Interview with Olivia Colman for We're Going on a Bear Hunt

16 November 2016

What is your character like?

She’s a lovely, warm, loving mum that you’d like to have. A nice Mum.

What did you find appealing about this story?

I love the bond the family have. They care for each other, look after each other, and I love the adventure of their imaginations. For a while you will start to wonder if the bear is real, and maybe the bear is real. I love that they commit to their adventure. I would like to go with them.

What is it like doing a voice over like this compared to live-action acting on camera? How would you compare the two?

Comparing voice over to live action – I don’t know how to compare it really. One clearly is not being seen, which is quite nice, but you have to rely on your imagination rather than looking at another actor and working from them, so it’s different but equally satisfying I suppose.

Did you know this book before?

Yes, I knew the book We’re Going on a Bear Hunt. I read it to my older children. So it was quite a long time ago and always loved it. I loved the chanting that we always joined in with.

What is it like reading this to children?

Well my youngest is too little at the moment, she’s still on earlier books. She will be enjoying it in the near future though.

What is their favorite part of the story?

As I recalled, their favourite part of the story was joining in with the sound effects and the chanting – sort of doing movements with the swishy grass.

Why do you think the book has been such a success?

I don’t know… If I could answer that I might have written a bestselling book myself. I think it’s an adventure that adults can remember from their childhood and kids are currently in that place where they can imagine things so clearly. I think it just struck a nerve with families young and old. Another wonderful aspect of it is that it’s so ‘outside’ - kids enjoying a natural adventure with their imaginations and fresh air and the wilderness.

The final film will be shown on Channel 4 this Christmas. How will you be spending Christmas?

I’ll be spending Christmas with my family and basically being cosy, probably going for walks, lighting a fire and eating an awful lot of food.

Are you a fan of Christmas then?

Everyone’s a fan of Christmas aren’t they? Yes I’m a fan of Christmas. I just like being together, playing games and reading.

Do you have a typical Christmas routine or annual traditions?

Yes, part of Christmas is always cuddling up together and watching a film, one that everyone can enjoy. I can imagine that this would be perfect with grandparents and kids and everybody cuddling up and experiencing it all together.

We’re Going On A Bear Hunt will be on Channel 4 this Christmas