Watership Down at Revival House Perth
Fair warning: this 1978 animated classic about rabbits is NOT a children's film in the Disney sense—it's a harrowing tale of survival, fascism, and freedom that traumatized a generation of kids who expected something fluffy. Martin Rosen's adaptation of Richard Adams' beloved novel remains one of animation's most beautiful and brutal achievements.
When young rabbit Fiver has a terrible vision of his warren's destruction, he convinces his brother Hazel and a small band of rabbits to flee their home in search of safety. Their journey across the English countryside becomes an odyssey filled with predators, hostile warrens ruled by authoritarian regimes, and the constant threat of death. These rabbits face down dogs, cats, humans, and other rabbits in their desperate quest for a place to call home.
The animation style is distinctive—painterly backgrounds reminiscent of classic storybook illustrations contrasted with surprisingly graphic violence when rabbits fight and die. Art Garfunkel's haunting "Bright Eyes" became an unlikely hit single, perfectly capturing the film's melancholy meditation on mortality. The voice cast (including John Hurt, Richard Briers, and Zero Mostel) brings dignity to characters who could've been cute cartoon animals but instead feel genuinely heroic and tragic.
This is allegorical storytelling that respects its audience—about totalitarianism, environmental destruction, and the courage required to build something better. The film's reputation as the "scary bunny movie" undersells its artistry and emotional power.
A masterpiece that happens to star rabbits—not for young children, but essential viewing for everyone else.
Presented in authentic 35mm film for the true cinematic experience!
When: Saturday, November 29th at 4:15 PM
Where: Revival House Perth
Rating: PG - Animated violence and disturbing themes
The animated epic that proved cartoons could be art—beautiful, brutal, and unforgettable.
You may also like the following events from The Revival House Perth:
Also check out other
Entertainment events in Perth,
Arts events in Perth,
Music events in Perth.
