Watch Ms. Bear

Ms. Bear is a heartwarming family film released in 1997 that touches upon themes of wildlife conservation, family dynamics, and the unconditional love between a child and an animal. The movie was directed by Paul Ziller and features a cast that includes Ed Begley Jr., Shaun Johnston, and young actress Kaitlyn Burke in pivotal roles.

The story follows Emily, portrayed by Kaitlyn Burke, a spirited and curious young girl with a deep affection for animals and nature. Living in a rural area, she is accustomed to the beauty of the wilderness that surrounds her and is taught by her father, Greg, played by Shaun Johnston, to respect and protect the environment. Her father is a stern yet kind man who instills in his children the importance of coexisting peacefully with nature.

One day, Emily makes a surprising discovery in the woods near her home – a black bear cub that seems to be all alone, separated from its mother. Fearing for its safety and driven by her innate compassion, she decides to take the cub home, believing it is the only way to ensure the cub’s survival. This sets in motion a series of events that bring the family together in ways they never expected.

Upon finding out about the little stowaway, Emily's family is initially hesitant but soon becomes enamored with the bear cub, whom Emily affectionately names Masha – a nickname based on "Ms. Bear." Her father, however, understands the complexities of raising a wild animal and tries to make Emily aware of the inevitable challenges they will face. Ed Begley Jr. plays a wildlife officer named Greg Bradley, whose role becomes instrumental in the unfolding story as he grapples with the cub's future and his duty to uphold wildlife laws.

As time goes on, the family encounters the various difficulties of caring for a growing bear in a human household. Masha, as one might expect, is not your typical pet, and her bear instincts lead to heartwarming yet sometimes comedic situations that test the patience and resolve of Emily and her family. Through these experiences, they learn the true meaning of responsibility and the complexities involved in interacting with an animal that is not meant to be domesticated.

Meanwhile, Emily, displaying determination beyond her years, seeks to educate herself and her community on the needs of wildlife. Her love for Masha drives her to become an advocate for bears and the preservation of their natural habitats. She learns how humans impact the environment and what can be done to prevent the endangerment of species like Masha's.

The narrative also delves into the community's reaction to having a bear cub in their midst. While some neighbors are supportive and enchanted by the cub, others are apprehensive and fearful of the potential danger a wild animal could pose. These mixed responses add to the film's exploration of the various ways people view and engage with wildlife.

As the movie progresses, Emily and her family must ultimately confront the reality that Masha cannot remain with them forever. The story takes viewers on an emotional journey as the characters navigate the moral and ethical challenges of raising a wild animal. They must make tough decisions that weigh their personal attachment to Masha against what is best for her long-term well-being as a wild creature.

The film aims not only to entertain but also to impart an educational message. It underscores the importance of understanding that while wild animals can be adorable and seem harmless, especially as infants, they belong in their natural habitat, and human intervention should be handled with care and respect for the laws of nature. The audience is encouraged to reflect on the significance of conservation and the delicate balance that must be maintained to ensure the survival of species like Masha's.

With breathtaking scenes of the natural world, moments of light humor, and a touching narrative, Ms. Bear captures the imagination and empathy of viewers. It is a family-centric movie that can be enjoyed by all ages, leaving them with a greater appreciation for wildlife and a compassionate perspective on the bond between humans and animals. The film’s depiction of a young girl’s dedication to a cause greater than herself is particularly inspiring, showcasing the potential impact one person's passion can have when channeled into positive action for the environment.

Ms. Bear is a story of love, growth, and the bittersweet reality of letting go for the greater good. It’s a charming movie that resonates with anyone who has ever cared deeply about an animal and grappled with the question of how best to protect our furry, feathered, or scaled friends in a world that is increasingly encroached upon by human development.

Ms. Bear is a 1998 adventure movie with a runtime of 1 hour and 35 minutes. It has received moderate reviews from critics and viewers, who have given it an IMDb score of 5.6.