The Boy, the Mole, the Fox and the Horse
The Boy, the Mole, the Fox and the Horse
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A Lot or a Little?
The parents' guide to what's in this movie.
What Parents Need to Know
Parents need to know that The Boy, the Mole, the Fox and the Horse is a short film based on the popular children's book by Charlie Mackesy. It follows the journey of a boy (voiced by Jude Coward Nicoll) who's looking for home; on his way, he meets three animals who help and advise him on life's big questions. Expect a few moments of peril, such as when the other animals are threatened by the fox (Idris Elba) and when a character nearly drowns crossing a wild river. But overall this gentle special is beautifully animated and deliberately paced, and families of all ages will appreciate its lessons.
What's the Story?
A young boy quietly wanders a snowy landscape. He eventually meets a mole (Tom Hollander), and they begin traveling together. The boy is in search of his home, but he's not sure where it is. When the pair are pursued by a fox (voiced by Idris Elba) and meet a majestic horse (Gabriel Byrne), a gentle adventure ensues, and lots of wisdom is shared in the process.
Is It Any Good?
For being so visually chilly, this short film absolutely radiates warmth and wonder. The Boy, the Mole, the Fox and the Horse is slightly otherworldly and a little haunting, like predecessors in tone The Snowman, Winnie the Pooh, and The Little Prince, but it's steeped in realistic natural landscapes and deceptively casual conversations. In lesser hands, the film and its many lessons could feel saccharine, but each line is grounded in authenticity, thanks to the writing and expert cast of British actors. It's a lovely new winter classic that families won't want to miss.
Talk to Your Kids About ...
Families can talk about family and home. What does it mean to have a home? A family? Do people have to be related to you to be family?
How does the boy form friendships with all the animals he meets over time? What challenges does he face in doing so?
Movie Details
- On DVD or streaming: December 25, 2022
- Cast: Idris Elba, Tom Hollander, Gabriel Byrne
- Director: Peter Baynton
- Studio: Apple TV+
- Genre: Family and Kids
- Topics: Wild Animals
- Run time: 35 minutes
- MPAA rating: NR
- Award: Common Sense Selection
- Last updated: December 27, 2022
Our Editors Recommend
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The Little Prince
Gorgeous classic about friendship, love, and life.
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The Snowman
Muddled, dull serial killer thriller has gory violence.
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The Gruffalo
Favorite book adaptation promotes brains over brawn.
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