This blog follows the journey of Sarah and Greg as they made their film. To see a trailer, read more, learn about the progress of the film or share your story visit AMERICANBEARFILM.COM


60 days. 25 States. 5 Bears.

Sarah and Greg are setting out on an adventure exploring American trust and fear through hospitality. Armed with their charm, courage, and a camera, they will rely on the kindness of strangers for a home each night, and if they're lucky, a few meals along the way.


The story began in summer 2009 when Greg exclaimed in his sleep, "We have to go to Bear, Colorado!" Unfortunately, no Bear actually exists in Colorado. However, there are five Bears in America, fortuitously located in a perfect a 'U' around the continental U.S. - in Washington, Idaho, Arizona, Arkansas, and Delaware. Following the trail of the Bears, Sarah and Greg will travel through 25 states of all different cultures, demographics, populations, and Americans.


Through conversations with locals, we will explore our themes on a personal level and embrace the stories that turn strangers into neighbors. Our discussions with scholars and professionals will dig into the philosophy and nature of a core aspect of what makes us human. We will understand why (or if) we let people into our hearts and our homes.

Check us out at: facebook.com/BearDocumentary

4.23.2010

Today we hit the streets of New York to shoot our promo video. We interviewed many people about kindness from strangers and their thoughts on our project -- I don't want to give much away because soon enough you'll be able to see the edited video yourself! But it definitely got all three of us very energized and optimistic about our summer.

Writing grants, kickstarting corporate sponsorship appeals, contacting scholars, authors, and professionals -- all in a day's work. But I'm pretty sure none of us have been more excited than we are right now. Actually speaking with strangers and being on camera today was such a thrill, and this summer will be the most fascinating of our lives.

Also... Nate promised to post something beautiful to read. So keep your fingers crossed that our mysterious cinematographer makes an appearance here soon.

4.20.2010



A quote from a man we would love to interview for our film:

“When you’re traveling, you are what you are, right there and then. People don’t have your past to hold against you. No yesterdays on the road.”
William Least Heat Moon, Blue Highways (1982)

His writing is amazing!

4.19.2010

Katrina Kopeloff is in the midst of making us a logo! We are super excited about her recent sketches and can't wait to see how it looks.

check out her work at katrinakopeloff.com

Look out for it - hopefully sometime soon!