Babe (1995)
“Babe” (1995) is a heartwarming family film directed by Chris Noonan and based on the novel “The Sheep-Pig” by Dick King-Smith. Blending live-action and animatronic effects, it tells the charming story of an unlikely hero — a small pig who dares to defy expectations and follow his heart. The film is both a touching fable about acceptance and a clever commentary on kindness, courage, and individuality.
The story begins when Babe, a young piglet, is won by Farmer Arthur Hoggett (James Cromwell) at a local fair. Babe is taken to Hoggett’s farm, where he is introduced to a variety of talking barnyard animals, each with distinct personalities and social roles. Among them are Fly (voiced by Miriam Margolyes), a kind and maternal border collie who raises Babe as one of her own; Rex (Hugo Weaving), Fly’s stern mate; Ferdinand, a nervous duck who wants to avoid becoming dinner; and Maa, a wise old ewe who becomes Babe’s gentle mentor.
At first, Babe struggles to find his place on the farm. Unlike the other animals, who believe everyone must stick to their assigned roles, Babe is curious, polite, and eager to help. He soon develops an unexpected talent for herding sheep — a task traditionally reserved for sheepdogs. Using respect and kind words rather than intimidation, Babe earns the trust of the sheep and learns to guide them with remarkable success.
Farmer Hoggett quietly observes Babe’s unusual behavior and begins to see potential in the little pig. Despite ridicule from neighbors and disbelief from other farmers, Hoggett decides to enter Babe into a regional sheepdog competition. Meanwhile, tension grows when Rex becomes jealous of Babe’s success and accidentally injures Fly, leading to a temporary rift in the family. However, Rex later redeems himself by helping Babe communicate with the sheep during the competition.
In the film’s emotional climax, Babe and Hoggett take to the field in front of skeptical judges and a mocking crowd. Against all odds, Babe performs flawlessly, herding the sheep with grace and intelligence. The audience falls silent as Hoggett finishes the routine with a simple pat on Babe’s head and the famous line: “That’ll do, pig. That’ll do.” The pair win the competition, earning the admiration of everyone.
“Babe” ends on a triumphant and touching note, celebrating the power of compassion, perseverance, and belief in oneself. Beyond its adorable surface, the film delivers a timeless message: greatness can come from the most unexpected places, and kindness is a strength that can change the world.
