The Cassidy Brothers, Nick and Cash, are set to premiere their latest film, "Saving Black Bear," in Maine after finding success with a community-driven approach to movie distribution. The brothers, who grew up in South Portland and Cape Elizabeth, previously brought their film "Childish Things" home to Maine, where they organized their own screenings rather than waiting for traditional Hollywood acceptance. The positive response from local audiences convinced them to continue this strategy.
Filmed on location in Orono, "Saving Black Bear" is a coming-of-age comedy-drama that highlights the importance of community. The story centers on a fictionalized version of Black Bear Cinemas, an independent theater facing hard times, and the group of misfit employees who rally to save it. The film's production was supported by Mainers both on and off screen, including South Portland native Julia Steady and veteran actor Xander Berkeley, who resides in Cornish and is known for roles in "Terminator 2," "Apollo 13," and "The Walking Dead."
Zach Hussey, the owner of Black Bear Cinemas, allowed the brothers to shoot in his theater after they screened "Childish Things" there last year. Nick Cassidy, the director, expressed gratitude for this community support, stating, "Community support like that is what makes Maine special and made 'Saving Black Bear' possible." Producer Cash Cassidy highlighted their motivation: "I've seen too many people waste years waiting for permission from Hollywood to succeed in the movie business. We knew there had to be another way, so we took a chance, and we found it here at home."
The film will have its world premiere at Black Bear Cinemas in Orono on September 9th, followed by a Portland premiere at O'Maine Studios on September 13th, sponsored by StreamState. A sneak preview was already shown at the Vacationland Film Festival in Biddeford on August 23rd. For more information on additional screenings, visit savingblackbear.com.
