In 1941, the Superman character had only been around for two years, but the incredible popularity he'd earned in that short time put him on the fast track to Hollywood. To adapt the Man of Steel to motion pictures, Paramount Pictures tapped the studio of Max and Dave Fleischer, the innovative animators responsible for the hugely popular Betty Boop and Popeye cartoons, as well as the "Gulliver's Travels" feature film. Their version of Superman would debut in theaters on September 26, 1941 in what was the most expensive animated short of its time: "Superman" (also known as "The Mad Scientist"). It was enthusiastically received by audiences and critics alike, earning a nomination for the 1942 Academy Award for Best Short Subject: Cartoons.

Eight more shorts followed from the Fleischer Studios, and another eight from the Famous Studios outfit that replaced them. In later years, the shorts would become a staple of afternoon cartoon shows on television for decades, entertaining and inspiring new generations of fans. In the 1990's, the creators of the acclaimed "Batman: The Animated Series" acknowledged the Fleischer Superman shorts as a prime influence, and their popularity remains undimmed today, more than 65 years since their debut.

Over time, the shorts have fallen into the public domain and are available in VHS and DVD form from many sources. A sampling of shorts are collected here for the entertainment of museum visitors.

"Superman" aka "The Mad Scientist" Superman battles an evil genius bent on destroying Metropolis with his "Electo-thanasia" ray. Watch		"The Mechanical Monsters" Superman must stop an army of transforming robots from looting the city. Watch
"Volcano!" A massive volcano threatens disaster, and Lois Lane is at ground zero. Watch		"Arctic Giant" Thawed from his icy slumber, a prehistoric behemoth runs amuck in modern-day Metropolis. Watch