Prop & Berta

Prop & Berta is a heartwarming family film directed by Per Fly and released in 2000. It is deeply loved by many Danish families and has since garnered a warm international reception. The voice cast features renowned Danish actors including Otto Brandenburg, Paprika Steen, and Lisbet Dahl.

The plot of the film centers around the unlikely friendship between Prop, an affectionate, diligent seventy-year-old car enthusiast, and Berta, a kind-hearted and mischievous elephant. The story embarks on a truly magical journey when Prop finds Berta, a small elephant left behind by the circus, and decides to take her in. Together, they create a heartening story about friendship, loyalty, bravery, and the power of kindness.

Otto Brandenburg gives a stellar performance as the lead character Prop, a widower who resides alone in the countryside. Brandenburg manages to capture the essence of Prop perfectly, making him endearing and relatable to the audience. The character's sincere, compassionate demeanor appeals to both young and adult audiences, guiding them through a story of love and resilience amidst adversity.

Paprika Steen voices Berta, the elephant, perfectly capturing her innocent spirit, spunky nature, and admirable bravery. Despite being an elephant, Berta portrays every human emotion, from happiness and sadness to fear and courage, to perfection. Steen's performance skillfully manages to bring Berta alive, making her much more than just an animated character.

From their first encounter, Prop and Berta's relationship develops throughout the film, showing a bond of friendship and mutual respect. They have fun on various adventures and fight off some obstacles together. Prop's loving and caring nature towards Berta elicits a sense of care and protection towards animals among young viewers.

Lisbet Dahl brings to life the main antagonist of the film as the voice of the elderly lady from the Child Welfare Committee. The character, though initially appearing mean and strict, later unfolds as the story develops, adding depth and layers to the storyline.

Director Per Fly beautifully uses the setting of Denmark's countryside, enhancing the overall appeal of the narrative. The immaculate attention paid to the detailing in animation and the characters' specific quirks make the film an impressive visual delight. The countryside's tranquillity, combined with the playful joy of Prop and Berta's adventures, creates an atmosphere that's both calming and exciting.

Apart from being visually stunning and filled with charming characters, Prop & Berta offers several significant underlying messages. The film subtly portrays themes of friendship, acceptance, and courage against adversities, teaching young viewers important life lessons. It also touches upon elements of loneliness, taking care of animals, and standing for what is right, each intricately woven into the narrative, making it appealing for all age groups.

Moreover, the film beautifully incorporates humor, quickly transitioning from poignant moments to light-hearted comedy, ensuring that the film remains engaging throughout. Both Prop and Berta embark on numerous exciting adventures, keeping the curiosity piqued.

The film's music, composed by Nikolaj Steen, adds another layer to the film's charm. The soundtrack fits perfectly with the narrative, enhancing the emotional elements and heightening the adventurous sequences.

In conclusion, Prop & Berta is a well-crafted family film that captures the spirit of friendship and acceptance. Its stunning animation, along with a stellar voice cast featuring Otto Brandenburg, Paprika Steen, and Lisbet Dahl, successfully makes the film an enjoyable cinematic experience. With its beautiful otherworldly charm and a powerful plot hitting all the right emotional chords, Prop & Berta is a must-watch for audiences of all ages.