Bearskin, or The Man Who Didn't Wash for Seven Years
A soldier can not return home after he leaves the army, and can not find a job. Desperation drives him to make a deal with the Devil, who makes a bet with him. For the next seven years, he will carry a purse of gold that's always full. However, he must wear a bearskin and neither pray nor wash nor cut his hair in all that time. If he survives, he can keep the purse, but if he dies, the Devil gets his soul.
Insights
Plot Summary
Based on the Brothers Grimm fairy tale, the story follows a young soldier who, after losing his fortune in a card game, agrees to a pact with the devil. He must not wash, pray, or cut his hair and nails for seven years, in exchange for wealth. If he survives, he will be rich. If he breaks the pact, he belongs to the devil. He becomes known as 'Bearskin' due to the filthy animal hide he wears.
Critical Reception
This German television film adaptation of the classic fairy tale received a generally positive reception for its faithful portrayal of the source material and its straightforward storytelling. It is often appreciated by families for its moral lessons and traditional fairy tale elements.
What Reviewers Say
- Praised for its adherence to the Grimm Brothers' original tale.
- Appreciated for its clear and accessible narrative for younger audiences.
- Seen as a solid, if unspectacular, television adaptation.
Google audience: Audience reception on Google is not widely available for this specific television film. However, similar adaptations of classic fairy tales often resonate with viewers who appreciate traditional storytelling and moral themes.
Fun Fact
The film is a production of the German television network ZDF, which was known for its high-quality adaptations of classic literature and fairy tales during this period.
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