i may have cried. this is genuinely one of the best video essays i've ever seen. your story about your grandfather and how you weave it into the narrative of fantastic mr. fox is truly- well- fantastic.
Without a doubt my favorite video essay ever. One thing that was glossed over that I really like is Mr. Fox’s grocery store toast in the end. In contrast to his boastful toast before the feast in the burrows, he gathers off-brand synthetic foods and declares that although the food is all fake, it’s sufficient.
'He lives in the past first' - incredible insight from the dialogue, well done! The analogy to your grandfather (RIP) is wonderful. Personally, contentment is something tangible for me, happiness is not. But being content makes it easier to be happy, which is awesome 💯
This was really awesome, RIP your grandfather. Really moved by the quotes "do not seek happiness, seek contentment" and "sometimes giving your time to someone else, may be nothing for you, but everything for them."
Listening to her conclude her grandfather’s story, with the jazz that had backgrounded the whole video becoming center stage… a Master class in storytelling right there. Hit me like a train.
i’ve been hitting a tough rut in my life. i find myself disccociating a lot and living in the past as my present. watching this video at an ungodly hour of the day and feeling the gentle touch of a message that was so eloquently explained gives me some level of contentment. my accomplishments are not a measure of my person, and i’m grateful to have learned that again
This shit genuinely made me sit there in awe, like the way you tied everything you experienced to the movie, to the music, to the pickup on the little details in dialogue, the perfect recipe for a perfect video essay
I cried at your outro My grandmother passed in March of 2023, just 2 months before my graduation. She was so excited to see me at my graduation and so excited to see me start college. I'm in college to be a seamstress, something she had done for many decades after losing her job. Fantastic Mr. Fox has been a comfort movie for me as of late. And your video is so amazing, please keep this up.
This video popped up on my feed at just the right time. I was just telling my wife how I don’t believe I’ll ever feel the need to prioritize my career to any level of considerable notoriety because my first and most fulfilling duty is being a husband and father. Something about that feels very “against the grain” in society today, and yet I am consistently reaffirmed in that belief everyday - and today this is what has done that. I have many hobbies and interests, and often take joy in pursuing/exploring them when I can. And I think it will feel quite gratifying when I’m at the end and my kids, and their kids all get to see that I feel good about how I spent the time I was given. Thanks for this video, I’ve always loved this movie but have never been able to put into words why.
I heard this story about a fish. He swims up to this older fish and says, "I'm trying to find this thing they call ‘The Ocean.’ " "The Ocean?" the older fish says, "That's what you're in right now." "This?" says the young fish. "This is water. What I Want is the ocean!"
holy shit, this is the most beautiful, touching and significant video essay I've ever watched. the way you articulate your thoughts and constructed this in such a way that flows so smoothly truly has me fascinated. how you managed to weave in the themes of the story; touching on classism, existentialism, patriarchy/toxic masculinity, along with story of you and your grandfather, so coherently is beyond me. I don't think I'll ever be forgetting those final few words; "don't strive to be happy, strive to be content. it's more fulfilling and it lasts longer"
This is my favorite video essay of all time. Everything you said was so amazing and interesting. I never found myself getting bored. In just less than 20 minutes youve inspired me a bunch. You're awesome
I may be late but I want to say thank you. Seeing the notes you shared from your grandfather made me think of my grandfather and great grandfather. I grew up without a dad, and they taught me what he couldn't. Yknow, listen, be brave, value those you love, your actions speak louder, and faith in yourself. The first drink I ever had was with my great grandpa after my dad died and he told me "it doesnt go awat, the pain. But you can outdo the pain with love. Even if your garden has weeds there will always be flowers." He inspired my love of life and gardening, and my grandpa inspired my love of carpentry. Sure they were old school and didn't like makimg their granddaughter do "mans work" but they always said I was their favorite and their best helper. From one person who misses their granddads to another, i bet he would be proud of you. Awesome video and commentary. Thank you for making me remember what they taught me, be a good man -a good person- and love. Be happy, be content. You only got so much time left.
When I saw the title of your video, at first I was scared it was gonna be one of those “settle and keep your expectations low” kinda video, so i’m glad that wasn’t the case at all. I totally agree with the notion that happiness/contentment is a state of mind. “Life is fantastic when we choose to view it as such” is a great line, we choose to feel happy, content and grateful for what we already have, only then we can achieve happiness, trough contentment and gratitude for the good things in life. Once we feel content, we can also feel happy within that contentment. Happiness isn’t something you should actively search for, but find in whithin yourself. It is a conscious choice, YOU make your life fantastic. This is a Very good video essay, and the story of your grandpa was delightful and touching.
