Animated classic to air at Christmas

Channel 4 has commissioned animated special We’re Going on a Bear Hunt, based on the hugely popular illustrated children’s book written by Michael Rosen, illustrated by Helen Oxenbury and published by Walker Books.

Produced by Lupus Films (The Snowman and The Snowdog), We’re Going On A Bear Hunt tells the story of Stan, Katie, Rosie, Max, the baby and Rufus the dog who are left home alone one day before Christmas after their parents go the rescue of Grandma, the children decide it would be fun to go on a bear hunt, spurred on by Katie’s love of grizzly bears. After swishing and swashing through the long grass, splashing and sploshing through rivers and squilching and squelching through mud, Rufus the dog picks up the scent of a bear…

In 2014 the original book celebrated 25 years as an international bestseller, with its story of perseverance, optimism and the determination to confront your fears head on.

Michael Rosen says: “I am absolutely delighted that Channel 4 has commissioned this animation. Lupus have a great record in this field and I am very excited to be part of the project. Helen Oxenbury’s wonderful art work provides a powerful family saga, full of imagined or real trials and these pictures will give a basis for a moving Christmas drama.”

Ruth Fielding, producer, says: “We’re delighted that Channel 4 have commissioned us to retell this classic story and bring to life its beautiful illustrations with our hand drawn animation style. We hope audiences will enjoy the film for many years to come.”

Helen Oxenbury says: “I’m so looking forward to seeing the book brought to life in this way. It’s a wonderful opportunity to bring We’re Going on a Bear Hunt to even more children and I’m thrilled to be part of it.”

We’re Going On A Bear Hunt is a 30-minute special, and will air on Channel 4 in 2016.