The anthropomorphic characters in Beatrix Potter's beloved
children's books are showcased but also transformed in this manic comedy, a mix
of live action and CGI animation directed and co-written by Will Gluck. The eponymous
bunny (voice of James Cordon), here a fast-talking juvenile delinquent, a
hipster dude with a nasty murderous streak, is elated when the mean gardener
(Sam Neill) next door kicks the bucket, allowing him and his furry friends
access to his vegetables and cottage. When the deceased's grandnephew (Domhnall
Gleeson) moves in and falls for his comely neighbor (Rose Byrne), the rabbits
once more declare war. The film does impart some of the lessons of Potter's
books, including the importance of family, honesty and forgiveness. But Gluck
and script collaborator Ron Lieber cannot resist the ill-mannered behavior,
low-brow jokes, and noisy eruptions that seem to be staples in children's films
today, setting a discordant tone contrary to Potter's elegant style.
Watch out for: A vengeance
theme, a glimpse of partial rear nudity, some rude humor and action sequences.
Rated: A-II, adults and
adolescents; MPAA: PG
© Arlington Catholic Herald 2018