In the 2016 animated movie The Secret Life of Pets, one of the most unforgettable characters is Snowball, the white rabbit who plays a central role in the film’s plot. Voiced by comedian Kevin Hart, Snowball is not your average bunny. He's a rebellious, mischievous character with a penchant for chaos, but over the course of the movie, he shows that there's more to him than just his wild antics. This fluffy little rabbit steals the show as both a villain and a hero, leaving audiences laughing and rooting for him throughout the story.
Who is Snowball the Rabbit?
Snowball is a white rabbit who, at first glance, may seem like an innocent, cute animal. However, this bunny has a big attitude and a chip on his shoulder. He is the leader of the flushed pets, a group of animals that have been abandoned by their owners and now live on the streets of New York City. Snowball leads these "flushed pets" with a rebellious and dramatic flair, wanting to get back at the humans who left them behind.
Though he appears to be a soft, fluffy creature, Snowball is a fierce character with a vendetta against humans. He despises people and has a deep grudge against the ones who gave him up, believing they betrayed him. His personality is larger than life, and he quickly establishes himself as a character you can’t help but watch.
Personality of Snowball the Rabbit
Snowball’s personality is a mix of anger, humor, and vulnerability. Despite his tough exterior, he is far more complex than just a simple villain. Let’s break down some of his most defining traits:
- Rebellious Leader
As the self-proclaimed leader of the flushed pets, Snowball has a lot of energy and authority. He’s the kind of character who makes dramatic speeches and rallies his troops to take action. His rebellious nature stems from his past abandonment, and he channels this anger into a desire for revenge against the humans who gave him up. Snowball’s ability to control his group of flushed pets shows his natural charisma and leadership skills, albeit with a slightly chaotic and over-the-top approach. - Comedic and Over-the-Top
One of the key reasons Snowball is so memorable is his comedic antics. His exaggerated emotions, wild facial expressions, and humorous actions create some of the funniest moments in the film. For example, Snowball frequently gets carried away with his rants about how humans abandoned him, and he often refers to himself as the “King of the Flushed Pets” in a way that’s both hilarious and dramatic. Kevin Hart’s energetic voice performance adds even more to the character’s humor. - Loyal and Caring
Despite Snowball’s grudge against humans, he is fiercely loyal to the pets in his group. He looks out for the flushed pets and acts as their protector. His dedication to the well-being of his fellow animals reveals that, underneath all his bravado, Snowball does have a compassionate side. This loyalty becomes especially evident when he begins to bond with Max, the film's protagonist, and works alongside him to resolve the main conflict. - Underdog with a Heart of Gold
Snowball’s character is also that of an underdog. Initially, he seems like a villain—a small, angry rabbit trying to take down the humans who abandoned him. But over time, his character evolves into one that values friendship and redemption. Snowball’s eventual decision to help Max and his friends shows his capacity for change. Despite all his earlier anger, Snowball grows into a character with a heart of gold, willing to risk it all for the greater good.
Snowball’s Role in The Secret Life of Pets
In the movie, Snowball is initially introduced as a villain. He and his band of flushed pets are on a mission to seek revenge on the humans, believing that they are all unworthy of their affection. Snowball’s goal is to make sure that no pet ever feels abandoned again—through wild and sometimes dangerous actions.
When Snowball first meets Max, the lead dog character, there’s tension between them. Snowball sees Max as a rival who poses a threat to his leadership of the flushed pets. However, things take a turn when Snowball discovers that Max’s doggy friend, Duke, has been kidnapped by an evil gang of humans. Snowball, seeing this as an opportunity to prove himself, decides to temporarily align with Max and his friends to save Duke and defeat the antagonists of the film.
As the story unfolds, Snowball’s character evolves from a selfish, revenge-driven pet to someone who understands the importance of teamwork and compassion. He eventually joins forces with Max and the other pets, showing that even a little bunny like Snowball can make a huge difference when he’s on the right side.
Snowball’s Character Evolution
Snowball's journey from villain to hero is one of the most satisfying parts of The Secret Life of Pets. While he starts out seeking vengeance, Snowball comes to understand that not all humans are bad, and not all pets need to be abandoned or mistreated. Over time, his hard-edged exterior begins to soften, especially as he interacts with Max and the other animals. He learns that the true meaning of family isn’t about revenge or anger but about loyalty and helping those who are in need.
By the end of the movie, Snowball becomes one of the heroes of the story. His willingness to change, and the fact that he helps save the day, proves that there’s more to him than his initial image as a rogue leader of the flushed pets. Snowball’s redemption arc is heartwarming and underscores a key message of the film: Even those who feel betrayed can find a new path through kindness and understanding.
Snowball’s Return in The Secret Life of Pets 2
In The Secret Life of Pets 2 (2019), Snowball returns, and his character continues to develop. In the sequel, he has embraced his role as a hero and protector. Snowball adopts a superhero persona as he works to protect a little bunny named Daisy. While he still retains his over-the-top, eccentric personality, Snowball’s character has matured, and he’s no longer the bitter, revenge-driven rabbit he once was. Instead, he’s a force for good, willing to put his life on the line to protect those he cares about.
Conclusion: Why Snowball the Rabbit is a Memorable Character
Snowball, the rabbit from The Secret Life of Pets, is one of the standout characters of the film. His humor, rebellion, and eventual growth into a hero make him an unforgettable character. What makes Snowball truly special is how his journey from villain to hero mirrors the larger themes of the film: forgiveness, change, and the power of friendship.
Whether he’s stealing the spotlight with his outrageous antics or showing a softer side as he works alongside the other pets, Snowball’s character is a perfect example of how even the most unlikely hero can make a big impact. Kevin Hart’s voice acting brings an extra layer of charm to Snowball, making him a character that viewers of all ages can appreciate. If you haven’t seen The Secret Life of Pets, Snowball is just one of the many reasons to watch this delightful animated film.
So, next time you watch The Secret Life of Pets, remember that even the smallest, fluffiest rabbit can have a big personality—and Snowball proves that every day!