The Incredible Mr. Limpet returns?

 

As a kid, one of my favorite movies was The Incredible Mr. Limpet.   Keep in mind, this was at a time when DVD's and videotape didn't exist.   We were subject to whatever movies were available on TV, and Mr. Limpet was one that was broadcast often.  I looked forward to it whenever it was screened.

For those of you not familiar with the film, it's the story of Henry Limpet, a mild-mannered fish enthusiast who longs to join the navy.  A fall into the ocean causes a fantastic metamorphosis that turns him into an animated dolphin.  As such, he becomes the Navy's greatest secret weapon against the Nazis in World War II.

The movie was released in 1964 and was a beginning and an end, of sorts.  This film launch the film career of Don Knotts, who went on to star in other classic movies such as The Shakiest Gun in the West and The Ghost and Mr. Chicken, both of which made up a big part of my childhood viewing.  On the downside, this was the last animation produced by the Warner Bros. cartoon studio.  Once the film was completed, the studio closed their doors, ending an almost 35-year stream of great animated cartoons.

There has been talk in recent years of a remake, and stars such as Jim Carrey and Zach Galinfiakis have been associated with it from time to time.  Currently Richard Linklater is pinned as director. 
We all know that Don Knotts went on to bigger and better things, but what became of the animated fish?  Many people are unaware that the fish found work at the Walt Disney studios.   Limpet played a cameo role in The Little Mermaid.   In the Under the Sea number, you can see Mr Limpet in the big finale at the end.  See the photo below for unequivocal proof. 

Click on photo for a larger view.   You can see Mr. Limpet near the top, to the right.  Look for the fish wearing glasses.

Limpet made such a big impact in the movie that when it came time to build a Little Mermaid attraction at the theme parks, it was imperative that he was a part of the ride.   So, next time you ride Ariel's Undersea Adventure at Disney California Adventures, keep at least one eye open during the Under the Sea scene.   Near the end of the scene, look to your left, away from the action.  There, you can see Limpet, swimming over to join in the fun!   Again, look below for more unequivocal proof.

It's good to know that Limpet is still making a nice, steady income as he waits for his chance at a remake.  Hail to Henry Limpet!!