A Bear Named Wojtek (English)

A charming animated film, A Bear Named Wojtek relates the experience of the Polish people during World War II through the true story of Wojtek and his friend Piotr Prendys, a member of the 22nd Artillery Corps of the 2nd Polish Army.

The story begins with a platoon of Polish soldiers, exiled in the Persian Desert, trading rations for a small orphaned Syrian bear cub that Piotr names Wojtek – ‘happy warrior’. To Piotr, the bear comes to represent his lost homeland, needing protection and care to become strong and independent again. To Wojtek, Piotr and the soldiers become his only family.

The film ends with Wojtek confined in Edinburgh Zoo, visited by his Polish friends. While they do not have the freedom they once did, the soldiers salute – brothers until the end. A Bear Named Wojtek is a love story for one’s homeland in times of refugees, nationalism and xenophobia.

Screenings available in English, Polish and Gaelic

Creators and supporters: Wojtek Animation Limited, Filmograf, Illuminated Film Company Limited. BFI Young Audience Content Fund, Screen Scotland, Polish Film Institute

£6; Senior Citizens/Unwaged/Students/Under 16s £5

Age guidance: PG