Polar Bear King Review
Starring: Jack Fjeldstad, Maria Bonnevie
Directed by: Ola Solum
Certificate: U
Running time: 84 minutes
Format: DVD
RRP: £6.99
Release date: 3 November 2014
Reviewed by Tonya Glennester
The film starts with some spectacular scenery and nature clips (it is filmed in Scandinavia) which leads into the introduction of the Northern King and his 3 daughters; 2 daughters appear quite self-centered and only interested in having pretty things, compared to the 3rd daughter who only wishes to own a picture of flowers.
The story then journeys south to introduce the Southern King who refuses to marry an evil enchantress and as a result she transforms him into a polar bear.
The Southern King, Valemon, will remain a polar bear for 7 years turning human each night, but no-one must see him in his human form and he must find someone to love him as he is or he will be cursed to marry the evil enchantress.
Valemon’s mother gifts him a gold chain that his father had given her when they married, she tells Valemon he must give it only to the one he loves and will marry.
The Polar Bear King travels north were he meets the princess and the journey of their love begins.
The film is quite dark in places with devil like creatures, snarling animals, and babies being taken away becoming invisible children it is perhaps not an ideal watch for the younger more sensitive minds.
The storyline is sweet and holds similarities to ‘Beauty and the Beast’ and ‘The Swan Princess’ however the acting was dry and long-winded in places.
The animatronics and special effects are pretty good considering the film was made in the early 90’s, I can see how people may be put off by the quality of them now in comparison to films made currently. Still the scenery is captivating and the classic fairytale plot line is still a very enjoyable watch. I admit I have watched it a few times without my young daughter as I am a hopeless romantic and nothings is better in an evening than watching truelove triumph over evil.
I do recommend the film but would say for viewers aged 5/6 years and older, and that viewers bear in mind that it is an old classic film that was made on a low budget but it is still truly magical.
Rating: 3.5/5
RRP: £6.99
Available to buy from Amazon here.