I loved this analysis in so many ways that I won’t try to explain all that your perspective on this film made me feel and think. There’s clearly so much beautiful wisdom to be found in this film and I only love it even more now after seeing this. My grandmother passed recently and I feel like she had a similar role in my life and the lives of so many of my family members to what you describe your grandfather having in your own life. So what you said at the end there really resonated with me to the point of drawing a few tears. Thank you for making this fantastic video essay!
A comment I heard from another essay was ‘Sometimes I find things just when I needed them the most’, and I think this video essay was found by me at just the right time. Thank you
loved this movie as a kid, it really stuck to me. We watched it so many times. Your grandpa reminds me of my own, but he was an electrician. He's still alive, but I really love him. I've only gotten to know him for the last few years since they used to live far away, but it's been good. Also I'm so happy you have these lovely memories.
Can't believe this amazing review is not famous yet. I reckon you have explained exactly what the movie wanted to transmit. P. D: Your grandfather was a fantastic person😁
Just stumbled across this and it couldn’t have come at a more poignant time for me. Excellent story telling and the message couldn’t be clearer… life is what you make it ❤️
That was truly beautiful, meaningful and touching. So well written, thank you for putting this out into the world. Your message touched me in a moment of darkness
the grandfather segment was so emotional and profound but sentimental and nostalgic and loving all at once, i can tell the clips were chosen carefully and tied together they made a beautiful sequence of scenes that conveyed your points so well, i loved this essay so much definitely one of my favorites
I knew this was going to be wholesome (I love this movie) but nothing could've prepared me for this!! So beautiful, gentle and kind 💖 I'm so grateful for seeing this 💖
Fuck im not crying, you are. Didn"t expect to get such a hard punch to the guts right at the ending. As someone who lost a dad, an uncle, a cousin and all my grandparents it gets really hard sometimes not to dwell in what has gone (my father never made it through my hs graduation either) and be grateful for whats left. As also someone who struggles a lot with finding happines, contentment and meaning in life as a general, your video was truly - well - fantastic and made me feel all sorts of funny ways inside!
Beautifully spoken and expressed. I find comfort knowing there's someone that gets this movie the same way I do. I love my dumb simple life. A job I enjoy, a place to sleep, food on the table, and family/friends that I enjoy spending time with. Nothing wrong with wanting more, but to be content with what you need, is a FANTASTIC thing. (hehe)
Sat in silence for a little while after watching this video, never have gotten that experience from a youtube video before. This was amazing, thank you
My grandmother also passed away in my junior year of high school so the part of the video about your grandfather (and him not making it to your graduation) just opened the floodgates. I’ve been a bit emotionally numb to her death during the chaos of college and this video gave me space to cry and feel those feelings again. You’ve provided some much needed catharsis. The whole essay is brilliant, and you balance+analyze so many themes, but the way you weave your/your grandfather’s story into the narrative is so beautiful and profound❤️ Thank you
Wow, every once and a while I’ll see a video that kind of leaves me with that feeling when you finish a show you’ve been watching for a long time. That empty feeling where I just get room to think and process, this is one of those videos. It’s amazing how in depth this goes, and I this video alone made me subscribe. The story of your Grandfather (rest in peace) was absolutely incredible, sad, and uplifting all at once. I’ve found myself thinking about my own grandfather recently, I feel like I need to live up to how my grandfather and his father lived their lives. I miss him because I cant remember all that much about him aside from the stories my parents and extended family can recall, and that makes me sad. So this was absolutely felt. I really think this deserves more views, this is one of my absolute favorite movies and I didn’t even catch on to all of the themes in the movie. Wonderful work, well done 💙
This was brilliant and beautiful. One of my favorite video essays I’ve ever had the privilege of stumbling across. A thought provoking and honestly life changing look at one of my favorite movies of all time. Thank you.
It's a bit sad and ironic that most people don't think Contentment is Happiness. It reminds me of that one scene from Pixar's Soul. A character tells a parable about a fish... This fish swims up to an older fish and says, "I'm trying to find this thing they call The Ocean." "The ocean?" says the older fish, "That's what you're in right now." "This?" says the young fish, "This is _water._ What I *_want_* is The Ocean."
This is such an amazing work of art thank you for sharing this with the world! I never got to meet my grandfather despite sharing his name. I often look up and say “i hope im wearing it well” I gather that he too was a content man, loving to sing and was well devoted to family. Thank you again for sharing
This was so sweet. I’ve never actually watched the movie but remember seeing it being advertised. I will surely watch it now! Your connection with your grandfather sounds lovely and it’s a special thing that this movie continues that connection for you
A genuinely wonderful and considered piece of analysis. Thoughtful, attentive to detail and clear while managing to communciate such warmth and love thorughout. Fantastic, one I'll be revisitng on many a hard day.
Oh man, this made me cry. That last bit about your grandpa is so touching and I totally understand having some form of art remind you of someone who hasn't seen it! That happens to me all the time! Great analysis. I saw the movie for the first time over the summer and I was surprised by how different it felt. I was surprised it came out in 2009--way ahead of its time.
