matechcorp.com – Ferdinand (2017) is a vibrant animated film that tells the story of a gentle bull who refuses to conform to traditional expectations of what it means to be a “bull.” Based on the beloved 1936 children’s book The Story of Ferdinand by Munro Leaf and Robert Lawson, the film adapts this timeless story into a full-length feature, exploring themes of identity, kindness, and the importance of being true to oneself.
Produced by Blue Sky Studios and released by 20th Century Fox, Ferdinand is a heartfelt and visually stunning film that combines humor, adventure, and important life lessons. Directed by Carlos Saldanha, who is best known for his work on Rio (2011) and the Ice Age series, Ferdinand brings together a talented voice cast, including John Cena as the titular Ferdinand, Kate McKinnon, and Bobby Cannavale, and offers a charming story that is both entertaining and thought-provoking.
In this article, we will explore the plot, characters, animation style, themes, and cultural impact of Ferdinand, examining how the film builds on the message of its original book and offers a modern, animated take on the story. From its focus on nonviolence and individuality to its celebration of friendship and family, Ferdinand stands out as a film that resonates with both children and adults alike.
Plot Overview: A Bull’s Quest for Freedom
The story of Ferdinand revolves around the journey of a young bull named Ferdinand (voiced by John Cena), who is raised on a peaceful farm in Spain. From a very young age, Ferdinand is different from the other bulls. Instead of seeking to prove his strength or aggression, he has a love for flowers, tranquility, and the peaceful life. He is depicted as kind-hearted, sensitive, and calm, traits that set him apart from the other bulls who are raised to be fierce and battle-ready for bullfighting.
Ferdinand’s Peaceful Life and His Escape
Ferdinand’s idyllic childhood is disrupted when a series of events lead to his capture by the authorities. One day, after being mistaken for a dangerous bull due to his size and strength, he is taken away from the farm and brought to the “Casa del Toro” (the House of the Bull), a facility where bulls are prepared for bullfights. Ferdinand, however, does not fit in with the rowdy and aggressive bulls that reside there. His gentle nature makes him an outcast among the other bulls, who mock him for his refusal to embrace their violent culture.
After being placed in the dangerous world of bullfighting, Ferdinand is determined to escape and return to his peaceful life. He befriends a quirky group of animals, including a trio of goats, a hedgehog named Una, and a horse named Paco, all of whom help him in his quest for freedom. Together, they hatch a plan to escape the bullfighting ring and make their way back to Ferdinand’s home on the farm.
Throughout his journey, Ferdinand faces numerous challenges and confrontations with characters who embody the harsh expectations placed on bulls, including the intimidating bullfighter El Primero (voiced by Miguel Ángel Silvestre), who believes Ferdinand is the ideal bull for the upcoming fight. Ferdinand, however, remains resolute in his desire to avoid violence and live a life of peace and freedom.
A Journey of Self-Discovery
Ferdinand’s journey is not just one of physical escape, but also one of self-discovery. He grapples with the idea of what it means to be a “bull,” questioning societal expectations and norms. As the film progresses, Ferdinand learns that it’s not his physical strength that defines him but his ability to remain true to his values. This internal journey reflects the broader message of the film: that individuality, kindness, and nonviolence are virtues worth fighting for.
The film culminates in a heartwarming and action-packed finale where Ferdinand must stand up to protect those he loves, proving that true strength comes from inner courage, not brute force.
Characters: A Diverse Cast of Memorable Personalities
Ferdinand – The Gentle Bull
Ferdinand, voiced by professional wrestler and actor John Cena, is the heart and soul of the film. Ferdinand is large and strong but possesses a gentle and peaceful nature that defies traditional expectations of what it means to be a bull. He is kind-hearted, compassionate, and empathetic, making him an ideal protagonist for a story about embracing who you truly are.
Cena’s voice work brings warmth and sincerity to the character of Ferdinand, conveying the bull’s struggle to find his place in a world that demands aggression and strength. Ferdinand’s character is an excellent role model for children, as he teaches valuable lessons about being true to yourself, standing up for what you believe in, and rejecting violence.
Lupe – The Goofy Goat
Lupe (voiced by Kate McKinnon) is one of Ferdinand’s closest allies in his quest for freedom. She is a quirky, fun-loving, and somewhat scatterbrained goat who serves as the comic relief in the film. While she may not always have the best ideas or the most refined wisdom, Lupe’s loyalty to Ferdinand and her determination to help him make her a lovable and endearing character.
Lupe provides much of the humor in the film, as her antics and misunderstandings often lead to hilarious situations. However, underneath her goofiness, Lupe also has a big heart and a deep sense of loyalty. She encourages Ferdinand to embrace his true self and helps him in his quest to escape the bullfighting world.
