In this feature-length documentary, Troy James Hurtubise goes face to face with Canada's most deadly land mammal, the grizzly bear. Troy is the creator of what he hopes is a grizzly-proof suit, and he repeatedly tests his armour – and courage – in stunts that are both hair-raising and hilarious. Directed by Peter Lynch, the film has become a cult classic in the United States and is rumoured to be a favourite of director Quentin Tarantino.
Warnings: [Swearing and references to violence and death.]
A humorous and uplifting documentary about Troy James Hurtubise and his attempts at building a grizzly bear-proof suit. Ideal for classroom discussions, assignments, and projects designed around topics such as ethics in technology, filmmaking studies, media and Canadian pop culture. Consider the enduring popularity of the film, with some filmmakers highlighting it as an influence and inspiration. Why do you think this is? What makes this film a “cult classic” and why does it still resonate today? Did the film resonate with you? Explain your answer. In 1998, Troy won an Ig Nobel Prize in Safety Engineering for his work on the suit. What role do you think Troy’s experiments or similar projects have in scientific outreach, progress or innovation? Choose another subject who has won an Ig Nobel Prize; what did they win for, and how does their story compare to Troy’s?