The Disney production premiered on October 20, 2003. It quickly gained the sympathy of both younger and older viewers, who were touched by the brotherly bond born between the characters.
The film tells the story of a young boy named Kenai who, after getting into a fight with a bear, was himself turned into it as a punishment for killing an animal. As a result of this event, his older brother, Sitka, also dies, whose spirit is the only one that can help the protagonist regain his human form. During the journey, he meets a little bear who introduces himself to the boy as Koda. He decides to become Kenai’s guide and lead him to his goal. They quickly establish a very close bond with each other, becoming brothers and guardians for each other.
The film is based on a script written by Ron J. Friedman, Steve Bencich, Taba Murphy’ega, Lorne Cameron and David Hoselton. Aaron Blaise and Bob Walker were responsible for directing. Brother Bear received 15 nominations, including an Oscar in 2004.