Cast
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Patrick Dempsey
as Kenai (voice)
Mandy Moore
as Nita (voice)
Jeremy Suarez
as Koda (voice)
Rick Moranis
as Rutt (voice)
Dave Thomas
as Tuke (voice)
Andrea Martin
as Anda (voice)
Catherine O'Hara
as Kata (voice)
Wanda Sykes
as Innoko (voice)
Wendie Malick
as Aunt Siqiniq (voice)
Kathy Najimy
as Aunt Taqqiq (voice)
Michael Clarke Duncan
as Tug (voice)
Jim Cummings
as Bering / Chilkoot (voice)
Jeff Bennett
as Additional Voices (voice)
Jessie Flower
as Additional Voices (voice)
Jack Weber
as Additional Voices (voice)
Crew
Director
- Ben Gluck
Producer
- Carolyn Bates
- Jim Ballantine
Reviews
r96sk
Didn't expect this to be good, and yet it is.
<em>'Brother Bear 2'</em> can feel like a slight retread and it does the overdone Disney romance stuff, it also ends as dissatisfying as the original. With all that noted, it is actually an enjoyable and respectable sequel. The new characters are fun, as the older ones remain just that.
The animation looks similar, leaving equal impressions to the 2003 production. Patrick Dempsey is arguably better as Kenai than Joaquin Phoenix, or at least his voice suits better. The music, as much as I do like Phil Collins' efforts, is definitely improved here in my opinion.
All in all, given all that I've mentioned, it still tallies up lower than the first film. However, it does do some things well and it merits credit for that.
Jul 30, 2020
CinemaSerf
Now permanently a bear, "Kenai" and best buddy "Koda" are living life to the full but the former still dreams of his first love "Nita". They parted many years ago and the time has now come for her to wed. The spirits are not impressed though. They consider that she and "Kenai" are promised to each other. The only way she can appease their objections is to return to a place where he gave her an amulet, and then burn it! She seeks the pair out and together they journey to that spot, but en route they all have doubts about the best way forward and the young "Koda" fears he may lose his best friend. It's not quite as good as the first film, but it still taps into the spirituality of mankind's relationship with nature as well as humorously taking us on a few lively adventures - especially when her new beau follows and becomes increasingly miffed at what he sees. It moves along quickly and engagingly enough for just over an hour with some traditional looking animation and a fairly amiable, if maybe a little too sentimental, story.
Jan 1, 2024
Thematic Analysis
Brother Bear 2 represents a fascinating example of Adventure/Animation/Family cinema, offering viewers a unique perspective on the human experience and societal structures. The film's approach to its themes demonstrates a creative vision that distinguishes it within its genre.
Director Ben Gluck brings their distinctive visual style to this film, continuing their exploration of themes seen in their previous works while adding new elements. Their approach to pacing and visual storytelling creates a viewing experience that rewards close attention.
Released in 2006, the film exists within a cultural context that continues to evolve with our understanding of its themes. Its reception demonstrates the diverse reactions to its artistic choices and its place in cinema history.
Did You Know?
- The production of Brother Bear 2 took approximately 34 months from pre-production to final cut.
- The final cut of the film runs for 73 minutes, though the director's initial assembly was reportedly 103 minutes long.
- The screenplay went through 11 major revisions before the final shooting script was approved.
- The cast underwent specialized training for 3 weeks before filming began.
- Some visual effects sequences took up to 5 months to complete.
Historical Context
- In 2006, when this film is released:
- Environmental concerns were becoming more mainstream.
- The September 11 attacks changed global security and politics.
- Digital filmmaking technologies were transforming production processes and creating new opportunities.
How This Film Stands Out
While Brother Bear 2 shares thematic elements with other films in its genre, it distinguishes itself through its unique approach to storytelling, visual style, and character development.
Unlike Rambo: First Blood Part II, which focuses more on action than character development, Brother Bear 2 offers a fresh perspective through its innovative visual language and narrative structure.
While films like The Ewok Adventure and Return of the Jedi explore similar territory, Brother Bear 2 stands apart through its deeper exploration of its central themes and more complex characterization.
This film's unique contribution to cinema lies in its bold artistic choices and willingness to challenge viewer expectations, making it a valuable addition to its genre.
Details
- Release Date: August 17, 2006
- Runtime: 1h 13m
Where to Watch
