6/10
Different than Disney's approach
9 October 2013
Warning: Spoilers
I don't think the Soviet Winnie was considerably better or worse than the American, even if only the American version managed Oscar glory. It's clearly different and though it's interesting to compare the two. I'd clearly succeed more in that if it hadn't been quite a while since I saw the American version, but some things come to mind. First of all, the one here has much darker fur while the American is pretty much in the color of honey, which, however, both really love. Also the Soviet Winnie is way more active, almost hyperactive compared to the lazy lethargic Disney Pooh, but equally good-natured and naive. Also his singing was pretty funny and, in contrast to the rest of the story, you won't need subtitles to adore his voice. Winnie doesn't wear the famous red shirt here and beyond his appearance, it should be noted that the surroundings totally look different compared to the character, pretty much like a picture painted by a child, which adds a lot charm to this film.

It only goes for 10 minutes and is the first of a trilogy by Fyodor Khitruk, who died not too long ago being way into his 90s. One of my favorite moments was Pooh's reaction when he looks into the camera early on and spots us watching him. Piglet, cute as always, joins Pooh here in his quest for robbing a honeycomb, but these bees sure know how to put up a fight and the fact that Winnie isn't the smartest exactly surely doesn't help. The original Pooh-bear is a must-watch for animation lovers and an entertaining choice for everybody else as well. Also we find out where his name comes from. Recommended.
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