Common Sense Media Review
By Ashley Moulton
,
based on child development research. How do we rate?
Magical, lyrical adaptation of classic tearjerker.
Parents Need to Know
Why Age 6+?
Any Positive Content?
Where to Watch
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The Velveteen Rabbit
What's the Story?
In THE VELVETEEN RABBIT, a 7-year-old boy named William (Phoenix Laroche) moves and has a hard time making new friends. He receives a stuffed animal rabbit for Christmas, which becomes his best friend. They go on many imaginary adventures together. When William isn't around, the Velveteen Rabbit (Alex Lawther) comes alive and talks to the other toys in the house. From the Wise Horse (Helena Bonham Carter), the rabbit learns that when a child loves a toy, the toy becomes "real." William becomes severely ill with scarlet fever. The other toys warn the Velveteen Rabbit that he'll be burned to keep the disease from spreading, but the rabbit chooses to comfort William anyway. After William recovers, the Velveteen Rabbit is indeed placed on the burn pile. The Playroom Fairy saves the toy and grants his wish, making him into a real bunny. The real rabbit says one last goodbye to William, and William feels brave enough to make new friends.
Is It Any Good?
This special exquisitely captures the tender moments between a boy and his beloved "stuffie." The Velveteen Rabbit is a beautiful meditation on children's imagination and wonder. In some ways, it will appeal to adults more than children. It's a British period drama, and is much more slow-paced and cinematic than a lot of kids' content. Adults will respond to the themes of lost childhood innocence, which will go over kids' heads. However, kids will really enjoy the magic of seeing the Velveteen Rabbit come alive and talk, and the validation of the strong bonds they form with that special stuffed friend. Adults and kids alike should be prepared to watch with a box of tissues, and to work through your sniffles together.
Talk to Your Kids About ...
Families can talk about if they think stuffed animals can become "real" if they are loved enough. Even if they can't be "real," how are the toys you love important to you?
How did it make you feel to see the Velveteen Rabbit separated from William?
TV Details
- Premiere date : November 22, 2023
- Cast : Helena Bonham Carter , Alex Lawther , Phoenix Laroche
- Network : Apple TV
- Genre : Drama
- Topics : Fantasy ( Magic ) , Book Characters , Friendship , Holidays
- TV rating :
- Award : Emmy - Emmy Award Winner
- Last updated : November 21, 2025
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