Review of Grizzly Man (2005) by Jessie C — 18 Sep 2010

In summary, it?s a documentary following the summers spent in the Alaskan wilderness by Timothy Treadwell. Treadwell is an energetic, sensitive guy who is out there alone, observing and interacting with the bears. His hope is to show people that bears are beautiful creatures, instead of dangerous beasts. The result is a highly emotional and disturbing introduction to a man, whether you like him or not, that you would want to meet.

I?ve never seen a documentary by Werner Herzog, but after seeing this, I would love to. He presented this story brilliantly, giving the viewer just enough information. By the conclusion of the film, I really felt like I knew Treadwell. This is because Herzog included footage shot by Treadwell himself; he was out there alone (ehh..) with a camera, and the camera turns into a confessional kinda thing, which makes the movie that much more effective.

I get why there?s so much debate over personal feelings regarding Timothy Treadwell. One side sees him as this environmental wacko and the other side sees him as a funny, caring guy. I personally felt that although his mission was too much, he was a good guy. The cool thing about Grizzly Man, though, is that whether you like him or not, it?s a great documentary.

It?s educational, it?s incredibly interesting, it?s emotional when it needs to be, but not too much, it?s very funny, and it?s a beautiful portrait of this man and the bears. It?s a really great film. I definitely recommend it, and I want to buy it for sure.