Ferdinand (2017)
“You don’t have to fight to be strong.”
Ferdinand (2017) is a heartwarming animated comedy that charges past expectations with charm, humor, and a surprisingly powerful message. Based on the beloved children’s book The Story of Ferdinand by Munro Leaf, this film reimagines the tale of a gentle bull with a big heart — and no interest in fighting — in a colorful, family-friendly adventure.
John Cena lends his voice to Ferdinand, a massive but kind-hearted bull who would rather smell flowers than participate in bullfights. After a misunderstanding lands him back at the bull-training ranch he escaped as a calf, Ferdinand must prove that who you are on the inside is what really matters. Along the way, he teams up with a hilarious group of misfit animals, including a feisty goat named Lupe (Kate McKinnon), three chaotic hedgehogs, and a trio of snooty dancing horses.
Directed by Carlos Saldanha, the film delivers vibrant animation, physical comedy, and energetic action scenes — but its real strength lies in its emotional core. Ferdinand’s journey is one of self-acceptance and courage in the face of pressure to conform, making it more than just a fun ride for kids.
With a catchy soundtrack (featuring Nick Jonas’s Golden Globe-nominated “Home”), lovable characters, and a positive message that’s both timely and timeless, Ferdinand proves that sometimes the strongest thing you can do… is refuse to fight. A gentle giant of a movie with a surprisingly big impact.
