Artwork created to advertise the 1972 animated film “Fritz the Cat,” these promotional materials existed in various formats, from standard one-sheets displayed in cinema lobbies to larger, more elaborate pieces used for special promotions. They typically featured imagery of the titular feline alongside other key characters, often engaging in activities reflective of the film’s adult themes and counter-culture setting. These graphics also served to highlight the distinctive visual style of underground cartoonist Robert Crumb, upon whose work the film was based.
As artifacts of both cinematic history and 1970s counter-culture, these advertisements hold significance for collectors and cultural historians. They provide a tangible link to a period of significant social and artistic change, reflecting the era’s shifting values and aesthetic sensibilities. The artwork’s bold visuals and often provocative subject matter contributed to the film’s notoriety, further cementing its place in popular culture. These pieces not only promoted the movie but also became collectible items, representing a piece of animation history and a reflection of Crumb’s distinctive artistic style.
