Maine's Cassidy Brothers Debut 'Saving Black Bear' in Local Cinemas

The Cassidy brothers, Nick and Cash, are bringing their latest film, Saving Black Bear, to Maine audiences with a world premiere at Black Bear Cinemas in Orono on September 9th, followed by a Portland premiere at O'Maine Studios on September 13th. The film, a coming-of-age comedy-drama shot on location in Orono, tells the story of a fictionalized Black Bear Cinemas facing hard times and the misfit employees who unite to save the independent theater that brought them together. The project is a testament to the community support that made it possible, from the theater owner who offered his venue for filming to the local cast and crew that brought the story to life.

For the brothers, who grew up in South Portland and Cape Elizabeth, this film represents a deliberate departure from the traditional Hollywood model. After their first feature, Childish Things, they bypassed conventional distribution and instead hosted their own screenings in Maine, packing theaters and proving that a local, community-driven approach could work. 'I've seen too many people waste years waiting for permission from Hollywood to succeed in the movie business,' says producer Cash Cassidy. 'We knew there had to be another way, so we took a chance, and we found it here at home.'

The film stars South Portland native Julia Steady alongside legendary character actor Xander Berkeley, a Cornish resident known for roles in Terminator 2, Apollo 13, and The Walking Dead. The production was supported by local businesses and residents, reflecting the same collaborative spirit depicted on screen. Director Nick Cassidy highlights the role of Black Bear Cinemas owner Zach Hussey, who offered the theater for filming after hosting a screening of Childish Things. 'Community support like that is what makes Maine special and made Saving Black Bear possible,' Cassidy says.

The film had a sneak preview at the Vacationland Film Festival in Biddeford on August 23rd, and additional screenings are planned. For more information, visit savingblackbear.com. The brothers' success with self-distribution challenges the notion that filmmakers must rely on traditional gatekeepers, offering a model that emphasizes local engagement and direct audience connection. As independent theaters face economic pressures, Saving Black Bear serves as both a tribute to these community institutions and a blueprint for filmmakers seeking alternative paths to share their work.