Peter Rabbit Kids Movie Review - Life Lessons Peter Teaches Children in New Film

Movies

MBE partnered with Sony Pictures for this post

Don't be late for Peter Rabbit, the upcoming live action, animated family-friendly comedy film from Columbia Pictures that opens Friday, February 9th. 

That's because from the moment the lights go out, you and your kids will be mesmerized by some truly entertaining non-stop fun and action, gracefully executed animation and engaging interaction between the tale's CGI creatures and Rose Byrne (Bea) and Domhnall Gleeson (Mr. McGregor) who play the lead human roles. The headliners are backed by an amazing cast of voice actors you'll recognize and love.

Courtesy of Columbia Pictures

How exciting it was to screen this movie in advance of release as well as attend the feature film's launch festivities, including a live interview with the cast during the press junket. I also had the opportunity to participate in a fun follow up event at Build-A-Bear to create my very own soft, fluffy talking Peter Rabbit to take home -- more about that experience soon!

Getting back to the press junket: Don't you just love the British-garden inspired Dolce & Gabbana floral dress Rose wore for the press conference at The London Hotel in West Hollywood? What a perfect rose garden print pattern that reflects the essence of who she is both on and off the screen!

Courtesy of Columbia Pictures

Now let's get right to it and talk about why you should consider seeing this motion picture. For starters... based on the iconic children's literary series by Beatrix Potter currently celebrating its 150th anniversary, this movie brings the same beloved timeless and wholesome characters you and I remember from our own childhoods to a whole new generation of modern kids. 

At the same time, the screenplay remains true to past generations (including some classic cameo appearances of the original bunnies on the big screen) making it likely to be a movie grandparents and great-grandparents will enjoy seeing and discussing afterward with the youngest members of the family. As a matter of fact, I wouldn't be surprised if families rushed home from theaters and immediately started reading together from the classic books which have informed and inspired the Peter Rabbit movie.

Behind the Scenes At the Junket

In this vivid 2018 feature adaptation, the story of the original Peter Rabbit, continues, this time with Peter stepping bravely into the limelight and challenges of Mr. McGregor's garden, now that he and his siblings are orphans. Joining him on his quest in the movie version are Peter's triplet sisters Flopsy, Mopsy, and Cotton-Tail. As a real-life mom of four, including a big brother, followed by triplets -- I could not leave out that little bit of multiples movie trivia!

If your movie watching experience is anything like mine, watching the realistic movements of the computer-generated rabbits, especially when they are being "held" by the live actors, you will have a hard time convincing yourself that no live bunnies were used in the film footage. 

Also, in on the action and frivolity, you'll enjoy the antics of a variety of other artistically rendered and convincingly depicted animated forest and barnyard friends like Mrs. Tiggy-Winkle and Benjamin Bunny, among others. Likewise, if you are devoted to the hobby of gardening like me, I think you're going to really appreciate the well-tended vegetable garden and farm scenes before the wildlife slips in to change things up a bit.

At the Los Angeles Premiere

Peter Rabbit premiered on Saturday at The Grove in Los Angeles with the cast, director, crew members and many special guests on hand including Peter Rabbit himself. A pre-party full of treats and fun and activities entertained the little ones until it was time for everyone to go into the theater and see the movie.

Courtesy of Columbia Pictures

Peter Rabbit's Life Lessons for Kids

This movie has so many teachable moments, Without divulging the surprises you'll encounter during the film, Peter Rabbit goes beyond just entertaining its viewers. The movie also shares countless lessons which by example will inspire children. Here are just a few of the many take away messages our sons and daughters can learn.

Thinking Positive 
When all the chips seem to be down, no matter how bad things get, remember that kids should always try and think positive and do their part to potentially turn just about any situation around.

Working Together as a Team
Even when facing seemingly insurmountable odds, working together, kids are stronger and can make great things happen for the greater good through tenacity, friendship, cooperation and hard work.

Looking After Your Siblings & Friends
If you are in the position to take a leadership role to help your brothers, sisters and/or friends to solve problems, don't be afraid to step up to the plate just like Peter Rabbit. There's nothing stopping even a little sister who stands up on behalf of her big brother, if need be.

Making Your Parents Proud
Before you take any action, ask yourself if what you are about to do is something your mom and/or dad would approve of. Don't lose sight of the fact that good parents make good role models for children, helping kids to guide their moral compasses.

About Peter Rabbit
Peter Rabbit from Columbia Pictures opens in theaters nationwide Friday, February 9. Stay in the loop by visiting the official movie site as well as following the film on Facebook.

More Peter Rabbit Fun 

on MBE to Come!

Stay tuned: We'll be posting lots more fun Peter Rabbit stuff here on MBE including special recipes, crafts and free downloadable printouts your kids will enjoy.

FTC Disclosure: I was hosted by Sony Pictures for the press junket, a series of Peter Rabbit Movie promotional events, and received other perks to facilitate coverage and review. Opinions here are MBE's own. All photos by MBE, unless noted otherwise. See complete FTC Disclosure that appears at the bottom of MBE's home page and at the bottom of every individual post including this one.