Ben and Me

US (1953): Animation/Comedy/Family/Short

The story of Ben Franklin through the eyes of a mouse. Amos, a poor church mouse, sets out to find work, since his family of 26 is starving. He's rejected by several places and takes refuge in the run-down print shop of Ben Franklin. He quickly gives Ben the ideas for the Franklin Stove, bifocals, and the newspaper The Pennsylvania Gazette as Ben's creditors are threatening to shut him down in 24 hours. The paper is an instant hit and Ben prospers. With Amos hidden in his hat prompting him, Ben seems much brighter than he is. However, when Ben flies Amos in his kite and gets him hit by lighting, Amos leaves. In the summer of 1776, Ben is desperate, and begs Amos to return. He agrees, but only if Ben will sign a contract. The next day, as they are beginning their talks, Tom Jefferson drops by for help wording the opening of the Declaration of Independence, and as Ben reads the opening words of the contract, Tom says, "that's it!" Directed by Hamilton Luske. (Jon Reeves, IMDb)

· Short Subject (Two-reel) 1953: Disney, Buena Vista (Cartoon Special Series) Walt Disney, producer

1 nomination