I eloped this past August, and I'm on my way to finish my bachelors next year. I'm 26 now, but I didn't think I'd make it to 18. I'd contemplated suicide and was set on doing it after graduating high school because I couldn't fathom the idea of living past that. And then I met my now husband. Happiness was always so romanticized to me, it was intangible during the depth of my depression, but finding contentment in my mid twenties put everything into perspective. It does last longer, and it fosters a place for happiness, even if it's still fleeting. I revisit this video essay when I'm feeling unfulfilled, it's a good reminder that a change in perspective is all you need to realize your glass is half full, and that you can always pour more water in.
This was really well put together it should have more views that being said you were incredibly insightful I feel like this video shows a clear picture of the meaning of this film
That was a great analysis of the film. Fantastic Mr Fox is one of my favorite films of all time! I lost my Grandfather recently. He would’ve loved this film as well. It’s a good reminder to have gratitude in our lives. Despite our sucky jobs we can find contentment in the family we have and the friends we make along the way.
I was just thinking, when you mentioned how Mr Fox conflated his career with his identity; that makes me think a lot about the idea of The Shadow and The Persona in Jungian psychology. Great video!
There are a lot of good video essays, but this one is by far one of the most impactful and succinct essays I've ever been blessed to have been reccomended. In the most human way, thank you!
Far from family and slightly dyslexic, I shed a tear at how beautiful your story was and then laughed my ass off when I misread “In loving memory of John Cena”. God what a brilliant essay. Thanks for delivering such great philosophy in such a beautiful, beautiful way. Thank you
You know you and you’re grandfathers passed down wisdom has just helped so many people including me, I held back tears watching this. I love you and hope all is well is your life. Please keep being you and stay swfe
I don’t know why this video was recommended to me by the Algorithm, or why I decided to click on it. What I do know is that this video was exactly the one I needed to watch today. Thank you!
This video randomly came up in my feed, but I want you to know that it has inspired me in a time where I have been struggling with a lot of doomer style distaste for the world. While not the first time I've been introduced the general ideas of contentment this stands out as a digestible and understandable video I can share with others on how I am beginning to feel about existing in today's world while not carrying harmful ideological baggage about apathy and passivity. Thank you for making this video.
I'm thankful to have my grandparents through highschool and most of college. I can't help but get teary eyed for appreciating their impact on my life and mourning the loss of 2 of them in the last year. I also will be striving for the contentment that they found in life. Thank you for this video!
My home-town ("Reinickendorf") honours a mythical creature, also a fox, who in a story is also judged out of jealousy for being intelligent. I can therefore sympathy a great lot with this film.
I always felt like the themes in this movie were just barely grazing me as they flew overhead, and now I know because you’ve made them clear. Thank you for sharing so much of yourself, it is easily the strongest work I’ve seen in a while!
A beautiful review. Thank you so much for opening yourself up to strangers and allowing us to share just a little in the love you have for your grandpa. I am so thankful I stumbled across this video. ❤️
my grandpa passed away around two months ago now. i miss him dearly, this movie also made me think of him. he went through many traumatic things being japanese american, but he made a life for himself. he was content even when he wasn’t in good health towards the end. thank you for this video, it made me remember him today
I teared up at the end about your grandfather. I lost my grandfather this last october, he played the saxophone at his church and in his own jazz band. The underscore of jazz really made that special, I always think of him when I hear that type of music. This movie is one of my favorites and this is such a well done and heartfelt analysis.
Thank you for this. I’ve had mental health struggles throughout my 25 years of life and this vid essay is a fantastic example of what I believe in. But helped me learn that contentment CAN be your happiness in life. The basic needs are covered and has a little bit extra, unlike the farmers who have an excess. Only thing I don’t agree with is the toxic masculinity. Think Foxy was under quite a bit of internal pressure to provide for his family, so he had every right to make that toast as a thank you for the other animals help and as a relief for that pressure.
I’ve seen so many people from age 16-30 who are obsessed with hustle culture. They have a million side hustles that cost more than they make. These people are perpetually focused on “Making It” some day, but can’t be happy where they are. I think they would be miserable if they ever get where they think they’re going. Thank you for sharing what your grandfather taught you
not much more i can say that hasn't already been said. 2 years passed and your words have touched my heart; and many of those like me, to this day. truly beautiful video, thank you.
