Review of Grizzly Man (2005) by Josh F — 02 Jan 2017

Werner Herzog's documentary is a brutal, horrifying, and beautiful look at the mindset and exploits of (probably disturbed) nature lover Timothy Treadwell.

By playing stretches of Treadwell's home video footage in the wilderness as well as interviewing people who supported and criticized him over the years, Herzog takes his time to carefully explore this bizarre but endlessly fascinating infamous figure from the 90s. He even weighs in with own opinions, making sure to not be too critical but also not too lenient on Treadwell either. It's a much appreciated approach. Herzog respects his audience and doesn't hit you over the head with his film's ideas.

Perhaps best of all though, Herzog allows much of Treadwell's home videos to speak for themselves. The footage of bears is both intense and extraordinary. Nobody can say that Treadwell didn't have a talent for film-making. However, you also see the rants and ramblings of a man who seemed to be on the verge of a mental breakdown. It's frightening and tragic to see such instability on video.

Grizzly Man is a masterfully crafted car wreck - and I mean that in the most positive way. It's genuinely horrific and upsetting but you just can't stop watching. This is one documentary that is not to be missed.