The 2018 live-action/CGI hybrid Peter Rabbit, directed by Will Gluck, offers a modernized take on Beatrix Potter’s beloved characters. With a mix of slapstick humor, heartfelt moments, and vibrant animation, the film presents a fresh adaptation of the classic tales, though not without some divisive updates to its tone and story.

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Plot Overview

The story centers on Peter Rabbit (voiced by James Corden), a mischievous but lovable rabbit who lives in the English countryside with his sisters Flopsy (Margot Robbie), Mopsy (Elizabeth Debicki), and Cotton-Tail (Daisy Ridley), along with their cousin Benjamin Bunny (Colin Moody). Peter has long been at odds with Mr. McGregor (Sam Neill), whose vegetable garden is a constant source of temptation for the rabbits.

When Mr. McGregor suddenly dies, Peter and his family take over the garden, reveling in their newfound freedom. However, their peace is short-lived when Thomas McGregor (Domhnall Gleeson), a distant relative, inherits the property. Thomas, an uptight city dweller, quickly becomes a new rival for Peter, leading to a series of escalating pranks and battles. Meanwhile, Thomas begins to fall for his neighbor, Bea (Rose Byrne), a kind-hearted artist who adores the rabbits, creating further tension.

Tone and Humor

Unlike the gentle, pastoral tone of Beatrix Potter’s original books, Peter Rabbit adopts a fast-paced, irreverent style with contemporary humor. The film leans heavily into slapstick comedy, particularly in the conflict between Peter and Thomas. While some of the gags are genuinely funny—especially Thomas’s increasingly absurd attempts to outwit the rabbits—others rely on exaggerated physical humor that may feel out of place for fans of the source material.

James Corden’s portrayal of Peter Rabbit is full of energy and charisma, though his cocky and brash personality is a significant departure from the mischievous yet innocent character of the books. This update to Peter’s character has divided audiences, with some appreciating the modernized take and others finding it too abrasive.

Characters and Performances

The film’s characters are a mix of charming and eccentric. Domhnall Gleeson’s portrayal of Thomas McGregor is a comedic highlight; he fully commits to the role, embracing the absurdity of his escalating rivalry with Peter while also delivering a surprisingly endearing romantic subplot with Bea. Rose Byrne brings warmth and sincerity to Bea, serving as a bridge between the humans and the animals, though her character often feels underdeveloped compared to the leads.

The supporting voice cast, including Margot Robbie, Daisy Ridley, and Elizabeth Debicki, add personality to Peter’s siblings, but their roles are largely secondary. The dynamic between the rabbits provides some sweet family moments, though the focus remains on Peter’s antics.

Animation and Visuals

The visual effects are impressive, with the CGI rabbits blending seamlessly into the live-action environment. The animation captures the charm of the characters while giving them expressive, lifelike movements that enhance the comedic and emotional beats. The English countryside is beautifully realized, maintaining a touch of the idyllic setting from Potter’s original illustrations while accommodating the film’s modern sensibilities.

Themes

Peter Rabbit explores themes of family, forgiveness, and coexistence, though these are sometimes overshadowed by the humor and action. The rivalry between Peter and Thomas serves as the film’s central conflict, but it eventually gives way to a message about reconciliation and finding common ground. While these themes add heart to the story, they can feel a bit rushed in the film’s resolution.

Criticism

One of the film’s most significant criticisms is its departure from the tone and spirit of Beatrix Potter’s work. The original Peter Rabbit stories are known for their gentle wit and understated charm, qualities that are largely replaced here by a more chaotic and modern approach. This tonal shift has led some viewers to see the film as a loose adaptation rather than a faithful retelling.

Additionally, certain jokes have sparked controversy, such as a scene where the rabbits exploit Thomas’s food allergy—a gag that many found insensitive. While the filmmakers later apologized, this moment highlights how the film’s humor occasionally missteps.

Legacy and Appeal

Peter Rabbit ultimately succeeds as a lighthearted family film, appealing to younger audiences with its humor and visual spectacle. However, fans of Beatrix Potter’s books may find the film’s modernization and comedic style jarring. It stands as an entertaining, if uneven, adaptation that reimagines a classic character for a new generation.

Final Thoughts

While Peter Rabbit (2018) may not fully capture the charm of its literary origins, it offers a fun and visually appealing adventure for families. Its humor and modernized storytelling may divide audiences, but for those willing to embrace the changes, it delivers plenty of laughs and heart.