We’re Going on a Bear Hunt DVD Review

We’re Going on a Bear Hunt has been a much loved story in our house for years, so when we were given the opportunity to watch the animated DVD, I knew it was something Summer would be excited about.

The story follows a family as they head off on an adventure in search of a bear. Along the way they encounter all sorts of obstacles, from thick mud and snowy weather to a dark forest. What starts out as an exciting adventure soon becomes a little more frightening when Rosie and Rufus become separated from the rest of the family.

A much loved children's classic

We’re Going on a Bear Hunt is one of those children's books that seems to stay with you. It has the repetition, sounds and rhythm that children love, and Summer has known the story since she was at school.

She can recite lots of the familiar parts of the story, so when we received the DVD she was absolutely delighted. She couldn't wait to watch it.

There is something particularly lovely about seeing a favourite children's book brought to life on screen. The animated special takes the familiar story and expands it into a longer adventure, while still keeping the charm that makes the original so popular.

We’re Going on a Bear Hunt DVD

The animated special was produced by the makers of The Snowman and The Snowdog, with beautiful animation and a lovely cast of voices.

The cast includes Olivia Colman, Pam Ferris and Mark Williams, who provide the voices for new characters Mum, Grandma and Dad. Author Michael Rosen also makes an appearance as the Bear.

The DVD also features a brand new song, Me & You, specially composed by British singer-songwriter George Ezra.

For Summer, though, the biggest attraction was simply being able to watch one of her favourite stories on the television.

What did Summer think?

Summer absolutely loved it.

She was already familiar with the story and knew many of the words, so she was very excited when she recognised the different parts of the adventure. Watching her get so involved with a story she already loved was really lovely.

The DVD is around 30 minutes long, which I think is a good length for younger children. It kept Summer entertained without being too long, and she enjoyed watching it again and again.

In fact, "again" became a regular request after she had finished watching it!

Our thoughts

I think We’re Going on a Bear Hunt works particularly well as an animated special because it gives children the opportunity to experience a familiar story in a completely different way.

For children who already love the book, it is exciting to see the characters and adventure brought to life. For children who haven't discovered the story yet, the DVD is a lovely introduction to this classic children's tale.

For us, it was an easy recommendation because Summer already adored the book. She fell in love with the DVD too and has watched it many, many times since it arrived.

It is warm, entertaining and beautifully produced, making it a lovely addition to a family DVD collection.

We’re Going on a Bear Hunt was released on DVD on Monday 6th February.