Ernest & Celestine

Ernest & Celestine is a charming animated film from 2012 that tells the story of an unlikely friendship between a mouse and a bear in a world where these two animals are not supposed to get along.

The movie is based on the book series by Belgian author Gabrielle Vincent, and was directed by Benjamin Renner, Stéphane Aubier, and Vincent Patar. It was released in France in December 2012 and later in the United States in February 2014, where it was dubbed in English by an all-star cast including Forest Whitaker, Mackenzie Foy, and Lauren Bacall.

The story takes place in a world where mice and bears live in separate communities, with the latter being the dominant species. The mice live in fear of the bears and are taught to believe that they are their natural enemies. However, Celestine (voiced by Pauline Brunner), a young mouse with a love for drawing, refuses to accept this and dreams of a world where the two species can live in harmony.

Meanwhile, Ernest (voiced by Lambert Wilson), an aging and grumpy bear, struggles to make a living as a street musician. He is constantly harassed by the bear authorities, who demand that he find a suitable apprentice to pass on his trade. When he encounters Celestine, who is on a mission to collect teeth for the mouse tooth fairy, their paths cross in unexpected ways.

Despite initial animosity, Ernest and Celestine become unlikely friends and set out on a series of misadventures together. Along the way, they must navigate the prejudices and expectations of their respective societies, while supporting each other in their dreams and aspirations.

The animation style of the film is unique and whimsical, with a hand-drawn aesthetic that is both inviting and immersive. The characters are all wonderfully realized, with Celestine being particularly endearing as a plucky and determined young mouse who refuses to be held back by her circumstances. Ernest, on the other hand, is initially presented as a gruff and unsympathetic character, but gradually reveals a softer side as he grows attached to Celestine and begins to reconsider his place in the world.

The film also features a memorable supporting cast, including Anne-Marie Loop as a kindly mouse librarian, and Patrice Melennec as a scheming bear police officer. The voice acting is uniformly excellent, with each performer bringing a distinct personality and nuance to their respective roles.

Behind the whimsical story and charming characters, Ernest & Celestine carries a deeper message about the power of empathy and understanding. It challenges our assumptions about what it means to be different, and shows how the barriers between us can be broken down through compassion and mutual support.

Overall, Ernest & Celestine is a delightful and heartwarming film that will appeal to audiences of all ages. Its playful animation, endearing characters, and universal themes make it a timeless classic that will be enjoyed for years to come.