Man. This is one of the best videos essays I’ve ever watched and that’s an understatement. Your take on this movie displayed not only exactly why I love this movie but also how I feel about life personally. Thank you for making this and I hope it gets more attention!! ❤ (Edit) The end with your grandpa was completely unexpected but so beautiful. You tied it into the video perfectly and he seemed like a great grandpa :3
Kinda funny how a random video recommended by RUclips made me feel so many things. I'm in a weird point in my life, so many emotions and so much confusion. I am slowly(very) heading towards a better life and also mindset. Now I'm just laying on my bed all alone in my room and just thinking about the things mentioned in the video like happiness, being content, ego and other stuff that i forgot. I guess I dont really have a grasp on so many things in life. I tend to get stuck in the past and overthink way too much so you know what I'm finally going to watch this movie. Thank you for making and sharing this video. 😅 I rambled a bit.
I’ve going trough rough times Im glad that I’ve seen this in my recommendations I really thought that feeling misserable was the only way of living, now I think I’ll see the life in a more “fantastic” way Tky for the video and for the loving history of your Grandfather(RIP)
This was one of the most awesome things I have ever seen, and it feels so specifically made for me. I love my grandpa, he gave me my love of music and stories. I love Buffy the Vampire Slayer, it was my mom's favorite show when I was young. The jazz throughout the whole video was so warm and comforting, and Wes Anderson is probably my second favorite director, or third, it's a toss up for him and Del Toro, but Hayao Miyazaki firmly holds the top for me :) I'm now rambling. Thanks for the awesome video.
you've got me tearing up; my grandfather only passed away 3 months ago, and hearing people talk about their grief and acceptance of death makes me very emotional, but oh so grateful and happy to empathise with people who completely understand how I feel; thank you for this
I was taught the difference between happiness and contentment (didn’t know there was one) in a therapy session a while back. I will admit that I’m still trying to grasp it, understand it, and ultimately, find it
Im going through a tough time right now feeling like i need to make great sacrifices to be happy. But you’re right, contentment is longevity. When older people say “it gets better” or “it will all work out” I used to get mad, because plenty of people dont get what they want. What they mean is- you learn how to be happy with what you get
i swear if i was ever so slightly less jaded than i am now i would cry my heart out, just like i did watching this movie the first time because of ash and his character arc
I legitimately was not anticipating crying at work listening to this, but am thoroughly glad I did. I also have a musician grandfather that passed my Junior year of high school that impacted me similarly. And up until watching this, I don’t think it fully clicked to me that contentment might actually be the goal to strive for.
Incredible, thoughtful, and deeply relatable analysis of one of my favorite films as a child, having first seen it with my late grandmother in theaters when I was 10. Just rewatched it so I was craving for some more adult analysis of it, and this certainly did the trick. This video easily deserves 100-fold the views it has, but I suppose going with the theme of the video, 1.2k ain't so bad. Thanks for this.
Great video, from the analysis to the interpretation and complexity to the self reflection with the background music and the emotional hit of the videos at the end. A masterpiece.
Beautiful analysis, and the themes you present in it I find to be true… I remember as a child I was utterly mystified by this movie and its quiet, muted performances. This gives me a newfound appreciation for the way the movie was adapted from the book. Genius screenwriting.
i may have cried. this is genuinely one of the best video essays i've ever seen. your story about your grandfather and how you weave it into the narrative of fantastic mr. fox is truly- well- fantastic.
I really appreciate this. Thank you so much for watching!
Came here to say this. Your whole story with your grandpa tied the whole video in with such grace and emotion, you really made something special.
Couldn’t agree more. Best analysis I’ve ever seen.
Fr this was a great video, jenny really did cook
Phew I didn’t know the end would hit me that way, I just almost cried 🥹 beautifully told!
Without a doubt my favorite video essay ever. One thing that was glossed over that I really like is Mr. Fox’s grocery store toast in the end. In contrast to his boastful toast before the feast in the burrows, he gathers off-brand synthetic foods and declares that although the food is all fake, it’s sufficient.
'He lives in the past first' - incredible insight from the dialogue, well done!
The analogy to your grandfather (RIP) is wonderful. Personally, contentment is something tangible for me, happiness is not. But being content makes it easier to be happy, which is awesome 💯
"being content makes it easier to be happy", I like that !
This was really awesome, RIP your grandfather.
Really moved by the quotes "do not seek happiness, seek contentment" and "sometimes giving your time to someone else, may be nothing for you, but everything for them."
Listening to her conclude her grandfather’s story, with the jazz that had backgrounded the whole video becoming center stage… a Master class in storytelling right there. Hit me like a train.
managed not to cry until she read his last dream. almost made it the whole video but damn
i’ve been hitting a tough rut in my life. i find myself disccociating a lot and living in the past as my present. watching this video at an ungodly hour of the day and feeling the gentle touch of a message that was so eloquently explained gives me some level of contentment. my accomplishments are not a measure of my person, and i’m grateful to have learned that again
This shit genuinely made me sit there in awe, like the way you tied everything you experienced to the movie, to the music, to the pickup on the little details in dialogue, the perfect recipe for a perfect video essay
When I read "To make it to your highschool graduation" I violently and immidetiately burst into tears. It was such a great video
I'm frankly a bit stunned by how well you tied all of it together
I cried at your outro
My grandmother passed in March of 2023, just 2 months before my graduation. She was so excited to see me at my graduation and so excited to see me start college. I'm in college to be a seamstress, something she had done for many decades after losing her job. Fantastic Mr. Fox has been a comfort movie for me as of late. And your video is so amazing, please keep this up.
