BBC And Netflix's Watership Down Series Gets Earlier Premiere Date

It looks like Richard Adams fans are in for an early Christmas treat. The new Watership Down miniseries has just been given a new premiere date.

The BBC series was initially set to premiere on December 25. However, the network has moved the animated show up to December 22 and 23. In addition to that, Watership Down will be released as two special feature-length episodes for each date.

It's certainly a surprising move for BBC considering that Watership Down was initially marketed as a miniseries with four episodes. Perhaps this will work out better if they are planning to avoid giving children nightmares right before Christmas Eve.

The synopsis for Watership Down reads as follows:

"Adapted for the screen by Tom Bidwell (My Mad Fat Diary), Watership Down uses Richard Adams' bestselling novel as its source to bring an innovative interpretation to the beloved story. Set in the idyllic rural landscape of southern England, this tale of adventure, courage, and survival follows a band of rabbits on their flight from the intrusion of man and the certain destruction of their home. Led by a stout-hearted pair of brothers, they journey forth from their native Sandleford Warren through the harrowing trials posed by predators and adversaries, towards a promised land and a more perfect society."

The animated feature will star Nicholas Hoult as Fiver, the rabbit who has visions of the future. Hoult will reunite with his X-Men co-star James McAvoy, who will provide the voice of Fiver's brother Hazel.

Watership Down will air on BBC on December 22 and 23. The animated show's international release via Netflix has not yet been confirmed.

Related: BBC's Watership Down Series First Images, Full Cast List Revealed