Screenings December 4–6, 2025 | DeFuniak Springs, FL

DeFuniak Springs, FL — The Paper Bear, a feature-length film and conservation initiative by The Paper Bear nonprofit, will officially begin its Florida theatrical run at one of the state’s most beloved cultural institutions: the Florida Chautauqua Theater. Screenings will take place December 4–6, marking the first opportunity for Florida audiences to experience the award-winning conservation film on the big screen.

Housed in the 1921 Murray Theater, the Florida Chautauqua Theater has been a cornerstone of Walton County’s arts community for more than four decades. From its origins as a volunteer-led troupe to its role today as a regional destination for performance, education, and cultural enrichment, the theater embodies the spirit of community storytelling, making it the ideal place to launch The Paper Bear’s statewide debut.

The Paper Bear combines live-action wilderness footage with 2D animation to explore Florida’s ecosystems through the eyes of a father and son on a journey to find the Florida black bear. As they travel, stories shared around the campfire transform into animated sequences that offer a unique perspective on the region’s biodiversity.

Following its world premiere at the Florida Film Festival 2025 and its recognition as a finalist in the Trailblazer Category at Jackson Wild—widely considered the “Oscars® of environmental filmmaking— The Paper Bear continues to capture the hearts of viewers and critics alike for its original storytelling and its ability to elevate the natural beauty of Florida’s black bears and the wild landscapes they call home.

“The Paper Bear is both a love letter to Florida’s wild heritage and a reminder of the deep connection we all share with nature,” said Arix Zalace, Director of The Paper Bear.

The film features rare, close-up footage of wild Florida black bears in their natural habitat, captured by Zalace, who spent over two and a half years documenting their behavior in the field. Informative and accessible for all ages, The Paper Bear encourages audiences to connect with nature and better understand the importance of conservation.

More theaters across Florida will be added in the coming weeks, with a multi-city run continuing into early 2026 ahead of the film’s future streaming release.

Watch the trailer: https://youtu.be/mdEEtpi0O_o View theater dates & tickets: www.thepaperbear.org/theaters

About The Paper Bear The Paper Bear is a nonprofit organization dedicated to raising awareness of the natural beauty and biodiversity of Northwest Florida through storytelling, film, and education. Through a blend of creative media, community engagement, and science-based advocacy, the nonprofit aims to inspire a deeper connection to nature and mobilize support for conservation efforts. Learn more at www.thepaperbear.org or follow us on Instagram at @ThePaperBearFilm.

About Betancourt Group Betancourt Group is a full-service communications and marketing agency dedicated to advancing environmental and social impact. We partner with visionary organizations, startups, and creatives, ranging from leading conservation groups and social enterprises to artists and innovators, who are shaping a more sustainable and inclusive future. Our expertise spans climate technology, ocean conservation, sustainable materials, and the creative industries. From global film festivals to groundbreaking cleantech ventures, Betancourt Group translates purpose into visibility through media relations, thought leadership, digital storytelling, and creative campaigns. By bridging science, business, and culture, we spark conversations that matter and elevate voices driving meaningful change. For more information, visit www.groupbetancourt.com.

The Paper Bear Makes Its Florida Theatrical Debut at the Historic Florida Chautauqua Theater