The Other Bulls
The other bulls in Ferdinand are depicted as energetic, brash, and aggressive. They are raised with the belief that being strong and fierce is the ultimate goal. Among them, we meet the arrogant and tough Toro (voiced by Bobby Cannavale), who initially mocks Ferdinand for not being “like the other bulls.” However, as the story unfolds, we see the potential for growth in these characters, as Ferdinand’s kindness and courage begin to influence them.
The interactions between Ferdinand and the other bulls highlight the contrast between violence and nonviolence, with Ferdinand’s quiet strength gradually earning him respect, even from those who once viewed him as weak.
El Primero – The Bullfighter
El Primero (voiced by Miguel Ángel Silvestre) is the main antagonist of the film. A charismatic and confident bullfighter, he is determined to face the fiercest bull in the ring, and he believes that Ferdinand is the perfect candidate. However, El Primero’s aggressive nature stands in stark contrast to Ferdinand’s peaceful demeanor, making him a symbolic representation of the violence that Ferdinand rejects. As the story progresses, El Primero’s obsession with proving his strength creates a tension that drives the narrative toward a dramatic conclusion.
The Supporting Characters
In addition to the main characters, Ferdinand features a colorful array of supporting characters that add depth to the story. These include the three quirky goats, who provide guidance and support to Ferdinand, as well as Paco the horse, who becomes one of Ferdinand’s allies. Together, these characters represent the power of teamwork, friendship, and the importance of standing together against forces that seek to divide or harm.
Animation Style: Bright, Beautiful, and Lively
Ferdinand features stunning animation that brings the world of the story to life with vibrant colors, detailed landscapes, and dynamic character designs. The film’s animation is bright and appealing, with a style that blends realism with the playful and exaggerated designs of the characters.
The design of Ferdinand himself is particularly noteworthy. He is a large, muscular bull, but his facial expressions and body language convey a sensitivity and gentleness that sets him apart from the traditional depictions of bulls in media. The use of soft, rounded shapes in Ferdinand’s design adds to his approachable and lovable character.
The animation of the various settings—from the peaceful Spanish countryside to the chaotic and colorful bullfighting arena—effectively captures the contrast between Ferdinand’s peaceful nature and the violent world he must navigate. The action sequences are fast-paced and exciting, especially during the dramatic escape scenes, but the film also takes moments to slow down and focus on the quieter, more emotional aspects of the story.
Themes: Courage, Kindness, and Nonviolence
The Power of Nonviolence
At its core, Ferdinand is a film about rejecting violence and embracing peace. Ferdinand’s journey is one of self-discovery as he learns that true strength comes from kindness and compassion, not from physical power. His refusal to fight in the bullfighting ring is a powerful statement against the glorification of violence and aggression, especially in a world that often rewards brute force.
Ferdinand’s determination to remain peaceful, even when faced with danger, sends a strong message to children and adults alike that it is possible to stand firm in your beliefs without resorting to violence. His story encourages viewers to find strength in their gentleness and to embrace their unique qualities without feeling the need to conform to societal expectations.
Acceptance and Individuality
Another important theme in Ferdinand is the celebration of individuality and the importance of accepting who you are. Throughout the film, Ferdinand is pressured to conform to the traditional expectations of what it means to be a bull: strong, aggressive, and willing to fight. However, Ferdinand’s refusal to fit into this mold—choosing instead to embrace his love for flowers and peace—sends a clear message that it is okay to be different.
The film encourages viewers to embrace their own individuality and to not let external pressures dictate their identity. Ferdinand’s journey shows that true happiness and fulfillment come from being true to yourself, regardless of what others may think.
Friendship and Loyalty
The theme of friendship is another key element in Ferdinand. Throughout the film, Ferdinand’s friends and allies demonstrate the power of loyalty and support. Whether it’s the goofy Lupe, the quirky goats, or Ferdinand’s animal friends, each character plays an important role in helping Ferdinand achieve his goals. Their collective efforts highlight the importance of teamwork and the idea that we are stronger when we support each other.
The film also underscores the idea that true strength lies not in physical power, but in the ability to stand by those you care about, even in the face of adversity.
Conclusion: A Timeless Story with Modern Relevance
Ferdinand (2017) is a beautifully animated, emotionally resonant film that delivers powerful messages about kindness, courage, and the importance of being true to yourself. The story of Ferdinand’s peaceful journey in a world that celebrates aggression resonates with audiences of all ages and offers valuable lessons for children growing up in an often-violent world.
With its stunning visuals, heartwarming characters, and timeless themes, Ferdinand proves to be more than just a children’s movie. It is a story that encourages empathy, celebrates individuality, and promotes nonviolence in a way that is accessible to audiences young and old.
In a world where conflict and aggression often dominate the headlines, Ferdinand serves as a much-needed reminder that true strength comes from compassion, understanding, and the courage to be yourself. It is a film that will continue to inspire audiences for years to come, making it a modern animated classic.
