DVD: Grizzly Man (2005)

If I’d seen this movie in 2005, I would have sung its praises in my year end wrap-up. Which is a good argument to stop doing those wrap-ups; I’m never actually finished with any particular year. Allow me to climb to the rooftop and sing its praises now.

Werner Herzog’s documentary about Timothy Treadwell, the self-appointed defender of Alaska’s bears who was ultimately killed by one, wields almost indescribable power. It’s not only a gripping psychological portrait but a meditation on nature, on cinema, on identification and transference, on the many definitions of community. It’s the most dense film I’ve seen in ages – the only comparison I can think of is another documentary, Capturing The Friedmans – and one that will yield more treasures on repeat viewings.

The movie has had such an impact on me that I refuse to watch the parody version that’s currently making the rounds. I even refuse to link to it. Although I’m sure the ambitious among you can track it down on your own.

Miscellaneous: Link

LA Weekly recounts the story of Eric Red, the screenwriter who had a hand in some of the biggest horror films of the ‘80s and then killed two people in a bizarre traffic accident that was a prelude to a suicide attempt. It’s a long article, but worth it.