Rats have long been a staple in cinema, often portrayed as both heroes and villains. This curated list of ten films showcases the diverse roles these creatures play, from heartwarming companions to cunning antagonists. Whether you're fascinated by their intelligence or intrigued by their portrayal in film, this collection offers a unique cinematic journey into the world of rats.
The Secret of NIMH (1982)
Description: A widowed field mouse seeks help from a group of intelligent rats to save her home. This film delves into themes of survival, intelligence, and the ethics of animal experimentation.
Fact: The film was based on the book "Mrs. Frisby and the Rats of NIMH" by Robert C. O'Brien. It was one of the first animated films to use computer-generated imagery.
Watch Now
The Rescuers Down Under (1990)
Description: Although primarily about mice, this Disney sequel features a rat named Jake, who helps rescue a boy from a poacher. It's an adventure filled with bravery and teamwork.
Fact: This was one of the first Disney films to be released on video while it was still being shown in theaters.
Watch Now
Ratatouille (2007)
Description: This animated film features Remy, a rat with a passion for cooking, who helps a young chef achieve culinary greatness. It's a heartwarming tale of following one's dreams against all odds.
Fact: The film was inspired by the real-life chef Auguste Escoffier. Also, the animators studied real rats to capture their movements accurately.
Watch Now
The Tale of Despereaux (2008)
Description: This animated film tells the story of Despereaux, a brave mouse who sets out to rescue a princess with the help of a rat named Roscuro. It's a tale of courage, friendship, and redemption.
Fact: The film was based on the book by Kate DiCamillo, which won the Newbery Medal. It features a unique blend of animation styles.
Watch Now
The Nutcracker and the Four Realms (2018)
Description: In this live-action adaptation, a rat-like creature named the Mouse King plays a pivotal role in the story. It's a visually stunning film that brings the classic tale to life with a twist.
Fact: The film features a mix of CGI and practical effects to bring the fantastical elements to life, including the Mouse King.
Watch Now
Willard (1971)
Description: A lonely man befriends a group of rats, using them to exact revenge on his tormentors. This film explores themes of isolation and revenge through the unique bond between man and rat.
Fact: The film was remade in 2003 with Crispin Glover in the lead role. The original film's rat trainer, Moe Di Sesso, used over 2,000 rats during production.
30 Days Free
Ben (1972)
Description: A sequel to "Willard," this film focuses on the rat Ben, who leads a rat army to avenge his master's death. It's a darker, more intense look at the consequences of human-rat interactions.
Fact: The song "Ben," performed by Michael Jackson, was written for this film and became a hit single.
30 Days Free
The Pied Piper (1972)
Description: This film adaptation of the classic tale features a piper who uses his magical flute to rid a town of its rat problem, only to be betrayed. It's a dark, atmospheric retelling with a focus on justice and revenge.
Fact: The film was directed by Jacques Demy, known for his musical films, and features a haunting score by Donovan.
30 Days Free
The Rats (2002)
Description: A TV movie based on James Herbert's novel, it follows a group of people fighting against a swarm of mutant rats in London. This film offers a thrilling, if somewhat cheesy, take on rat horror.
Fact: The film was part of a series of adaptations of Herbert's works, known for their graphic depictions of horror.
30 Days Free
Mouse Hunt (1997)
Description: While not exclusively about rats, this comedy features a clever mouse outwitting two brothers trying to renovate an old mansion. The mouse's antics are reminiscent of rat-like cunning.
Fact: The film was one of the last to use traditional stop-motion animation for the mouse character.
30 Days Free
