The Hares Scared the Little Bunny

Synopsis

The Hares Scared the Little Bunny (Пугали зайцы зайчонка) is a 1983 Soviet animated short film directed by Ivan Ufimtsev and featuring the voice of Mariya Vinogradova. Set in a whimsical forest, the story follows a small, timid bunny who becomes the unintended target of the playful but mischievous hares. Through a charming blend of humor and gentle lessons, the film explores themes of fear, trust, and friendship as the little bunny learns to confront his anxieties in a safe and heartwarming environment. With its simple yet expressive animation style typical of Soviet-era cartoons, the film captures the innocence and wonder of childhood experiences in nature.

Cast

• 

  Mariya Vinogradova

  (voice)

• 

  Zinaida Naryshkina

  (voice)

• 

  Yuri Volyntsev

  (voice)

• 

  Tamara Dmitrieva

  (voice)

• 

  Efim Katsirov

  (voice)

Reviews

The Hares Scared the Little Bunny has received moderate recognition from audiences and critics alike, reflected in its IMDb rating of 5.6/10. Reviewers appreciate the film's nostalgic charm and the traditional animation techniques that offer a glimpse into Soviet animation history. The storytelling is applauded for its child-friendly approach, emphasizing emotion and moral lessons without being overly didactic. However, some critics note that the short's pacing feels slow for modern viewers and that its minimalistic plot may not captivate a broader audience. Rotten Tomatoes does not have an official score or extensive reviews for the film, which is common for many Soviet-era shorts. On film enthusiast forums, viewers often praise Mariya Vinogradova's voice acting for bringing warmth and character to the little bunny's role. Overall, while not a widely known or highly rated classic, The Hares Scared the Little Bunny remains an endearing piece valuable for fans of vintage animation and Soviet cultural cinema.