Partridge in a Bear Tree – Short Film Review

★★★★

Directed by: #AdamBailey

Written by: #SophieDutton

Starring: #EmillieThomasCurtis, #MarkLewisJones, #SharonMorgan

Short Film Review by Taryll Baker

Winter is fast approaching, and everyone is getting ready for a nice long sleep… but a certain Little Partridge can’t quite contain her excitement! What could possibly go wrong?

It’s the winter season and Partridge’s family house is missing a roof. They will surely not survive the freezing temperatures without one, so Partridge sets out into the woods in search of some help. Along the way she bumps into several quirky characters, and one unexpected meeting with a bear could provide her with exactly what she needs…

Partridge in a Bear Tree is a light-hearted animated short created by Cloth Cat Animation, written by Sophie Dutton and directed by Adam Bailey. Running at only 6 minutes, it introduces the family of partridges, sends Partridge (Emillie Thomas-Curtis) on her way and provides a message that friends can be found in the most unlikely of places. It’s a nicely animated film with brilliant voice talent; all of the characters feel vibrant and full of life. In terms of audience, it’s very clearly directed at young children and it works as a nice wintery treat with a heart-warming story resolution.

The original music score by Kirsten Evans uses plucky strings and wiggling wind melodies to accentuate on the mystical and fun-loving nature of Partridge in a Bear Tree. Her attention to detail in the orchestration is wonderful, with plenty of charm in the musical journey she takes. You’ll hear twinkling hits of what sounds like a glockenspiel, guitar rhythms and a soft brass for the sluggish characters. As Partridge goes on her short adventure, the music does too and supplements the colourful imagery very well.

Partridge in a Bear Tree is a warm and fluffy-feeling short with bursting energy and a lovely theme. The animators did a great job with the movement and colouring/shading for the characters and environments. Seemingly, a lot of care went into this film and it’s all the better for it. As children’s films go, this is certainly not holding much content for the older audience that may be viewing, but some enjoyment can be found in the technical execution. It’s flowing with style and showcases fantastic voice work and recording; Partridge in a Bear Tree is a nice little bundle of joy.

– #TaryllBaker