This video popped up on my feed at just the right time. I was just telling my wife how I don’t believe I’ll ever feel the need to prioritize my career to any level of considerable notoriety because my first and most fulfilling duty is being a husband and father. Something about that feels very “against the grain” in society today, and yet I am consistently reaffirmed in that belief everyday - and today this is what has done that. I have many hobbies and interests, and often take joy in pursuing/exploring them when I can. And I think it will feel quite gratifying when I’m at the end and my kids, and their kids all get to see that I feel good about how I spent the time I was given.
Thanks for this video, I’ve always loved this movie but have never been able to put into words why.
I heard this story about a fish.
He swims up to this older fish and says, "I'm trying to find this thing they call ‘The Ocean.’ "
"The Ocean?" the older fish says,
"That's what you're in right now."
"This?" says the young fish. "This is water. What I Want is the ocean!"
Fantastic fox and soul have similar messages. Learn to live your life and be content.
holy shit, this is the most beautiful, touching and significant video essay I've ever watched. the way you articulate your thoughts and constructed this in such a way that flows so smoothly truly has me fascinated. how you managed to weave in the themes of the story; touching on classism, existentialism, patriarchy/toxic masculinity, along with story of you and your grandfather, so coherently is beyond me.
I don't think I'll ever be forgetting those final few words; "don't strive to be happy, strive to be content. it's more fulfilling and it lasts longer"
This is my favorite video essay of all time. Everything you said was so amazing and interesting. I never found myself getting bored. In just less than 20 minutes youve inspired me a bunch. You're awesome
I may be late but I want to say thank you. Seeing the notes you shared from your grandfather made me think of my grandfather and great grandfather. I grew up without a dad, and they taught me what he couldn't. Yknow, listen, be brave, value those you love, your actions speak louder, and faith in yourself. The first drink I ever had was with my great grandpa after my dad died and he told me "it doesnt go awat, the pain. But you can outdo the pain with love. Even if your garden has weeds there will always be flowers." He inspired my love of life and gardening, and my grandpa inspired my love of carpentry. Sure they were old school and didn't like makimg their granddaughter do "mans work" but they always said I was their favorite and their best helper. From one person who misses their granddads to another, i bet he would be proud of you. Awesome video and commentary. Thank you for making me remember what they taught me, be a good man -a good person- and love. Be happy, be content. You only got so much time left.
When I saw the title of your video, at first I was scared it was gonna be one of those “settle and keep your expectations low” kinda video, so i’m glad that wasn’t the case at all.
I totally agree with the notion that happiness/contentment is a state of mind. “Life is fantastic when we choose to view it as such” is a great line, we choose to feel happy, content and grateful for what we already have, only then we can achieve happiness, trough contentment and gratitude for the good things in life.
Once we feel content, we can also feel happy within that contentment.
Happiness isn’t something you should actively search for, but find in whithin yourself. It is a conscious choice, YOU make your life fantastic.
This is a Very good video essay, and the story of your grandpa was delightful and touching.
Ok, let's test that, Mrs Buddha. I'm punching you in the face and you're trying to be happy.
I loved this analysis in so many ways that I won’t try to explain all that your perspective on this film made me feel and think. There’s clearly so much beautiful wisdom to be found in this film and I only love it even more now after seeing this. My grandmother passed recently and I feel like she had a similar role in my life and the lives of so many of my family members to what you describe your grandfather having in your own life. So what you said at the end there really resonated with me to the point of drawing a few tears. Thank you for making this fantastic video essay!
A comment I heard from another essay was ‘Sometimes I find things just when I needed them the most’, and I think this video essay was found by me at just the right time. Thank you
"Life is fantastic when you decide to view it as such"
loved this movie as a kid, it really stuck to me. We watched it so many times. Your grandpa reminds me of my own, but he was an electrician. He's still alive, but I really love him. I've only gotten to know him for the last few years since they used to live far away, but it's been good. Also I'm so happy you have these lovely memories.
5:57 In reality though, lone wolves are lonely and miserable and wolves can only truly thrive when they are in a pack.
Can't believe this amazing review is not famous yet. I reckon you have explained exactly what the movie wanted to transmit.
P. D: Your grandfather was a fantastic person😁
I need to always come back to this video...
