Ferdinand (2017) Characters, Setting & Themes Explained

Ferdinand takes place in Spain, primarily at a bull-training ranch called Casa Del Toro. This setting is central to the story because it showcases the tension between nature and learned aggression, as the ranch prepares young bulls for matador fights.

• spain
• casa del toro
• setting
• ranch
• bullfighting

Casa Del Toro is the bull-training ranch where young bulls are prepared for matador fights. It represents the world of violence and aggression that Ferdinand must eventually confront and rebel against.

• casa del toro
• ranch
• bullfighting
• training camp

Ferdinand is set in contemporary times, reflecting modern attitudes toward bullfighting and animal rights while subtly addressing the historic tradition of bullfighting in Spain.

• contemporary
• modern
• time period
• spain

The film champions gentleness as a strength, not a weakness. Ferdinand prefers smelling flowers to fighting, and his journey proves that true strength can coexist with kindness. The message encourages viewers to embrace their true selves and defy societal expectations.

• gentleness
• kindness
• strength
• self-acceptance

Ferdinand rejects the violence expected of bulls, illustrating the power of choosing peace over conflict. The film uses bullfighting as a backdrop to deliver a powerful statement against violence and for animal rights.

• non-violence
• pacifism
• animal rights
• bullfighting

Friendship is celebrated throughout Ferdinand's journey. His bonds with other animal friends and the young girl Nina provide strength and support. These genuine connections help him navigate challenges and reinforce the importance of loyalty and camaraderie.

• friendship
• loyalty
• bonds
• nina

Ferdinand is a gentle bull who prefers flowers to fighting, contrary to what society expects of bulls. He is kind-hearted and strong in character, evolving from a timid calf into a confident leader who proves that gentleness is a strength.

• ferdinand
• main character
• gentle bull
• hero

Valiente is a calf who embodies the pressure to conform to aggressive bull behavior. He acts as a bully and struggles with jealousy toward Ferdinand, but experiences personal growth throughout the story.

• valiente
• bully
• antagonist
• character

Paco is a mischievous dog who becomes Ferdinand's loyal friend. Though initially reluctant to accept Ferdinand, he eventually becomes supportive and helps navigate the challenges they face, adding humor and warmth to the story.

• paco
• dog
• friend
• comedy

Lupe is a ramshackle bull who becomes a loyal ally to Ferdinand. She brings humor and camaraderie to the group, representing resilience and support as Ferdinand navigates his return to the ranch.

• lupe
• ally
• support
• character

Spain is the birthplace of bullfighting, making it the ideal setting to explore the film's themes of non-violence and animal rights. The Spanish setting provides cultural context for the conflict between tradition and modern perspectives on animal treatment.

• spain
• bullfighting
• culture
• tradition

Ferdinand is designed for a family audience, particularly children. While it touches on serious topics like loss and captivity, these themes are handled with care and always support the central message of pacifism and hope, maintaining a light and optimistic tone throughout.

• family
• kids
• audience
• animated