The latest Hollywood adaptation of an ageless tale, Peter Rabbit, is a fine example of appreciating something in the moment and discarding it afterward. I didn't dislike this movie, but I'm not sure you should go see it in theaters.
Director Will Gluck's take on the tale of rebellious rabbits defending their home against evil Brits is like drinking a Budweiser. You'll drink it willingly, enjoy it for the most part, but throw it away for another the minute it is empty. Two days after watching this film, I can think of some funny moments (Domhnall Gleeson getting zapped across the house via an electrically powered door handle is one of them), but overall, little about the film is retained.
Peter, Benjamin and company just want to be able to come and go in their neighbor's garden whenever they please. A simple request that gets vehemently denied by the elder farmer (Sam Neill), and only gets worse when his nephew (Gleeson) inherits the estate, and preps it for sale while building a fortress around the garden when Peter and his pals like to hang out. A battle of wills develops, and let's just say some inhumane actions place between animal and human that may offend, but most likely will cause a lot of laughter.
The film groups together a talented cast in Rose Byrne, the young Gleeson, and Sam Neill while throwing in voice work by the likes of James Corden, Margot Robbie and Sia. They all do their job particularly well, especially Gleeson, who goes from Star Wars evil general who Oscar Isaac doesn't take seriously to a Scrooge-like grump who experiences a transformation of humanity when rabbits poison, beat, electrocute, sabotage, and all together mangle his life inside a matter of days.
If you've read Beatrix Potter's beloved stories, you'll know how this movie ends, and where it is going once the theater hits play. There's sweetness, delight, boredom, and some comfort in knowing the running time spins right along. In the end, it just doesn't add up to much.
This is a movie where if you are in the mood to laugh and enjoy a film, Peter Rabbit will roll over you quite easily. If you are a cynic who hates simple jokes and classic tales, you'll roll your eyes and wait for the credits. The kids will love this movie, and the adults will either stomach it with a few of those Budweisers, or laugh a lot.
When I watched this film with my wife and son, I didn't need alcohol, but I can't say I'd go out of my way to recommend it.
Peter Rabbit is easy on the eyes and senses, and its lightness keeps you from dreading the running time, but also makes it easy to fade away once you are back in your car.
Final diagnosis: Score a notch in your good parent booklet, and take the kids to this one. Films like Peter Rabbit are all about expectations, and if you keep them low, perhaps a good time can be had by all.
