Hi. Yes. Hello and welcome to the channel. If you're new here, hi. My name is Ashley and if you're a returner, oh, welcome back. I literally have zero idea about this one.
If you haven't seen the title or read the thumbnail, we are watching Watership Down from 1978. How did we get here? Great question. So, we watched The Thin Man for Hall Beans winner Christopher Kaylor a few Mondays ago. This is actually Hello Beans winner Steve's request. This is from Steve and it took him a he thought long and hard about this one.
Okay, it took him a couple weeks to decide on what he wanted me to watch. And I was just like, "Hey, no worries. Take your time." And he came back and he said this movie right here, Watership Down, I don't know anything about it other than two things. He mentioned it's animated, which I love animated movies. We have a few on the channel, not a lot, but a few. And he said that fellow Gen Xers are going to appreciate this one.
So, I don't know if I'm going to know anybody in this or recognize any voices. I don't know if I'm going to recognize any voices. He said, "Fellow Gen Xers." So, like is this going to be like, you know, Blazing Saddles, like uh kind of like that kind of humor like shock humor like that? Like something that as a millennial I'm going to feel differently about. Is it Gen X? Like, you know, y'all grew up with some really twisted stuff. So, am I going to be terrorized? I don't know. I have no idea. I don't even know what Watership Down means. I don't know.
This is the most unprepared I have been for a movie in a very long time. And uh I think we're in for a real treat. So no more little dingy. Let's get right on into this Millennial Movie Monday, which is Watership Down from 1978.
This film starts with the Great Frith creating the world and all the animals. The story quickly reveals the prince of rabbits, El-Ahrairah, and their profound tale filled with trials, survival, and the cycle of life. I delve into thoughts on the spiritual narrative portrayed through the rabbits' tale, relatable to themes like Adam and Eve's story.
As the story unfolds, we encounter the concept of danger looming over the warren, prompting the rabbits led by Hazel and Fiver to embark on a journey for safety. Their path is fraught with challenges, embodying themes of prophecy and destiny, as Fiver's premonitions guide their escape.
A discussion on the societal hierarchy and survival tactics plays out as they navigate treacherous territories and meet other rabbit groups, each symbolizing different socio-political dynamics. The fear of being trapped or controlled is mirrored in their interactions with other warrens.
Despite its seemingly simple premise of rabbits seeking safety, 'Watership Down' is dense with allegorical depth, touching upon themes of leadership, community, and the resilience needed to survive in a constantly threatening world.
In reflection, this movie is not just a classic animated film; it's a poignant exploration of survival, leadership, and freedom. The ending circles back to the idea of life cycles, as Hazel is guided by the Black Rabbit of Inle, illustrating the perpetual journey of existence.
The film concludes with thematic richness, offering viewers much to ponder. While I am left with more questions than answers, I found 'Watership Down' a thought-provoking film that resonates with deeper meanings beyond its narrative facade.