Back to today’s briefing

Story perspectives

Shepherd Battles Tradition and Modernity in Bear Film

2/16/2026

49 4 Full Breakdown

Summary

Story summary

The Shepherd and the Bear, directed by Max Keegan, examines tradition versus modernity in the Pyrenees through the reintroduction of brown bears.
The film follows Yves, a shepherd, as he faces challenges from nature and local laws.
It forms part of a neo-rural cinema trend about rural-urban tensions, alongside The Beasts and Alcarrás.
The rise of UK folk-horror contrasts with Europe’s pragmatic land use, revealing deeper issues.

1 of 1

Story summary

The Shepherd and the Bear, directed by Max Keegan, examines tradition versus modernity in the Pyrenees through the reintroduction of brown bears.
The film follows Yves, a shepherd, as he faces challenges from nature and local laws.
It forms part of a neo-rural cinema trend about rural-urban tensions, alongside The Beasts and Alcarrás.
The rise of UK folk-horror contrasts with Europe’s pragmatic land use, revealing deeper issues.