The Bear (1998)
A heartwarming animated short from the makers of The Snowman, based on Raymond Briggs' beloved storybook about a polar bear and a little girl's magical friendship.
The Bear - Movie Information
- Original Title: The Bear
- Release Year: 1998
- Directed by: Hilary Audus
- Type: Movie
- Genres: Animation, Comedy, Drama, Family, Fantasy, TV Movie
- Runtime: 26m
- Original Language: English
- Spoken Languages: English
- Release Date (Theatrical): December 25, 1998 (United Kingdom - U)
- Production Companies: TVC London, Channel 4 Television
- Production Countries: United Kingdom
The Bear - Plot
A polar bear breaks out of his enclosure to bring a little girl's teddy bear back to her. While she cares for him, the bear takes her on a magical journey. Based on Raymond Briggs' best selling storybook, this enchanting animated tale is from the makers of The Snowman.
The Bear - Trailer
Preview a clip from this enchanting animated short before you watch.
Where to Watch The Bear
Looking for where to watch The Bear?
Compare all viewing options available in your region on JustWatch ↗
The Bear - Cast & Crew
Director(s)
- Hilary Audus
Main Cast
- Charlotte Church
- Peter Knapp
- Philip Sheffield
Writers
- Hilary Audus
- Joanna Harrison
Producers
- John Coates
The Bear - FAQs
Is The Bear (1998) based on a book?
Yes. The Bear is based on Raymond Briggs' bestselling illustrated storybook of the same name. Briggs is also the author behind The Snowman, and the animated film shares that production's gentle, wordless storytelling spirit and warmly hand-drawn visual style.
Who made The Bear 1998 animated film?
The Bear was directed by Hilary Audus and produced by John Coates at TVC London for Channel 4 Television. It was written by Hilary Audus and Joanna Harrison. The production team previously worked on The Snowman, giving The Bear a similarly enchanting animated quality.
Where can you watch The Bear (1998)?
Streaming availability for The Bear (1998) varies by region and platform. You can check current viewing options, including any rental, purchase, or streaming services offering the film, on JustWatch, which tracks real-time availability across multiple platforms in your country.
Who voices the characters in The Bear 1998?
The cast features Charlotte Church as Tilly, Peter Knapp as Star Bear, and Philip Sheffield as Polar Bear. Charlotte Church, who was a celebrated young soprano at the time, lends her distinctive voice to the role of the little girl at the heart of the story.
How long is The Bear (1998)?
The Bear has a runtime of 26 minutes, making it a short animated film perfectly suited for family viewing, especially during the Christmas season. Its concise length does not diminish its emotional warmth or the richness of its hand-drawn animation.
What is The Bear (1998) about?
A polar bear escapes his zoo enclosure to return a lost teddy bear to a little girl named Tilly. Grateful and enchanted, Tilly cares for the bear, who in turn whisks her away on a magical nocturnal adventure. The film is a tender celebration of childhood wonder and unlikely friendship.
What age rating does The Bear 1998 have?
The Bear carries a U certificate in the United Kingdom, indicating it is suitable for all audiences, including very young children. Its gentle themes, absence of frightening content, and warm storytelling make it an ideal choice for family viewing at any age.
Is The Bear 1998 connected to The Snowman?
While The Bear is not a direct sequel to The Snowman, it shares the same creative heritage. Both films are based on Raymond Briggs' books, produced by TVC London under John Coates, and animated in a similar hand-drawn style, making The Bear a natural companion piece to The Snowman.
More About The Bear
Explore further details about The Bear on these trusted reference sites.