Illustrated by Charlie Mackesy in 2019 ‘The Boy, the Mole, the Fox, and the Horse’ is an amazing book. In the winter of 2022, the book got its digital adaptation which aired on BBC One and Apple Streaming Services. It was voiced by some amazing figures like Jude Coward Nicoll, Tom Hollander, Idris Elba, and Gabriel Byrne. It turned out to be an excellent production and won many hearts on both local and global levels. What’s so special you may ask? Well, we have nine epic reasons listing why this is a great watch (may include spoilers). Let’s jump in, shall we?
Before we begin, if you have an official provider like Spectrum or any other popular brand, try to look for it in the subscribed streaming collection. However, you can also download it and watch it offline. Now back to the subject!
It’s Only 34 Minutes Long!
One may think that it’s a small duration for a masterpiece, but this one suggests otherwise. It’s only 34 minutes long! Yes, that’s right. It’s a quick adaptation that you can get done within a jiffy. There is no commitment of a long-term movie that requires at least 90 minutes or more of your spare time to understand and enjoy the visuals. Even half an hour is more than enough to know and absorb all that you need. All the messages have been perfectly timed to make every minute of the duration feel worthwhile.
A Cozy Family Watch
You can watch it with your kids or siblings or parents. Nothing is triggering about the theme or subject which makes it an age-appropriate material. All you need is people you treasure and around 30 minutes of dedicated time. The snowy winter palette makes it a perfect stream for Christmas, Thanksgiving, or other family events in chilly weather. You can have some quality time with your family as everyone comes together to watch this.
Addresses Big Feelings
There are many thought-provoking moments in the content that relay messages of self-worth, solitude, kindness, self-love, compassion, resilience, and transparency. In the last three years, the importance of mental health and emotional well-being has become apparent. People are starting to acknowledge and understand the validity of feelings. To address all such magnificent emotions through a 34-minute animated piece is truly remarkable. The emotions aren’t just palpable but are introduced as natural elements of the plot. We believe that everyone needs to see such a moving yet light-hearted take on bothersome and positive emotions.
Soothing Animation Style
Incorporating a variety of untamed sketches with impactful dialogues, this adaptation is truly marvelous. In the era of cutting-edge and defined animation, we rarely see something hand-drawn and delightfully scattered. This movie commemorates such styles with a heartfelt commitment and gentle colors. From the minute you start watching, the combined elements of the animation and pleasant tones establish a sense of comfort. While the style looks whimsical, the messages are way more mature and deep-rooted. If you want something easy on the eyes and senses, we definitely recommend streaming this.
Great Life Lessons and Symbolism
The fragility yet delicacy of human existence is well-depicted in the movie. We have a young boy and three animals representing different parts of the same personality. According to this review, we have a gentle and curious boy assisted by an enthusiastic mole, a pained fox with trust issues, and a wise and soulful horse with answers for almost everything. Inquisition, tenacity, vulnerability, transformation, and love are symbolized in extraordinary visual flows. On the surface, it might seem like a simple piece but even scraping a little can reveal such exceptional layers that you can’t help but witness and feel.
Makes Profound Topics Digestible
No complex theories, no complicated dialogues, only vibes. The quotes are so sentimental and beautifully delivered yet they don’t feel like declarations. Humans are naturally curious, we come across many subjects we don’t understand or don’t find comfortable discussing. This adaptation takes the responsibility of presenting all the interactions in a comforting manner. Universal truths that transcend languages and experiences are much appreciated in such a fast-paced world. An impressionable piece by Charlie, it truly has the power to spark something dormant in you. There are many beautiful lines in the book/movie, you can find most of them here.
Emphasizes Unique Friendships
One of the best indirect messages in the adaptation is the novelty of friendships. We see a human with three different creatures, everyone with a unique self and quirks. All of them are teaching and learning. The way they converse feels so familiar as if you are listening to a close group talk about life. In a world where differences are glorified to an unpleasant extent, a ground of similarities and companionship is very important.
Wisdom for All Ages
It would be extremely unfair to label this as a children’s watch. The lessons and themes it preaches apply to all age groups. From children to adults and elders, everyone can use the gentleness it exudes. It addresses, acknowledges, and assures in an open and consoling manner. The approach can act as a positive foundation for young minds. It will give you something to ponder on and discuss with your cherished circle as well. A collection of concepts and messages that people of every age and experience can explore, it is something that will deeply resonate with you.
Teaches Confrontation and Healing
There are many obstacles we come across. But healing is essential to being alive. This project was and maybe still is a very unconventional release due to the themes and morals. All global communities need a form of art that allows people to explore difficult emotions in a lenient and accepting manner. This book/movie has something so therapeutic that allows people to embrace their feelings and move forward in a powerful shape.