THANK YOU🙏
Just stumbled across this and it couldn’t have come at a more poignant time for me. Excellent story telling and the message couldn’t be clearer… life is what you make it ❤️
That was truly beautiful, meaningful and touching. So well written, thank you for putting this out into the world. Your message touched me in a moment of darkness
the grandfather segment was so emotional and profound but sentimental and nostalgic and loving all at once, i can tell the clips were chosen carefully and tied together they made a beautiful sequence of scenes that conveyed your points so well, i loved this essay so much definitely one of my favorites
I can see this without a shadow of doubt. This was a beautiful movie breakdown of one of my favorite childhood movies. Much love. ❤️
I knew this was going to be wholesome (I love this movie) but nothing could've prepared me for this!! So beautiful, gentle and kind 💖 I'm so grateful for seeing this 💖
Your grandfather sounds like a great man R.I.P
Fuck im not crying, you are. Didn"t expect to get such a hard punch to the guts right at the ending. As someone who lost a dad, an uncle, a cousin and all my grandparents it gets really hard sometimes not to dwell in what has gone (my father never made it through my hs graduation either) and be grateful for whats left. As also someone who struggles a lot with finding happines, contentment and meaning in life as a general, your video was truly - well - fantastic and made me feel all sorts of funny ways inside!
Beautifully spoken and expressed. I find comfort knowing there's someone that gets this movie the same way I do.
I love my dumb simple life. A job I enjoy, a place to sleep, food on the table, and family/friends that I enjoy spending time with. Nothing wrong with wanting more, but to be content with what you need, is a FANTASTIC thing. (hehe)
This is so incredibly sweet. You’re analysis was wonderfully presented and thought out, thank you for being your genuine self :)
Sat in silence for a little while after watching this video, never have gotten that experience from a youtube video before. This was amazing, thank you
My grandmother also passed away in my junior year of high school so the part of the video about your grandfather (and him not making it to your graduation) just opened the floodgates. I’ve been a bit emotionally numb to her death during the chaos of college and this video gave me space to cry and feel those feelings again. You’ve provided some much needed catharsis. The whole essay is brilliant, and you balance+analyze so many themes, but the way you weave your/your grandfather’s story into the narrative is so beautiful and profound❤️ Thank you
Wow, every once and a while I’ll see a video that kind of leaves me with that feeling when you finish a show you’ve been watching for a long time.
That empty feeling where I just get room to think and process, this is one of those videos.
It’s amazing how in depth this goes, and I this video alone made me subscribe. The story of your Grandfather (rest in peace) was absolutely incredible, sad, and uplifting all at once.
I’ve found myself thinking about my own grandfather recently, I feel like I need to live up to how my grandfather and his father lived their lives. I miss him because I cant remember all that much about him aside from the stories my parents and extended family can recall, and that makes me sad. So this was absolutely felt.
I really think this deserves more views, this is one of my absolute favorite movies and I didn’t even catch on to all of the themes in the movie.
Wonderful work, well done 💙
This hit it all on head. Your wiser ahead of your years. Who says youth is wasted on the young? Your proof this is not the case.
This was brilliant and beautiful. One of my favorite video essays I’ve ever had the privilege of stumbling across. A thought provoking and honestly life changing look at one of my favorite movies of all time. Thank you.
It's a bit sad and ironic that most people don't think Contentment is Happiness.
It reminds me of that one scene from Pixar's Soul. A character tells a parable about a fish...
This fish swims up to an older fish and says, "I'm trying to find this thing they call The Ocean."
"The ocean?" says the older fish, "That's what you're in right now."
"This?" says the young fish, "This is _water._ What I *_want_* is The Ocean."
This is such an amazing work of art thank you for sharing this with the world! I never got to meet my grandfather despite sharing his name. I often look up and say “i hope im wearing it well” I gather that he too was a content man, loving to sing and was well devoted to family. Thank you again for sharing
This was so sweet. I’ve never actually watched the movie but remember seeing it being advertised. I will surely watch it now! Your connection with your grandfather sounds lovely and it’s a special thing that this movie continues that connection for you
A genuinely wonderful and considered piece of analysis. Thoughtful, attentive to detail and clear while managing to communciate such warmth and love thorughout. Fantastic, one I'll be revisitng on many a hard day.
I'm glad Mr.Fox didn't become Heisenberg
Oh man, this made me cry. That last bit about your grandpa is so touching and I totally understand having some form of art remind you of someone who hasn't seen it! That happens to me all the time! Great analysis. I saw the movie for the first time over the summer and I was surprised by how different it felt. I was surprised it came out in 2009--way ahead of its time.
I eloped this past August, and I'm on my way to finish my bachelors next year. I'm 26 now, but I didn't think I'd make it to 18. I'd contemplated suicide and was set on doing it after graduating high school because I couldn't fathom the idea of living past that.
