Annabelle & Bear

I was so glad to see some excitement in Detroit last weekend with out any bad connotations attached to it! I think the makers of Annabelle and Bear scored a direct hit not only with the movie audience, but hopefully sent a message that good things can and do come out of Detroit. As for the movie, it was just the right mix of edgy drug related fallout combined with tear-jerky sentimentality. The mother, Annie, turned in a stellar performance as she turned her back on her child to get the next fix. Bear was played masterfully by Curt Massof who has a bright future ahead of him in the film industry. His aloof biker personality couldn't hide the tender affection he found hiding deep inside him. The on screen magic that took place between him and adorable Annabelle was as real as any true-life father and daughter. Olivia Walby virtually wrote her own "golden ticket" with this performance. The rest of the cast was just as believable and I couldn't be prouder of our home-grown talent. I hope everyone gets a chance to see this one!!

From both an industry and consumer point of view, Annabelle and Bear is what so many people are seeking from big screen entertainment. From the first scene through to the last, I was engrossed in each of the characters, wishing I could jump in to the scene and take little Annabelle to safety or slam a door on those blocking Annabelle from a loving future. The soundtrack furthered the experience in each and every scene. The locations could not have been more perfect. I had to remind myself afterward that this was fiction as the dialogue, interactions and character development left me feeling it was a true story.

Wow! What an awesome and REAL film. The way it was shot, gritty and real - and the believable cast who brought these characters to life made this movie one that I would see again! The kid in it, Annabelle, was one of the cutest kids I've ever seen and I think she was 2 years old! Amazing! I've told so many people about this film already and how it was all produced in Michigan with all Michigan folks. Pretty cool for a state that is under the negative radar these days! The dude, Bear, is quiet and simple. When this kid gets dropped off in his life, he doesn't really know what to do with her. Poor kid seems to be getting the cold shoulder from everyone - that ticked me off. You really feel for this kid from the start. She's funny too. Bear can't help but fall for her too but then the stuff really hits the fan, which turns him into a BEAR! I loved one scene where he kicks this bad dude's BUTT!!!!!! (Can't give it away, sorry!) So two BIG THUMBS UP for Annabelle & Bear. Looking forward to seeing it again. I'll admit it, I got a little choked up!

ANNABELLE & BEAR is a true indie film--a low budget, no big (or even small) name stars, no flashy effects--just a compelling story driven by real characters. The film's greatest assets are its two title roles. Both actors, a two-year-old girl and a burly bearded biker respectively, pull off performances that seldom hit a false note and really draw empathy from the viewer. The cinematography is also top-notch, capturing all the grittiness Detroit, MI has to offer. Writer/Director Amy Weber does a more than competent job helming her first feature, managing to spin its simple yet unique narrative without ever coming off cloying or forced. While the editing could use some tightening, and a few of the music cues are repetitive, overall this is an accomplished work by a new filmmaker with a keen eye and a terrific heart.

I went to the viewing of this show and I cant express in word how beautiful and touching it was .I had a lot of different emotions running through by head during the show. I was amazing to find out that it was 100% Michigan made I am very proud of everyone on the cast and crew they deserve a BIG HAND for a Job well done My only hopes are the it will come to the theaters so that every one can experience what a great movie it is. I have talked none stop about the movie and everyone keeps on asking WHEN IS IT COMING TO THE SHOW? that's a good question!

Amy and Tina Weber did a great Job.Little Annabell will steal your heart the minute she opens up the mouth and ask what are we going to do today Bear?????????