UNITED STATES — Nearly two years after her death, a new documentary chronicling Grizzly 399’s final year of life is coming to screens around the world.
399 Forever follows the world’s most famous wild grizzly bear, both in the park and online, through the eyes of wildlife guides, photographers, conservationists, and the community that formed around her. The film explores how one bear became an international celebrity and a symbol of the complicated relationship between people and wildlife.
When independent filmmaker Alex Stavrou began documenting 399, he thought he was making a film about a remarkable bear. He had no idea he was filming the final chapter of an American icon.
The documentary features acclaimed wildlife photographer Thomas D. Mangelsen and voices including Savannah Rose, Bo Welden, Evan Watts, Kristin Combs, Anna Knaeble, Dr. Chris Servheen and grizzly attack survivor Shayne Burke.
The film explores what happens when a wild animal becomes a celebrity — and the complicated collision of wildlife, tourism, social media, conservation and human development.
On October 22, 2024, Grizzly 399 was killed in a vehicle collision south of Jackson, Wyoming. Her death became international news. 399 Forever captures what headlines could not: the intimate, complicated, on-the-ground reality of the community surrounding her during the final year of her life.
The film tackles questions about human-wildlife coexistence, including the role of bear-resistant trash cans in preventing conflict. It also features the harrowing story of Shayne Burke, who survived a grizzly bear attack in Grand Teton National Park in 2024, highlighting how carrying bear spray can save lives.
With support from local wildlife safety organization Bear Aware, 399 Forever aims to inspire conversations about protecting both people and bears.
399 Forever is available to rent or buy on Amazon Prime Video starting Friday, Oct. 16. Visit www.399forever.com to learn more.
Visit https://bearaware.com to find information about bear sprays rentals.