And then I met my now husband. Happiness was always so romanticized to me, it was intangible during the depth of my depression, but finding contentment in my mid twenties put everything into perspective. It does last longer, and it fosters a place for happiness, even if it's still fleeting.
I revisit this video essay when I'm feeling unfulfilled, it's a good reminder that a change in perspective is all you need to realize your glass is half full, and that you can always pour more water in.
This was really well put together it should have more views that being said you were incredibly insightful I feel like this video shows a clear picture of the meaning of this film
That was a great analysis of the film. Fantastic Mr Fox is one of my favorite films of all time! I lost my Grandfather recently. He would’ve loved this film as well. It’s a good reminder to have gratitude in our lives. Despite our sucky jobs we can find contentment in the family we have and the friends we make along the way.
This essay is one that makes me re-think how I should live my life. Thank you for this wonderful essay. May your grandpa rest im peace
I was just thinking, when you mentioned how Mr Fox conflated his career with his identity; that makes me think a lot about the idea of The Shadow and The Persona in Jungian psychology. Great video!
There are a lot of good video essays, but this one is by far one of the most impactful and succinct essays I've ever been blessed to have been reccomended. In the most human way, thank you!
Far from family and slightly dyslexic, I shed a tear at how beautiful your story was and then laughed my ass off when I misread “In loving memory of John Cena”. God what a brilliant essay. Thanks for delivering such great philosophy in such a beautiful, beautiful way. Thank you
You know you and you’re grandfathers passed down wisdom has just helped so many people including me, I held back tears watching this. I love you and hope all is well is your life. Please keep being you and stay swfe
Thank you for this, it comes at a time when we all kind of get lost in shallow goals.
I don’t know why this video was recommended to me by the Algorithm, or why I decided to click on it.
What I do know is that this video was exactly the one I needed to watch today.
Thank you!
7 years later and paw paw is still inspiring the likes of thousands every month
This video randomly came up in my feed, but I want you to know that it has inspired me in a time where I have been struggling with a lot of doomer style distaste for the world.
While not the first time I've been introduced the general ideas of contentment this stands out as a digestible and understandable video I can share with others on how I am beginning to feel about existing in today's world while not carrying harmful ideological baggage about apathy and passivity.
Thank you for making this video.
I'm a huge fan of video essays dissecting cinema on RUclips, but rarely does one make me cry. Thank you for such a beautiful video
I'm thankful to have my grandparents through highschool and most of college. I can't help but get teary eyed for appreciating their impact on my life and mourning the loss of 2 of them in the last year. I also will be striving for the contentment that they found in life. Thank you for this video!
Another amazing video! Well done 👏. Those who were fortunate enough to have such amazing grandparents in our lives are luckier than we will ever know.
this is the third time I have watched this in the last couple years and it never ceases to make me shed tears
My home-town ("Reinickendorf") honours a mythical creature, also a fox, who in a story is also judged out of jealousy for being intelligent. I can therefore sympathy a great lot with this film.
I'm crying this is such an amazing video essay!! Rest in peace to your grandfather 🕊🕊
I always felt like the themes in this movie were just barely grazing me as they flew overhead, and now I know because you’ve made them clear. Thank you for sharing so much of yourself, it is easily the strongest work I’ve seen in a while!
I expected a little Mr fox video not a heart wrenching masterpiece with a beautiful ending 🥲
Your grandfather was a smart man, thank you for sharing his wonderful advice with the world 🌎
A beautiful review. Thank you so much for opening yourself up to strangers and allowing us to share just a little in the love you have for your grandpa. I am so thankful I stumbled across this video. ❤️
my grandpa passed away around two months ago now. i miss him dearly, this movie also made me think of him. he went through many traumatic things being japanese american, but he made a life for himself. he was content even when he wasn’t in good health towards the end. thank you for this video, it made me remember him today
I cried watching this, rest well grandpa :’). Thank you thank you for this beautiful masterpiece of a video
I teared up at the end about your grandfather. I lost my grandfather this last october, he played the saxophone at his church and in his own jazz band. The underscore of jazz really made that special, I always think of him when I hear that type of music. This movie is one of my favorites and this is such a well done and heartfelt analysis.
I’m not crying, you’re crying!
Thanks for the video! I enjoy this movie and always wondered what exactly it all meant.
Thank you for this. I’ve had mental health struggles throughout my 25 years of life and this vid essay is a fantastic example of what I believe in. But helped me learn that contentment CAN be your happiness in life. The basic needs are covered and has a little bit extra, unlike the farmers who have an excess. Only thing I don’t agree with is the toxic masculinity. Think Foxy was under quite a bit of internal pressure to provide for his family, so he had every right to make that toast as a thank you for the other animals help and as a relief for that pressure.
13:46-14:00
One of the best explanations for those who struggle socioeconomically. 👏👏
When, I first saw the movie as a kid, I just enjoyed the movie. Growing up now and watching this made me love it even more!
