Article written by PhoenixOnline writer Victoria Vakser ’26
The Boy, the Mole, the Fox, and the Horse (2022) / Apple TV+/ BBC
“’What do you want to be when you grow up?'”
“‘Kind,’ said the boy.”
– The Boy, the Mole, the Fox, and the Horse (2022)
The Boy, the Mole, the Fox and the Horse, a short film the sophomores watched during their Assembly period on April 21, is based on a book of the same title by Charlie Mackesy. The film, like the book, explores themes like compassion, friendship, and acceptance through the adventures of a young boy and his three animal friends.
Sophomore Charlotte Spahn said, “I read the book a few years ago so I was delighted to learn we’d be watching the film in school. What I love about the message is the importance of fitting in but also of being yourself when doing so. Sometimes that can be difficult in school.”
Assistant Principal for Guidance, Mr. Lyons could not praise the film highly enough. “It’s a really powerful animation because it shows the growth that can come from being vulnerable, the growth that can come from being in discomfort.”
The film was first introduced to the sophomores five years ago, and Mr. Lyons hopes its viewing will become a Kellenberg tradition.
“There are just so many good messages. Each time I watch it I pick up something new,” Mr. Lyons attested.
Mr. Lyons stated that the film is presented to sophomores because the tenth grade represents a period of significant personal development. He noted that unlike freshmen, sophomores have become more acclimated to the school environment with longevity of their high school careers in front of them. This unique positioning provides an enduring framework that enables students to focus effectively on self-improvement.
Keira Seward said, “It kind of hit deep. A lot of kids probably find it hard to find their crew, ya know, their group? But when we do, it’s worth it. The movie showed the value of that experience.”
After the film, all the tenth graders then participated in a discussion guided by their homeroom moderators. The discussion ranged widely, regarding Lent, mercy, God’s love, and modern society.
The Assembly concluded with a consideration of how the film, and the students’ lives, might reflect Pope Francis’ advice to “stay close to your friends who may be smiling on the outside but weeping within for lack of hope. Do not let yourselves be infected by indifference and individualism.”
Mr. Lyons further noted that the film is particularly well-suited for Kellenberg due to its diverse student body, explaining that despite many differences, the characters support one another in a unified mission. Ultimately, he emphasized that this dynamic mirrors the exact culture of mutual support the school envisions for its students.
Last year, the film was shown as part of a Ministry of Support Parent Event.
“Some of the parents in the audience were crying,” Mr. Lyons recalled. “It was a powerful moment.”
The 2022 animated short film The Boy, the Mole, the Fox and the Horse was co-directed by Peter Baynton and Charlie Mackesy, from a screenplay co-written by Jon Croker and Mackesy. Adapted from Mackesy’s 2019 illustrated book of the same title, the production features vocal performances by Jude Coward Nicoll, Tom Hollander, Idris Elba, and Gabriel Byrne. Their characters comprise the four central figures who develop an unexpected bond while journeying together to locate the child’s home.
