Big Sky Doc Film Fest 2025 - Interview with Director: Alix Blair about her film Helen and the Bear
Mike interviews Alix Blair about her film Helen and the Bear.
At 70, Helen often acts like an uninhibited teenager, sneaking cigarettes and exploring the bounds
of her sexual identity. But at home, she cares for her 96-year-old husband Pete, a once-prominent
Republican politician who now depends on her absolutely. Captured in intimate verite by director
Alix Blair, HELEN AND THE BEAR is a lyrical portrait of the beautiful and complex relationship
between Helen and Pete as they enter the final chapter of their marriage. Helen’s inner journey is
brought to life through decades of journal entries and archival footage that reveal a struggle
between her love for Pete and a desire for freedom. As Pete’s health worsens and Helen
anticipates life without “Bear,” she wrestles with what’s been lost and won through life by his side.
At 70, Helen often acts like an uninhibited teenager, sneaking cigarettes and exploring the bounds
of her sexual identity. But at home, she cares for her 96-year-old husband Pete, a once-prominent
Republican politician who now depends on her absolutely. Captured in intimate verite by director
Alix Blair, HELEN AND THE BEAR is a lyrical portrait of the beautiful and complex relationship
between Helen and Pete as they enter the final chapter of their marriage. Helen’s inner journey is
brought to life through decades of journal entries and archival footage that reveal a struggle
between her love for Pete and a desire for freedom. As Pete’s health worsens and Helen
anticipates life without “Bear,” she wrestles with what’s been lost and won through life by his side.
Website: https://helenandthebear.us/