I watched this movie for the first time as an adult recently, and I thought it was a nice bit of fun from start to finish. It tells the story of a giant invisible rabbit who reveals himself one day to a little girl, and the trouble it causes when no one believes her stories about having seen him. The rabbit has very proper British mannerisms, yet does whimsical things like kicking people from behind when they are bending over. There were some funny details, like the hollow tree log that served as his post office, and his doorbell hanging in the middle of the woods (he lived at Rhododendron Manor). It might not be easy for young children to understand, but it is harmless fun.
10 Reviews
The Big Bunny
richardchatten10 December 2022
Long before I actually saw this film my eye had been caught by a seriously weird still from it in 'The International Encyclopaedia of Film', of the eponymous Mr Knibbles escorting the heroine; and it's certainly one of the rummest productions ever made by the Children's Film Foundation.
Unusually told from the point of view of a girl (the charmingly buck-tooted Lesley Roach), already undeservedly blamed for kleptomania because of the antics of a local magpie, her imaginary friend (first seen stealthily stalking her through the undergrowth) is obviously based on 'Harvey', a dapper fellow in top hat and waistcoat invited to a children's party by squirrel mail; his reply is delivered within the hour by a pigeon, which would certainly come in handy given the current postal strike.
Unusually told from the point of view of a girl (the charmingly buck-tooted Lesley Roach), already undeservedly blamed for kleptomania because of the antics of a local magpie, her imaginary friend (first seen stealthily stalking her through the undergrowth) is obviously based on 'Harvey', a dapper fellow in top hat and waistcoat invited to a children's party by squirrel mail; his reply is delivered within the hour by a pigeon, which would certainly come in handy given the current postal strike.
Owes a lot to Harvey
malcolmgsw9 December 2021
Mr Horatio Knibbles
heleniarowe29 July 2006
I am so surprised to find so many comments about this film, i though i was the only person in the world who loved this film so much when i was little! It used to be aired really early Christmas morning and i would love anyone to contact me if they know where to obtain a copy of this film or if they can sell me one! I have a little sister who has never seen this and would love my children in the future also to be able to watch it. My memories of the film are quite sketchy, but i remember thinking it was great and my mum and dad have never forgotten the film or how much my brother and i loved it. Please contact me if you have any info on the whereabouts of this film!
Wonderful viewing.
lezlee_lakin26 October 2002
I have four children aged 19,17,11 and 8,who have grown up with the film Mr Horatio Knibbles,it has brought them all enjoyment over the years.(and also for me aswell)!!! It is easy for children to watch,it's funny and enchanting,the children all love the big giant rabbit,and the silly police officer..
Mr.Horatio Nibbles
sarah_s5886 June 2005
this is a classic film. i am 18 years old and i absolutely love it. i remember when i was younger i used to have it on video and watch it every day with my brother and two cousins. that video tape got recorded over and i am really upset. my auntie has just had a baby girl so i am trying to get a copy of this film and give it to her so she can enjoy it as much as i did. this is a magical film that the whole family can enjoy. but saying that my mum got fed up with it because i used to watch it so much. i have looked for this film for so long and i don't care how much it costs so if anyone can tell me where to get this film i would be SOO grateful. please could you email me if you have any information. thanks xxx
A timeless classic
Leofwine_draca8 April 2021
Warning: Spoilers
MR. HORATIO KNIBBLES is a true highlight of the Children's Film Foundation stable and possibly the best one I've seen yet. It's simplistic yet endearing and thoroughly charming tale in which a lonely and bullied young girl finds herself accompanied everywhere by a friend who everyone thinks is imaginary - except the larger-than-life Mr. Horatio Knibbles actually exists! Shades of the Hollywood classic HARVEY here, but this is a film that has a charm all of its own, from the hilarious supporting performers (Fred Evans in particular) to the primitive but highly entertaining special effects. It reminded me very much of other feel-good fare from the era like THE RAILWAY CHILDREN or THE AMAZING MR BLUNDEN, and it truly is a timeless classic.
Fun enchanting
trid61617 December 2018
I have a copy.
daktal420sbaby13 June 2007
My mom recorded it off of TV a long time ago onto VHS. I am not 100% sure of the condition of the recording, but I believe that it's still watchable. I would have to contact her to see if she still has it. But I am pretty sure she does. I used to watch this as a kid too. I'm sorry to say that I don't remember a whole lot about it. Except for the rather large rabbit that kinda looked like he belonged in Alice in Wonderland. If I can get it, I know someone that can transfer it to DVD, but I am not sure that it would be R2. If you are interested, please feel free to contact me. I'm not sure what I would need to do, but I am sure that we can find a way.
Extremely strange.
plan9922 January 2022
Originally aimed at the very young but interesting to watch many years later. I don't wish to be unkind but was the girl who played Mary chosen due to her having teeth like a rabbit? No doubt very well enjoyed even now by the very young.
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