Film Review –  Peter Rabbit

Surely by now you are aware of the various controversies surrounding the latest big screen adaptation of a beloved children’s book title?

Peter Rabbit, the creation of Beatrix Potter, who was rejected by so many publishers that she ended up printing the book herself back in 1902, has leapt from the page to the cinema screen with a vivid modern spin.

Voiced by James Corden who along with triplet sisters Flopsy (Margot Robbie), Mopsy (Elizabeth Debicki) and Cotton-Tail (Daisy Ridley) lead Bea (Rose Byrne) and Thomas McGregor (Domnhall Gleeson) on merry adventures through a vegetable garden on a gorgeous country estate.

Thomas has moved to the countryside for two reasons – firstly because his job in the city in the toy section of a large department store left him burnt out and in need of a break. And secondly because with the absence of his Uncle – Mr McGregor (Sam Neill) the farm needs somebody to look after it.

When Thomas arrives at the farm, it has been invaded by partying animals and he sets about restoring law and order. This leads to conflict between himself and Peter Rabbit – the ringleader of the animals – as they both compete for the attention of Bea, a local artist and animal lover.

The action is fast and furious and rarely lets up.

The themes include the death of the Rabbit’s parents who ended up in one of Mr McGregor’s pies.

The animation of the animals is stunning and the performances from the human cast are superb as they do their thing with tennis balls and sacks of flour before the creatures are created after filming.

If you are offended by the idea of a century old character receiving a modern revival, and aren’t partial to a wise-cracking mischievous rabbit then this won’t work for you.

I saw the film with over 20 kids and they could hardly stop shrieking with laughter.

There is a huge amount of physical comedy that goes down a treat and so many jokes hit the mark with the intended audience that this is great bang for your buck.

3 & ½ Stars. – “Creatures Shine in Modern Twist on Classic Tale”