For 13 years, Timothy Treadwell spent his summers on the peninsula of Alaska, living among the wild bears in the last five years, recording his life there. His winters were spent visiting elementary schools and making appearances on television, in an effort to educate people about the status of the animals he loved. This continued until October 5, 2003, when Treadwell and his girlfriend were attacked and killed by a bear.
Using images of Treadwell, as well as interviews with friends, family and local authorities, the director Werner Herzog crafts a fascinating documentary about his favorite themes: obsession, madness, and man’s place in nature. Herzog, who plays an active role in the film, identifies with Treadwell, even though their world views are at opposite ends of the spectrum.
Addressing the camera, Treadwell, who had no formal training with animals, he saw himself as a “kind warrior” who was there to protect the bears from poachers, developers and others who would do them harm. But others saw him as a deluded crackpot, suffering at least from a naivete about her role in the lives of bears. (When waxes poetic Treadwell on a pile of fresh bear dung, it is difficult not to agree with them) … (Barnes & Noble)
