In the realm of tales where playthings come to life, few stories resonate as deeply as “The Velveteen Rabbit.” While this enchanting narrative of a toy rabbit yearning to become real is widely known in the UK, thanks in part to Chandler’s mention in Friends, it gains an extra layer of poignancy through its connection to the late Matthew Perry.
What is it about toys springing to life that pulls at the heartstrings? Whether it’s the poignant scenes of The Snowman or the emotional rollercoaster of Toy Story 3, these stories often delve into the realms of childhood innocence and the inevitable theme of loss. The Velveteen Rabbit, penned by Margery Williams in 1922, stands out in this genre, weaving a touching story about a stuffed bunny’s quest for reality.
Despite the dry humor woven by British-born Williams, this classic is more celebrated in the US, where it has sold over a million copies. Last year marked its centenary with widespread acclaim, but for some in the UK, it’s the two Friends episodes involving Matthew Perry’s Chandler that solidify its place in popular culture, adding an extra layer of emotion to an already tear-jerking tale.
Now, with numerous US adaptations in the books, the first significant British version has arrived, led by Tom Bidwell, known for his work on the BBC’s 2018 adaptation of Watership Down. Bidwell infuses the story with picturesque settings, inter-war charm, and a supplementary plot involving a house move, providing a fresh perspective on the protagonist, William, beautifully portrayed by Phoenix Laroche.
Bidwell’s version adds complexity to the narrative, introducing new layers of logic that, at times, challenge the internal coherence of the story. Despite this, the film’s core message remains intact – that love is what makes us real. From a swelling score to lingering shots capturing sorrowful faces, the film embraces its maudlin tone, anchored by the relatable emotional truth of William’s isolation and his heart-rending friendship with the velveteen rabbit, voiced with a perfect mix of trembling naivety and inner strength by Alex Lawther.
While the adaptation might not become a Christmas TV staple, nor elevate the source material to classic status in its home country, it delivers a pleasing dose of fuzzy sentimentality. “The Velveteen Rabbit” unfolds as a heartfelt journey, destined to touch even the toughest of hearts, especially with the added magic of the Matthew Perry connection.