The Snowman (2017) Timeline Explained – Every Event in Order

Snowfall in Brighton

As night descended on Brighton, a soft layer of snow blanketed the town, creating a serene winter wonderland. Young James woke up filled with excitement, eager to explore the magical landscape that had transformed his familiar surroundings.

When

Night

Where

Brighton

Building the Snowman

Inspired by the picturesque scenery, James spent hours crafting a grand snowman in the garden. With each handful of snow packed and molded, his imagination came alive, creating a new friend out of the winter chill.

When

Morning

Where

James' Garden

Midnight Adventure

Curiosity struck at midnight, drawing James downstairs to check on his creation. To his amazement, he found that his snowman had come to life, marking the beginning of a magical adventure between boy and snowman as they stealthily explored the house.

When

Midnight

Where

James' House

The Motorcycle Ride

During their nighttime escapades, James and the snowman discovered a sheet-covered motorcycle in the garden. Filled with excitement, they hopped on and raced through the woods, creating a whirlwind of laughter and joy under the starry sky.

When

Midnight

Where

Garden and Woods

Cooling Off

The snowman began to feel a warmth threatening to melt him, prompting him to seek refuge in the garage freezer. Inside, James presented the snowman with a packet of arctic landscapes, sparking dreams of distant lands and adventures.

When

Late Night

Where

Garage

Flying Over Sussex

With a twist of magic, James and the snowman took to the skies, gliding over the breathtaking South Downs and the iconic Royal Pavilion. Their flight then led them above the Brighton Palace Pier, showcasing the beauty of their town from a new perspective.

When

Night

Where

Brighton

Aurora Borealis

Their airborne adventure continued as they soared along the stunning Norwegian coastline. They marveled at the mesmerizing aurora borealis, a spectacular display of lights that painted the sky in brilliant colors, creating a memory for James.

When

Night

Where

Norwegian Coastline

Meeting Father Christmas

In a delightful twist of fate, James and the snowman encountered Father Christmas and his merry reindeer. The jolly Santa gifted James a special card and a beautifully crafted scarf, further enriching their enchanting night together.

When

Night

Where

Snow-laden Forest

Heartbreaking Goodbye

As dawn broke, the joyous adventure came to a heartbreaking end. The snowman, having warmed from their excitement, melted completely, leaving behind only his scarf, hat, and coal pieces, filling James with sorrow as he mourned his beloved friend.

When

Morning

Where

James' Garden

Raymond Briggs in Sussex

Meanwhile, acclaimed author Raymond Briggs wandered through the rolling hills of Sussex, reflecting on the creation of his beloved tale. His inspiration was translated into the animated world that captivated audiences worldwide.

Where

Sussex

The Search for a Narrator

Executive producer Iain Harvey worked diligently to expand the film's reach, seeking interest from U.S. networks and VHS distributors. To finalize the deal, a big name was required, leading to considerations of actors like Laurence Olivier and Julie Andrews.

David Bowie's Involvement

Ultimately, David Bowie's unique artistry won over the producers, securing him the role of narrator. Having previously collaborated with Briggs, Bowie brought his signature style to the film, enhancing its depth and appeal.

The Discovery in the Attic

While exploring his childhood attic, Bowie discovered a scarf that closely resembled the one given to James. This nostalgic find added an additional layer of sentiment as he narrated the opening credits, infusing Briggs’ monologue with charisma.

Where

Bowie's Childhood Home

20th Anniversary Update

In celebration of the film’s 20th anniversary, Channel 4 commissioned a new opening scene directed by Roger Mainwood, with Briggs portraying Father Christmas. This refreshing version reintroduced younger audiences to the beloved tale.

Return to Original Version

Following Mel Smith's passing in 2013, Channel 4 reverted back to the original Bowie-narrated version of the film. This change restored the film's original charm, presenting it in a 4:3 aspect ratio that engaged viewers once more.