Lend a Paw

Right now you can watch Lend a Paw in Australia on Disney Plus, and in the US on Disney Plus — and the writing holds up regardless of the format's reputation. It knows exactly what kind of film it is from the opening scene, and never loses that thread. With 101 viewer ratings on TMDB, this is not a title flying under the radar. The visual style is immediately recognisable, but the writing is what keeps you watching. There is no real reason to keep putting it off — it is right there on Disney Plus.

Whatever else is competing for your attention this week, Lend a Paw is worth clearing space for. Lend a Paw has the visual identity that makes it immediately recognisable, and the writing to back it up. Jealous over Mickey's attention to a kitten, Pluto's devil-self argues with his angel-self over whether or not to rescue the kitten when it falls into a well. The angel-self wins, and Pluto is treated like a hero. In the end, he and the kitten become friends. Every line from Walt Disney and Pinto Colvig lands with more craft than you'd expect. It hit screens in 1941. The visual gags in Lend a Paw reward close attention without ever depending on it. There is real craft here, even in the moments that do not fully land.

Lend a Paw belongs on any best-of list regardless of format. It rewards viewers regardless of what else is in their watch history. It is a manageable watch, easy to fit into a single evening. Visually distinctive and narratively ambitious in ways that hold up regardless of format. Worth watching in order from the beginning.

Lend a Paw was released in 1941, directed by Clyde Geronimi. The full 8-minute film is available to watch now. Find exactly where it's streaming below, and TV Butler Pro makes it effortless to track your progress as you go. Just search the name, and Butler finds it instantly, tells you which service has it, and remembers exactly where you left off.