Smart as a Fox (1946)

Though it’s from the perspective of a fox cub, this short film is really just a gentle saunter through life in a forest teeming with life. Most things are bigger than this curious little critter: some are scared of it, others want to eat it and it’s mother spends much of her time trying to feed, find and house it amidst all the noises that surround this new family. It’s really the photography that stands out here as it manages to successfully personalise many of the animals. Not by giving them silly voices, but by getting up close to their facial expressions - and I’m sure there’s the odd frown on the vixen’s face from time to time, too. It’s a diverse little wood with deer and owls and when the cub gets himself lost, there are even a few moments of peril (and berries). I didn’t love the narration, but the film is an easy watch.