Dreams and secrets! That’s what this Boonie Bears adventure is all about. Appropriately named The Big Top Secret, much of the excitement and story takes place under a circus big top, and underneath the tent are energetic acts which incorporate an elephant, baby kangaroo (appropriately named Jo Jo), a parrot and raccoon. One of the songs is called, fittingly, Dreams will come true.
A flood has left Pine Tree Mountain in a jam but Briar, always dependable during the difficult times, has disappeared. Where has he gone? Bramble goes in search of his brother, not realizing Briar has found fame in the circus. Yet there seems to be hidden secrets in the circus. A gorilla named Hugo seems to be one of the keys to unlocking the secret. In a nice sequence Briar and Hugo, who don’t start out on the right foot, become friends by the conclusion and Briar even tells him the circus people are his “family.”
The various circus acts are fascinating to watch, with young Jo Jo doing a flying trapeze act, and lots of other acts featuring the animals. This is a lot of silly fun which is sure to bring a smile to every viewer’s face.
There are, however, a few tense moments, such as when a couple of bad guys gang up on Vick, one with a rifle with sleeping darts. Will Vick escape unscathed? Logger Vick has not been pleasing some of the characters recently, having received an order from his boss to cut down more trees, which is never popular with the residents of Pine Tree Mountain. He already has had run-ins with the bears before, but then Bramble gets on his case again in this exciting adventure.
One of the interesting aspects of this movie is to see the animals act as human beings, rehearsing for their circus acts, and dealing with difficulties just as the humans do. And the secrets begin to unfold. Does Vick recognize a young girl named Lola? And what has Hugo been keeping a secret?
This show has a good balance of chase scenes, peppy music, secrets, and funny moments which will bring both smiles and laughter to your face. There is nothing in the content which is over-the-top, so it merits our Dove seal for All Ages.
The Dove Take:
What a fun ride! These bears and other characters will keep you watching and expecting the unexpected!
