Animal Farm review: Andy Serkis' adaptation of George Orwell's classic satire has been widely criticized for betraying the original text with a sugary, Disney-style ending. The film, which stars Seth Rogen as Napoleon and Laverne Cox as Snowball, strips away the rage and passion of the allegory, leaving audiences with a blandified version of a revolutionary story.
Why This Animal Farm Adaptation Fails
The pivotal moment in Orwell's novel—when the pigs and humans become indistinguishable—occurs here at the one-hour mark of a 94-minute film. This signals a new third act that ultimately undermines the story's core message. The film introduces a corporate agribusiness character, Pilkington (voiced by Glenn Close), and adds a Big Brother-style giant screen, but these changes feel forced and detract from the original satire.
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The Sugar-Coated Ending
Instead of the bleak, thought-provoking conclusion of the book, Serkis delivers a panto-baddie comeuppance for Napoleon, complete with a fire and young animal rebels gathering on a riverbank. They solemnly vow not to trust leaders like Napoleon again, but this happy ending contradicts the novel's timeless warning about totalitarianism.
| Aspect | Original Animal Farm (1945) | Serkis Adaptation (2025) |
|---|---|---|
| Tone | Dark, satirical, and unflinching | Sugary, comedic, and defanged |
| Ending | Pigs and humans merge, no hope | Rebels triumph, moral lesson |
| Key Themes | Stalinism, failed revolution, corruption | Generic anti-leadership, corporate greed |
| Character Depth | Complex allegories | One-dimensional, comic relief |
Key Takeaways from the Animal Farm Review
- Andy Serkis and screenwriter Nicholas Stoller defang Orwell's satire with a happy ending.
- The film's cheapo digital look undermines its visual impact.
- Historical perspective from the post-1945 world is mishandled.
- Fans of the novel will find little to appreciate in this adaptation.
- The film releases in UK and Irish cinemas on 17 July.
What Critics Are Saying
Reviewers have noted that the film subtracts the rage, satire, passion, and meaning from Orwell's work. The inclusion of a corporate villain and a panto-style climax feels out of place, and the film fails to capture the timeless relevance of the original allegory. If you're looking for a faithful adaptation, this is not it.
FAQ
Is the new Animal Farm movie worth watching?
Most critics say no, as the film betrays Orwell's original satire with a sugary, defanged ending that lacks the novel's dark power.
Who stars in the Animal Farm adaptation?
The voice cast includes Seth Rogen as Napoleon, Laverne Cox as Snowball, and Glenn Close as Pilkington.
How does the film differ from the book?
The film adds a happy ending, a corporate villain, and a Big Brother-style screen, while removing the bleak satire and complex allegories of the original.
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