This screening marks only the second known U.S. presentation of these unique animated films. It features newly digitized archival materials and will be followed by a panel discussion. The discussion will cover the historical, aesthetic, and political contexts of these Cold War cartoons, presented by Derek G. Larson (FDU), David Joselit (Harvard), and McKenzie Wark (The New School).

Modernism for Export: Cold War Cartoons Made in Mexico with Derek G. Larson (FDU), David Joselit (Harvard), McKenzie Wark (The New School)

This program delves into a little-known U.S. propaganda initiative from 1952 to 1956, where animation produced by Dibujos Animados, S.A. in Mexico blurred the lines between cultural production and ideological messaging. Despite limited distribution, these cartoons, influenced by abstract modernist styles, represent an intersection of local animation practices and Cold War objectives. The screening features newly digitized archival materials.