Daddy sets out to stop it.
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Knock Knock - Cast & Crew
Director(s)
- Walter Lantz
- Alex Lovy
Main Cast
- Sara Berner
- Mel Blanc
Writers
- Lowell Elliot
- Ben Hardaway
Producers
- Walter Lantz
Knock Knock - FAQs
What is Knock Knock (1940) about?
Knock Knock follows Andy Panda and his father as they're driven to their wits' end by a hyperactive woodpecker hammering away at their roof. The short is best remembered as the very first appearance of Woody Woodpecker, whose manic energy and distinctive laugh instantly set him apart from other cartoon characters of the era.
Is Knock Knock Woody Woodpecker's debut appearance?
Yes! Knock Knock marks the very first screen appearance of Woody Woodpecker. He shows up as a scene-stealing antagonist in what was originally an Andy Panda short. Woody's wild personality proved so popular with audiences that Walter Lantz quickly gave him his own series, launching one of animation's most enduring characters.
Who voiced Woody Woodpecker in this short?
Mel Blanc provided the voice of Woody Woodpecker in Knock Knock, along with voicing Daddy Panda and the other woodpeckers. Sara Berner voiced Andy Panda. Both performers went uncredited at the time, which was common practice for voice actors in Hollywood animation during the 1940s.
Where can you watch Knock Knock (1940)?
You can check current streaming availability for Knock Knock on JustWatch, which tracks where the short is available to watch or rent across platforms in your region. As a classic 1940 theatrical short, availability may vary depending on your country and the services you subscribe to.
Who directed Knock Knock (1940)?
Knock Knock was co-directed by Walter Lantz and Alex Lovy. Lantz was the driving creative force behind the entire Walter Lantz Productions studio, while Lovy served as a key animation director throughout the studio's golden era. Together they crafted the short that accidentally launched one of animation's biggest stars.
What is the historical significance of this short?
Knock Knock is a landmark in animation history. It introduced Woody Woodpecker to the world, a character who would go on to star in over 200 cartoons and become one of the most recognizable animated icons ever created. The short also showcased Mel Blanc's extraordinary vocal range early in his legendary career.
Who wrote the story for Knock Knock?
The short was written by Lowell Elliot and Ben Hardaway. Hardaway, in particular, had a notable career in Hollywood animation, having previously worked at Warner Bros. on early Bugs Bunny and Daffy Duck cartoons. His knack for anarchic, fast-paced comedy is very much on display in Woody's chaotic debut.
What are some similar cartoons to Knock Knock?
If you enjoy Knock Knock, classic shorts like Quiet Please! (1945) and Tee for Two (1945) offer a similar mix of noise-driven slapstick and animal antics. For more Woody Woodpecker fun, the 2017 Woody Woodpecker film and Woody Woodpecker Goes to Camp (2024) bring the character into a modern setting.
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