Disneynature’s Polar Bear tells the story of a bear whose memories of her youth prepare her to navigate motherhood. Narrated by Academy Award nominee Catherine Keener, the film captures the beauty of the Arctic while examining the increasingly challenging world that polar bears face today.

Polar Bear: A Narrative Look At Nature

Polar Bear isn’t a nature documentary in the typical sense. Keener’s voiceover serves not as an omniscient narrator doling out scientific facts, but as the voice of our lead bear herself. If you saw Disneynature’s Penguins, you’ll have an idea of the narrative structure of Polar Bear. (Both come from the same creative team of Alastair Fothergill and Jeff Wilson.)

The narrative structure easily draws in its audience, transforming the bear in question from ‘nature documentary subject’ to ‘character’. We easily become invested in her story of growth, survival, and motherhood.

Disneynature’s POLAR BEAR - Photo by Mikael Härd. ©2022 Disney Enterprises, Inc. All Rights Reserved.

It’s not the most in-depth look at Arctic bears, nor the most comprehensive presentation of the challenges they face. But it’s a film that knows its audience. Polar Bear is the kind of wide-reaching Disney fare that can easily be enjoyed by young and old viewers alike. If you’re an adult trying to gain in-depth knowledge about polar bears, this film probably won’t be your first choice. But if you’re looking for a casual watch or something to share with the kids, Disney’s Polar Bear will do the trick.

A Stunning Trip To The Arctic

On top of the compelling narrative Polar Bear creates, it’s jam-packed with stunning visuals. The Arctic is probably one of the most beautiful places in the natural world, and that really comes through in this film. From sweeping shots of the snowy tundra to dramatic overhead looks at icy sheets floating on the ocean, Polar Bear is gorgeous to look at.

Disneynature’s POLAR BEAR - Photo by Florian Ledoux. ©2022 Disney Enterprises, Inc. All Rights Reserved.
Disneynature’s POLAR BEAR - Photo by Jeff Wilson. ©2022 Disney Enterprises, Inc. All Rights Reserved.

This is definitely a film that leaves you feeling transported to another place. And since so few of us will ever experience the Arctic firsthand, Polar Bear offers a unique look into an almost otherworldly experience. You really feel the magic watching this one.

Experience the magic of the Arctic yourself when Polar Bear arrives on Disney+ on Earth Day, April 22.

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Polar Bear: DisneyNature Directors Alastair Fothergill and Jeff Wilson Discuss Transporting Viewers To The Arctic [Interview]