Little Sophie has been kidnapped by a giant bear – and he’s much better company than her cranky older brother. This charming Nordic expedition into the deep dark woods should entertain anyone old enough to read the subtitles.
As cuddly as a plush toy, but with just enough darkness to broaden its age range up to tweens.
Screened as part of NZIFF 2011
The Great Bear 2011
Den kæmpestore bjørn
“He’s bigger than a brontosaurus and pine trees grow on his back; yet he’s cuddlier than a new puppy. Six-year-old Sophie thinks he’s adorable, but her older brother Jonathan is scared – after all, it’s his fault they’re lost in the forbidden forest. He should have taken care of his sibling, but he didn’t, and now she’s riding around on the snout of a massive creature. Jonathan sets out to save Sophie – although the bright-as-a-button tot clearly doesn’t need his help. A crazy hunter enlists his help to find the bear and belatedly Jonathan realises little Sophie was right all along. This charming Nordic tale is beautifully animated and populated with wonderful characters.” — Jenny Neighbour, Sydney Film Festival