In the animated comedy Norm of the North, a polar bear and his lemming pals head to Manhattan where they try to stop a developer from building condos in the arctic. Seems like this isn't the first time we've seen a bear up to some crazy antics on the big screen. We can’t help but think of some of the others in his species that have captured our hearts, entertained us and even frightened us. Here are nine memorable bears you and your family might want to check out.
Most Adorable Bear
Paddington from Paddington
Rating: PG
The friendly, hat-wearing, English-speaking, always proper and undeniably lovable bear from deepest, darkest Peru – jumps from the pages of Michael Bond’s classic book series to the big screen in this adaption starring Nicole Kidman, Sally Hawkins and Hugh Bonneville (of Downton Abby fame).
Scariest Bear
Mor’du from Brave
Rating: PG
My daughter adored Brave with its message of empowerment, the bond between mother and daughter, and Merida’s awesome skills with archery and horses. But there was one thing that totally freaked my then seven-year-old out : Mor'du. This fierce and wild bear is not for the faint of heart, especially when Merida’s mother (in bear form) is in peril as they have a massive fight in the film. My daughter only needed to meet Mor’du once before she realized he wasn’t for her. In subsequent viewings of the Pixar flick (which I enjoyed watching multiple times right alongside her) she would either close her eyes or we would fast-forward through that scene.
Most Honey-Loving Bear
Winnie the Pooh
Rating: G
Winnie the Pooh, with his rotund yellow belly and iconic red midriff-bearing shirt, has got to be, without a doubt, the most famous and beloved bear there is. While we may adore him, Pooh Bear adores honey – lots and lots of honey. He craves and searches for honey like a bee collecting pollen or a dog digging for a bone. Honey is his everything. And while he finds joy in the sweet, syrupy, yellow substance, we (the universal we -- meaning people of all ages) find joy in watching him. Winnie the Pooh may be a nostalgic character for us parents, but he still is fresh and fun for our offspring. He really is timeless.
Most Talented Bears
The Country Bears
Rating: G
It isn’t every day you meet a bear that can pluck a tune on a guitar, howl out a song or even carry a tune for that matter. But Disney’s Country Bears – the attraction at Walt Disney World and in the 2002 film – can do just that. And really, who doesn’t love bears that can rock! The film, with its silly premise and performances, is best suited for little kids.
Most Chill Bear
Baloo from Jungle Book
Not Rated
The huge bear that befriends Mowgli in the 1967 The Jungle Book isn’t just carefree, silly and funny, he also drops some serious knowledge with his relaxed take on life. His message is crystal clear in his classic ditty “The Bare Necessities.” Note: Mark your calendar -- on April 5 the Jungle Book reboot by Walt Disney Studios is set to debut with the perfect casting of Bill Murray as Baloo.
Most Comical Bear
Fozzie Bear from Muppets Most Wanted
Rating PG
The jury may be out on the comedic stylings of Fozzie the Bear of Muppets fame. His jokes, such as “Why did the man put a sweater on his hot dog? Because it was a chili dog. Wocka Wocka Wocka!” are one-liners only a kid could love. But still you have to appreciate his delivery and enthusiasm for his routines. One thing about the Muppets, parents and kids seem to share a love for these madcap misfits.
Most Spiritual Bear
Kenai in Brother Bear
Rating: G
Kenai, an Inuit hunter, is transformed into a bear in this spiritual journey where he grows and gains respect for the furry creatures he once loathed. This isn’t just a flick with talking bears, it’s an emotional journey about the spirit of humans, animals and the power of forgiveness. Brother Bear may have a deep message, but it is delivered with a subtle Disney touch that parents will appreciate.
Most Loyal Bear
Iorek Byrnison from The Golden Compass
Rating: PG-13
Iorek Byrnison isn’t just a bear, he is a panserbjørn, an armoured bear. Although Iorek looks intimidating, he is fiercely loyal and will do anything to keep his promises. He becomes good friends with Lyra Belacqua and Lee Scoresby, the main characters in The Golden Compass. Although he may appear scary, he has a heart of gold. This film, with its intense narrative and peril, is better suited for older kids. The film is based on Philip Pullman’s 1995 YA best seller, so if your child was able to handle the book, they should be fine to see the movie.
Most Real Bears
Disney’s Bears
Rating: G
With this doc, Disneynature gives us an amazing intimate look at real bears in the wild. Set in Alaska, this sweet, gorgeously filmed documentary shows the reality of bears and their struggle for survival. The film, thankfully, doesn’t include any overly violent or scary scenes, but it does include tense moments that might frighten younger viewers. With all the talking, music-playing, blue-coat-wearing bears we’ve seen on the big screen, it’s refreshing to see the real thing.
Sunny Chanel is a regular contributor to Fandango Family, Babble.com, Mom.me, Cafe Mom and Mommy Nearest. When she isn't writing, watching movies, or doing crafts, she is playing dress up with her 9-year-old daughter.
