Chickenhare and the Secret of the Groundhog

A compelling adventure romp with found family at the heart of it, Chickenhare and the Secret of the Groundhog continues to follow along the expeditions of Chickenhare and company. This sequel, based on the beloved graphic novel, adds drama to the mix with the introduction of Gina, Chickenhare’s long-lost sister. As they search together for the infamous backwards-facing groundhog, said to be able to change the past, they encounter betrayals, family reunions and estranged friends reconnecting. This animated movie wrapped in childlike wonder tackles surprisingly complex topics not typical of kids’ media.

The characters are engaging because their stories echo familiar themes for those watching. This is especially true for Chickenhare’s troubles with isolation. Much like most leading characters in a feature of this nature, his naivete lends itself to convenient circumstances for the writing. But there’s comfort in his ability to see the best in others, and his arc of searching for a biological relation and later appreciation for his found family is sincere and highly resonant. His separation from the people he grew up with as he spends more time with his sister guides the audience to Chickenhare’s realisation of what family and belonging truly mean.

What also impresses is the diverse dynamics explored throughout the near 90-minute runtime. One example is Crolloq and Meg’s partnership, which shows subtle signs of toxic and unhealthy obsessions, specifically Crolloq’s possessive tendencies towards Meg. The former’s imperfect efforts to evolve are refreshingly reflective of reality – full of mistakes with a genuine effort to learn. Even Gina, one of the more predictable individuals, has development that touches on discrimination and the theme of sibling blame-shifting with the loss of a parent. However, these are delicate subjects with significant intricacies, and they are perhaps too heavy to be fully unpacked in a film like this. Still, amidst these darker tones is the light-hearted enemies-to-friends spectacle between Abe and Squeak. While it’s comedic in its approach, their bond over parallel feelings of rejection adds another layer of fulfilment to Chickenhare and the Secret of the Groundhog.

Mainly in 3D computer graphics, the production adds visual interest by splicing in 2D animation to chronicle old myths and recount the past. The feature does tend to rely on exposition, rife with narration and characters verbally relaying their exact thoughts rather than letting facial expressions and the environment set the tone. These majestic 2D sequences, which explain important plot points, add texture and colour that uplifts these scenes of narration and adds emotional weight to them. It also allows the viewer to easily digest information while adhering to the movie’s fairytale-like aesthetics.

This is a nuanced feature masquerading as a straightforward adventure story; its simplicity elevates the core of found family, especially in moments of 2D art. Surprisingly deep, Chickenhare and the Secret of the Groundhog tells of human struggles despite its fluffy animal creatures and vibrant dressing.

Mae Trumata

Chickenhare and the Secret of the Groundhog is released nationwide on 24^th July 2026.

Watch the trailer for Chickenhare and the Secret of the Groundhog here: