Grizzly Man (2005)
Directed by: Werner Herzog
Premise: The film explores the life of Timothy Treadwell, an ecology activist and grizzly bear enthusiast who was killed by the animals he loved.
What Works: Grizzly Man went into production after Treadwell’s death and the film constructs its portrait out of interviews with his friends and family and the hours of footage that Treadwell shot in the wild. The film skillfully edits these resources together and creates a portrayal of a man that is sympathetic but not sentimental.
What Doesn’t: Herzog attempts to bring us to a conclusion through his narration, which gets a bit intrusive in parts.
DVD extras: Documentary on the film’s music.
Bottom Line: Grizzly Man is able to accomplish a fairly complex portrayal of Treadwell, going beyond his naïve image and uncovering the demons that put him in danger and led to his death. The film is also able to examine the desire to impose human qualities on nature and the potential danger that can cause.
Episode: #90 (April 2, 2006)