The bear capital of Europe, with over 6000 animals roaming through the Transylvanian forests and beyond, Romania is fascinated with bears. A breeding program started by the dictator and hunting enthusiast Ceausescu boosted numbers, but the bears remained even after his regime was dismantled.
This thought-provoking film follows three brown bear cubs through their first year as they first explore their natural environment and then later urban regions. Finding the balance between searching for food and staying in a safe environment is challenging for the bears, as coming close to humans is hazardous.
Interviews with three Romanians reveal the country’s attitude to bears, from the shepherd trying to protect his flock, to the activist working to educate people on dealing with a bear encounter, and the wildlife ranger who wants to keep humans and bears out of each other’s way.
