“Bear” tells the story of a young girl named Mila and her struggle with depression, represented by a large, physical bear. The film aims to be a metaphorical representation of mental illness, specifically depression, and the silent struggle it can cause for a young person. Nobody should have to deal with the weight of mental illness alone, and it should be a topic that people feel comfortable talking about, stigma and judgement free.
It gets easier to talk about a struggle when you have others around you. Children may have an easier time relating to and explaining their feelings after seeing “Bear,” and the film may help them understand a struggling friend, family member, or even themselves.