Bigfoot Family

Behind the Scenes of Bigfoot Family (2020): A Netflix Animated Adventure with Heart and Humor

Bigfoot Family (2020), the animated comedy from directors Ben Stassen and Jérémie Degruson, arrived on Netflix as a lighthearted romp for younger audiences. But behind its colorful animation and family-friendly premise lies a production shaped by European animation talent, a star-studded voice cast, and a mix of critical reception—some praising its charm, others dismissing it as forgettable. latestnetflix.com's read is that here’s what we know about the making of this quirky film.

A Belgian Production with Global Appeal

Bigfoot Family is a Belgian-French co-production, a detail that often gets overlooked in discussions about the film. Directed by Ben Stassen (The House of Magic, Robinson Crusoe) and Jérémie Degruson, the movie was produced by nWave Pictures, a studio known for its work in 3D animation . The film’s 88-minute runtime and comedic tone align with nWave’s reputation for creating accessible, visually engaging stories for younger viewers.

While the movie’s setting is distinctly American—following a Bigfoot family’s adventures in Alaska—its European roots are evident in its animation style and pacing. The film’s blend of slapstick humor and environmental themes (more on that later) reflects a balance between European storytelling sensibilities and the broader appeal needed for a Netflix release.

Voice Cast: A Mix of Familiar and Fresh Talent

The film’s voice cast is a standout feature, featuring a mix of seasoned actors and rising talent. Jules Medcraft, a young actor with limited credits at the time, voiced the lead role of Adam, the human boy who befriends the Bigfoot family . The ensemble also included veterans like Roger Craig Smith (Sonic the Hedgehog), Grant George (Bleach), and David Lodge (The Loud House), who brought depth to the film’s quirky characters .

Interestingly, Rotten Tomatoes lists Pappy Faulkner, Alexis Victor, and Yuri Lowenthal among the cast, though their roles aren’t specified in the available evidence . This discrepancy suggests the film may have undergone last-minute voice casting changes or regional dub variations—a common occurrence in animated productions.

One notable absence from the cast list is Shyloh Oostwald, whose involvement was confirmed in the film’s credits but rarely highlighted in promotional materials . This oversight might explain why some sources overlook her contribution.

Plot and Themes: Environmentalism Meets Family Fun

Bigfoot Family follows the titular clan as they leave their secluded forest life to embrace fame—only to uncover a corporate conspiracy threatening their newfound home. The film’s environmental message, particularly its critique of industrial greed, is one of its most discussed elements. Clips like "The Valley of Destruction" highlight the stakes, showing the family battling to save a pristine landscape from exploitation .

Critics were divided on the film’s handling of these themes. Some praised its kid-friendly approach to activism, while others, like the YouTuber in source , dismissed it as simplistic, calling it "suitable for small children and morons." The polarized reception mirrors the broader debate over whether animated films should tackle real-world issues or stick to pure escapism.

The film’s humor, meanwhile, leans heavily on slapstick and visual gags. Clips like "Family Fame" and "Run Adam" showcase the movie’s fast-paced, physical comedy, which aligns with Stassen’s previous work in family-friendly animation .

Critical Reception: A Mixed Bag

Bigfoot Family holds a modest 5.6/10 rating on SensCritique, based on 282 votes . While it didn’t spark widespread acclaim, it found an audience on Netflix, where its accessibility and vibrant animation made it a hit with younger viewers.

The film’s Rotten Tomatoes page doesn’t provide a critic score, but the lack of major awards buzz or industry chatter suggests it was seen as a solid, if unremarkable, addition to Netflix’s animated lineup . Some reviewers, like those in source , praised the voice performances and animation, while others criticized its predictable plot and lack of depth.

The Verdict: A Fun but Forgettable Ride

Bigfoot Family may not have broken new ground, but it delivered exactly what it promised: a colorful, fast-paced adventure for kids. Its European production roots, star-studded voice cast, and environmental themes set it apart from typical Hollywood fare, even if its reception was lukewarm.

For fans of family-friendly animation, it’s a harmless watch. For critics, it’s a reminder that not every animated film needs to be a masterpiece—sometimes, a little Bigfoot chaos is enough.