Fleischer Studios were responsible for many gems. Ones that amused and charmed, though over-cuteness did come through in some efforts and the stories were always pretty thin, with appealing characters, outstanding music and visuals that were inventive and with innovative animation techniques.
'Bulldozing the Bull' is one of the best Popeye cartoons to me. It is extremely well done and never less than very funny, its best parts being hilarious. Will admit to having always enjoyed many of the Popeye cartoons a good deal and like Popeye very much, Fleischer's efforts were always well animated and scored with lots of entertainment value and great chemistry between the characters. 'Bulldozing the Bull' has top-notch characterisation and everything that makes the other best cartoons so great is evident here. Didn't mind the absence of Bluto at all and feel that with the premise it was the right decision to not have him.
The story is an interesting and beautifully paced one, never being dull, if slightly formulaic (not uncommon with the Popeye cartoons). The humour and gags make it even more entertaining, 'Bulldozing the Bull' is non-stop fast-paced wildness and laughter, avoiding the trap of repetition.
All the characters are great, Olive Oyl is not underused and she charms and amuses. Easy to see what Popeye sees in her. Popeye is always amusing and likeable while the funny and formidable bull comes close to stealing the show. The bullfight setting is used to great advantage, though it's the character interplay between Popeye and the bull, which is so much fun with some tension, that is most memorable here.
Furthermore, the animation is great, beautifully drawn and with enough visual detail to not make it cluttered or static and lively and smooth movement. The music is also outstanding, lots of merry energy and lush orchestration, adding a lot to the action and making the impact even better without being too cartoonish. Fleischer's direction is always accomplished and his style is all over it.
Jack Mercer is spot on as Popeye and Margie Hines' decision to give a Spanish accent to Olive comes over very well, though there is a preference for Mae Questel because she fits the character more.
In conclusion, another great Popeye cartoon. 9/10 Bethany Cox