Wallace & Gromit: The Curse of the Were-Rabbit – Film Review

Wallace & Gromit: The Curse of the Were-Rabbit is a cinematic gem that not only pays homage to the traditions of British animation but also stands as a masterclass in the art of claymation. Directed by Nick Park and Steve Box, this 2005 film brings to life the beloved characters Wallace, a bumbling inventor, and his loyal and far more intelligent dog, Gromit, in their first full-length feature film. As fans of the series would expect, the film is brimming with charm, wit, and the delightful eccentricity that has made the Wallace & Gromit series a cultural treasure.

The plot of The Curse of the Were-Rabbit is as delightfully quirky as one would expect from a Wallace & Gromit adventure. The film is set in a quaint English village gearing up for the annual Giant Vegetable Competition. The central characters, Wallace and Gromit, run a humane pest control service called “Anti-Pesto,” specializing in safely capturing rabbits that threaten the prized produce of the villagers. However, things take a strange and spooky turn when a monstrous rabbit begins terrorizing the gardens, devouring the giant vegetables that the villagers have been painstakingly cultivating.

The film’s narrative is a clever pastiche of classic monster movies, particularly drawing inspiration from the werewolf genre. The “were-rabbit” is a brilliant twist on the werewolf trope, infusing the story with both humor and suspense. The plot thickens as Wallace, ever the enthusiastic but hapless inventor, attempts to use one of his contraptions to brainwash the captured rabbits into losing their appetite for vegetables. Predictably, this experiment goes awry, leading to Wallace himself becoming the titular were-rabbit.

What follows is a series of humorous and action-packed sequences as Gromit tries to save the day, unravel the mystery of the were-rabbit, and protect the village’s prized vegetables. The storyline balances suspense with slapstick comedy, keeping audiences of all ages entertained and engaged. The pacing is spot-on, never dragging and always moving forward with a sense of purpose and playfulness.

One of the most endearing aspects of The Curse of the Were-Rabbit is the development of its characters, particularly the relationship between Wallace and Gromit. Wallace, voiced by Peter Sallis, is as lovable as ever, embodying the quintessential British eccentric with his peculiar inventions and insatiable love for cheese. However, it is Gromit, the silent, ever-loyal dog, who once again steals the show. Gromit’s expressive eyebrows and subtle gestures convey more emotion and thought than many human characters in live-action films. The silent communication between the two highlights the depth of their bond and adds a layer of warmth and sincerity to the story.

The film also introduces a memorable supporting cast, including Lady Tottington (voiced by Helena Bonham Carter), a wealthy and kind-hearted aristocrat with a passion for gardening, and Victor Quartermaine (voiced by Ralph Fiennes), the film’s antagonist, who is as pompous as he is cowardly. These characters add to the richness of the narrative, providing both conflict and comic relief. Lady Tottington’s budding romance with Wallace is particularly charming, adding a touch of light-hearted romance to the story.

The animation in The Curse of the Were-Rabbit is nothing short of extraordinary. Aardman Animations, the studio behind the film, is known for its painstaking attention to detail, and this film is a testament to their craftsmanship. The claymation technique, in which characters and sets are meticulously crafted from clay and then animated frame by frame, results in a distinctive and tactile visual style that is both endearing and visually stunning.

The film’s aesthetic is rooted in British culture, from the quaint village setting to the lovingly crafted details of Wallace’s inventions. The use of lighting and shadows, particularly in the more suspenseful scenes, adds to the film’s atmosphere, evoking the mood of classic horror films while maintaining a family-friendly tone. The transformation sequences, where Wallace turns into the were-rabbit, are particularly impressive, showcasing the technical prowess of the animators.

Moreover, the film’s attention to detail is astounding. The backgrounds are filled with visual gags and references that reward repeat viewings. From the textures of the clay to the intricate designs of the vegetable gardens, every frame is a work of art. The character designs are also top-notch, with each character’s appearance reflecting their personality traits perfectly.

The humor in The Curse of the Were-Rabbit is quintessentially British, relying on wit, wordplay, and visual gags rather than crude jokes or slapstick. The film is filled with clever puns, such as Anti-Pesto’s slogan, “All Pests, Humanely Removed,” and amusing references to classic films like King Kong and Frankenstein. The dialogue is sharp and well-written, with each character’s lines perfectly capturing their personality.

The film’s humor is accessible to both children and adults, with plenty of jokes that will go over younger viewers’ heads but delight older audiences. Gromit’s deadpan reactions and Wallace’s obliviousness are a constant source of comedy, as is the dynamic between the two. The film also includes several laugh-out-loud moments, such as Wallace’s disastrous attempts to impress Lady Tottington or the chaotic scenes involving the were-rabbit’s rampage.

Beneath its humorous exterior, The Curse of the Were-Rabbit touches on several themes, including the relationship between humans and nature, the consequences of tampering with nature, and the importance of loyalty and friendship. The film’s portrayal of Wallace’s misguided attempts to control nature reflects a broader commentary on humanity’s often futile efforts to dominate the natural world. However, the film never becomes preachy, instead delivering its messages with a light touch and plenty of humor.

The theme of friendship is central to the film, particularly the bond between Wallace and Gromit. Despite Wallace’s flaws and frequent mistakes, Gromit remains loyal and resourceful, always ready to save the day. This theme is reinforced by the film’s resolution, which emphasizes the importance of working together and accepting one’s limitations.

Wallace & Gromit: The Curse of the Were-Rabbit is a delightful and charming film that showcases the best of British animation. With its engaging plot, well-developed characters, stunning animation, and witty humor, it is a film that appeals to audiences of all ages. While it may not be as groundbreaking as some of Aardman’s other works, it is a lovingly crafted homage to classic monster movies and a testament to the enduring appeal of Wallace and Gromit. The film’s blend of humor, heart, and visual creativity makes it a must-watch for fans of animation and a worthy addition to the Wallace & Gromit legacy.