The Bear Who Slept Through Christmas
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A Lot or a Little?
The parents' guide to what's in this movie.
What Parents Need to Know
Parents need to know that The Bear Who Slept Through Christmas is an animated short from the pre-politically correct 1970s with one potential language usage issue -- the frequent description of Santa as "fat." Some parents may find this usage objectionable. It's otherwise a quaint tale of looking for the Christmas spirit that is suitable for nearly all ages.
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What's the Story?
Theodore Edward Bear (voiced by Tom Smothers) decides to stay awake this Christmas instead of hibernating to find out what the Christmas holiday is all about. With the help of friend Patti Bear (voiced by Barbara Feldon) and Santa himself (voiced by Bob Holt), he'll learn exactly what he's been missing -- if he can just stay awake. Narrated by Casey Kasem.
Is It Any Good?
This early '70s cartoon short is a funny blast from the past with its jokes-a-plenty from the era ranging from horoscope signs to trippy vibes. And its message is simple: Christmas is state of mind.
To kids who like bears and Christmas, it's an entertaining, visually rich, quaint short, and parents of a certain age will likely find an enjoyable nostalgia rush from the simplicity, familiar voice actors, and tone.
Talk to Your Kids About ...
Families can talk about holiday rituals. What rituals do you participate in around the holidays? Which ones are your favorites and why?
Have you ever tried to stay up late to catch a full moon or to see holiday fireworks? Did you pull it off? What was it like?
In the film, some of the bear's friends aren't very supportive of his plan to stay up late to find Christmas. Have you ever gone against your usual traditions to try something new? What was it? How did it go?
Movie Details
- In theaters: December 17, 1973
- On DVD or streaming: April 16, 1995
- Cast: Barbara Feldon, Bob Holt, Casey Kasem
- Director: Hawley Pratt
- Studio: Lionsgate
- Genre: Family and Kids
- Topics: Holidays
- Run time: 30 minutes
- MPAA rating: NR
- Last updated: October 8, 2022
Our Editors Recommend
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A Charlie Brown Christmas
The Peanuts gang in a classic Christmas special.
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Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer
Heartwarming for all ages, some old-school content.
-
Dr. Seuss' How the Grinch Stole Christmas
Heartwarming TV special is true to Seuss' classic book.
For kids who love the holidays
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