As a result of the stark set, at times reminiscent of a stage, as well as the repeated images of people fleeing Christoffel's company, there is a distinct sense of alienation in this film. The Bear Skinner is certainly among the darker of the DEFA feature film fairy tales.  Although most critics praised the film, particularly director Walter Beck and actor Jens-Uwe Bogadtke, they also commented on the melancholy tone, as created by the music and set, which was not to be avoided. 

The film's very clear message, money doesn't bring happiness, overpowers the other themes, which could have been expanded to give the film greater depth and complexity: friendship is worth more than possessions, money can make people greedy and power-hungry, don't judge a book by its cover, a promise made must be a promise kept, and so on. Some critics wondered whether the importance of these ideas would be lost on younger children, and, despite the happy ending, The Bear Skinner does seem intended for a somewhat more mature audience.