I’ve seen so many people from age 16-30 who are obsessed with hustle culture. They have a million side hustles that cost more than they make. These people are perpetually focused on “Making It” some day, but can’t be happy where they are. I think they would be miserable if they ever get where they think they’re going. Thank you for sharing what your grandfather taught you
I think I may be someone whose highest honor I can give is admiration. And you have mine, bravo
This movie changed my approach to life so much.
Its my fault i was procrastinating work on a thursday morning and now here i am sitting eating breakfast and sobbing. so beautiful.
not much more i can say that hasn't already been said. 2 years passed and your words have touched my heart; and many of those like me, to this day. truly beautiful video, thank you.
This was a very good video, very entertaining and thought provoking, makes me want more of your content.
Man. This is one of the best videos essays I’ve ever watched and that’s an understatement. Your take on this movie displayed not only exactly why I love this movie but also how I feel about life personally. Thank you for making this and I hope it gets more attention!! ❤
(Edit)
The end with your grandpa was completely unexpected but so beautiful. You tied it into the video perfectly and he seemed like a great grandpa :3
Kinda funny how a random video recommended by RUclips made me feel so many things. I'm in a weird point in my life, so many emotions and so much confusion. I am slowly(very) heading towards a better life and also mindset.
Now I'm just laying on my bed all alone in my room and just thinking about the things mentioned in the video like happiness, being content, ego and other stuff that i forgot. I guess I dont really have a grasp on so many things in life. I tend to get stuck in the past and overthink way too much so you know what I'm finally going to watch this movie. Thank you for making and sharing this video. 😅 I rambled a bit.
Your essay surely does grasp the whole message of the movie -to live in contentment in order to be happy.
I’ve going trough rough times Im glad that I’ve seen this in my recommendations I really thought that feeling misserable was the only way of living, now I think I’ll see the life in a more “fantastic” way
Tky for the video and for the loving history of your Grandfather(RIP)
Brilliant video essay, I have a feeling I’ll keep coming back to this one
My favourite movie ever. Thank you for sharing this with the world.
This was one of the most awesome things I have ever seen, and it feels so specifically made for me.
I love my grandpa, he gave me my love of music and stories. I love Buffy the Vampire Slayer, it was my mom's favorite show when I was young. The jazz throughout the whole video was so warm and comforting, and Wes Anderson is probably my second favorite director, or third, it's a toss up for him and Del Toro, but Hayao Miyazaki firmly holds the top for me :)
I'm now rambling. Thanks for the awesome video.
video essay so good you wanna log it on letterboxd after
My favorite movie. One that which you gave me more insight and emotion when rewatching it.
Thank you.
you've got me tearing up; my grandfather only passed away 3 months ago, and hearing people talk about their grief and acceptance of death makes me very emotional, but oh so grateful and happy to empathise with people who completely understand how I feel; thank you for this
This really goes to show how even a mere movie can mean the the world to someone who views it as such
may your grandfather rest in Peace ❤
I was taught the difference between happiness and contentment (didn’t know there was one) in a therapy session a while back. I will admit that I’m still trying to grasp it, understand it, and ultimately, find it
Thank you for this video, the way you described your grandpa and your relationship with him made me cry.
Im going through a tough time right now feeling like i need to make great sacrifices to be happy. But you’re right, contentment is longevity. When older people say “it gets better” or “it will all work out” I used to get mad, because plenty of people dont get what they want.
What they mean is- you learn how to be happy with what you get
i swear if i was ever so slightly less jaded than i am now i would cry my heart out, just like i did watching this movie the first time because of ash and his character arc
I legitimately was not anticipating crying at work listening to this, but am thoroughly glad I did. I also have a musician grandfather that passed my Junior year of high school that impacted me similarly. And up until watching this, I don’t think it fully clicked to me that contentment might actually be the goal to strive for.
Incredible, thoughtful, and deeply relatable analysis of one of my favorite films as a child, having first seen it with my late grandmother in theaters when I was 10. Just rewatched it so I was craving for some more adult analysis of it, and this certainly did the trick. This video easily deserves 100-fold the views it has, but I suppose going with the theme of the video, 1.2k ain't so bad. Thanks for this.
I'm not crying, you're crying 😊😢😢 What a well written, timeless dedication of a video I found☆ take care!
Great video, from the analysis to the interpretation and complexity to the self reflection with the background music and the emotional hit of the videos at the end. A masterpiece.
Thank the Gods for RUclips algorithm.
this was such a wonderful video, loved it deeply, hope this can change my ways, much love to you and thank you for putting things into perspective
Beautiful analysis, and the themes you present in it I find to be true… I remember as a child I was utterly mystified by this movie and its quiet, muted performances. This gives me a newfound appreciation for the way the movie was adapted from the book. Genius screenwriting.