Fantastic Mr. Fox

Fantastic Mr. Fox is both a children's book by Roald Dahl and a recent animated film by Wes Anderson based upon Dahl's work. Over the winter break I read the short children's story, and this past week I had the opportunity to watch the film as well during its limited showing in Richmond's historic Byrd Theater. I had a hunch I would like the book and movie since I'm a big fan of Roald Dahl, stop-motion animation, and Wes Anderson's directorial style. My hunch was a good one!

Fantastic Mr. Fox tells the story of a fox who is fantastic at doing what foxes do best. Unfortunately, he finds himself in serious trouble when he gives in to his wild animal nature and steals from Boggis, Bunce, and Bean, the three meanest farmers in the country who stop at no ends to revenge their losses on Mr. Fox. This trouble is extended to the lives of his family and friends (badgers, beavers, rabbits, etc.), and in the film Mr. Fox sorrowfully explains to his wife why he has jeopardized his life and family. He confesses that he is a wild animal, and that he always lives with the pressure of wanting to be seen as a "fantastic" fox in the eyes of others. In light of his remorse, Mr. Fox turns to meet the needs of his family and friends, and is supported through their efforts in rescuing them all from the "crooked" farmers.

I certainly appreciated the humor as well as the nuggets of truth dispersed throughout the book and film. I find it true for myself that I often give in to my sinful nature as I struggle to be esteemed in the eyes of those I love and admire, when in actuality this only leads me to trouble and negatively affects them as well. Yet upon recognizing my sinful nature and my shortcomings, I find support from family and friends, knowing that they love me despite my faults and erring tendencies, and that happiness is found in caring for the needs and enjoying time spent with those I love.

The book is very short - an easy read - and very simple, intended for young children. The movie is rated PG and, while faithful to the book, brings the story to life through various additions that I felt enhanced the story. Overall I would describe both the book and the film as "fantastic."