Francis

Francis was the first talking BEFORE Mister Ed the talking horse. Francis the talking mule, was and is still a favourite comedy. The films were based on a popular book about a military man who meets a mule who can talk. Arthur Lubin, the producer, of the the movies later went on to create the Mister Ed TV series. Francis was trained by Will Rogers and apprentice Less hilton, Mr. Eds trainer.The same technical practice of teaching Francis when to move his mouth was later used on Mister Ed. Miles are very smart and will do what they are asked as long as you are kind and gentle with them.

Francis was the very first recipient of the American humane Association Annyal Patsy Award (1st place) in 1950. The award was given to the animals shown in motion pictures for an outstanding performance. A trophy was engraved with the winners name.It was similar, to the Golden Globe awards today. This award was discontinued around the 1980s.

Francis continued winning awards.
The computer illusions of "fake animal talent" changed it all though. For instance the commercials with horses who talk sometimes use the computer to help it along. Also computer operated robots are used in place of the real animal some scenes of dialogue, and puppets. So then the awards go to the special effects people.

Francis did 7 movies from 1949 to 1956 starring with character "Peter Sterling" was Donald O'Connor and in the last movie was Mickey Ronney. There were also a lot of comic books made from the television series "Francis the talking mule".