Your Friend the Rat

Remy introduces himself and his brother Emile to the audience, speaking on behalf of oppressed rats everywhere. The moment sets up the film's framing, with the brothers addressing viewers directly. Their presence hints at a playful, documentary-like tone from the start.

Remy pulls a scroll and a two-dimensional animation begins, contrasting the relationships between humans and rats with those between humans and dogs or cats. The sequence blends visual storytelling with narration to clarify the dynamic. It establishes the informative, humorous tone of the presentation.

Remy notes that humans once regarded rats as sacred and lucky in various cultures, highlighting India's reverence for rats as Ganesh's transport. He frames this history as a counterpoint to modern stereotypes. The segment uses curious facts to show rats' long-standing cultural significance.

The narrator mentions that during the Roman Empire, a white rat crossing your path was considered good luck, while a black rat signified bad luck. He uses these superstitions to illustrate humanity's complex relationship with rats. The material adds humor through historical trivia.

Remy discusses Rattus rattus and their association with the Black Death, explaining that the disease was caused by fleas rather than rats. He notes the massive death toll that affected both humans and rodents. The explanation contextualizes the perilous side of rat-human cohabitation.

The history of Rattus norvegicus is traced, mentioning their role in ending the Black Death and their honored place in the Chinese zodiac. The section expands on the rats' seemingly noble contributions to human history. It also reinforces the theme of rats as intelligent, capable partners.

A broad introduction to the mutual benefits of rats and humans is presented, setting up the idea that the two species can coexist productively. The animation suggests cooperation, care, and shared survival. This item marks a transition toward practical demonstrations of rat-human interactions.

For a second appearance, Emile pulls a scroll and explains, through a new 2D animation, all the useful things rats can do for humans. He highlights roles in research and as companions. The segment underscores the practical and emotional value of rats.

Emile claims that Jack Black was a rat catcher for Queen Victoria and even kept the rats he captured as pets. The anecdote adds whimsy while illustrating the historical use of rats beyond disease. It broadens the scope of rats' interactions with people.

The film notes that rats are used for laboratory testing and as pets, showing that they can have a good relationship with humans. The juxtaposition of scientific utility and affectionate companionship emphasizes versatility. The message supports a positive, nuanced view of rats.

Emile and Remy conclude their presentation by singing 'Plan B,' a playful ode to the rat-human relationship. The song reinforces the theme of cooperation and mutual benefit. It serves as a lighthearted finale to the informative sequence.

In the film's end, Remy asks whether rats and humans can live in peace, but is interrupted by a long, satirical disclaimer encouraging children to stay away from rats. Remy and Emile push against it, calling for freedom of speech and more food. The moment blends satire with a call for coexistence.