The Zebra and the Bear is one of many documentaries in which a family opens up and shares with the world their improbable ordeal. It’s not that the genre is generic, but are there really many ways to tell these stories? Every family’s journey is the most important in their eyes, and of course, as viewers, we are supposed to observe what makes some stories more important than others.
That being said, Amber Olsen’s story could perhaps be taken as yet another story, even though it’s not. Her daughter, Willow, was born with a fatal, ultra-rare genetic disease known as Multiple Sulfatase Deficiency (MSD). There have been efforts to find a cure and treatments, but the problem is that MSD is too rare, and gene therapy is anything but affordable.
The Zebra and the Bear follows Amber’s quest in full detail. And although her story is similar to that of millions of parents who just want the best for their children, there is something groundbreaking about her journey to find a cure for Willow: Amber will not stop until the truth is spoken out loud, the way it should be.
It is literally what sets The Zebra and the Bear apart from other stories of the same nature. Doctors, specialists and all those involved are required to deliver their testimonies in a way that everyone could understand but without compromising the facts. As Willow’s health worsens, her mother just insists that the truth is more important than sugar-coating the ordeal.
Patrick O’Connor, the director of the eye-opening documentary Look Away, Look Away, dives into the Olsens’ journey and breaks all the barriers. The intimacy is broken to the point that his camera feels a bit invasive. But again, it’s Amber’s medium to ask everyone to do something for Willow and for those who will go through MSD at some point.
Amber’s story only gets more dramatic when her marriage can’t stay intact in the face of her activist views and Willow’s condition. She’s an example of resiliency, and the documentary serves as the platform that allows her to become a hero up until Willow’s body decides to shut down. It’s a heartbreaking conclusion that I didn’t expect. Not because I believe in miracles but because Amber’s spirit stayed strong, and sometimes, I make the mistake of believing in the impossible.
The Zebra and the Bear is an essential view into the dynamics of a health system that’s flawed, ancient and unfair. No human being should go through the challenges that Willow and her family have had to endure. Her small, fragile body won’t hold her beautiful and playful soul. But the mission is not over. Amber’s story will continue, even if she decides not to be involved with activism. Her attitude, optimistic, loving and uncompromised, is the inspiration of those who’ll have to enter a match no one should have to play
Film critic. Lover of all things horror. Member of the OFCS. RT Approved Critic.
