Director’s Cut: Mark Davis, Jan Jensen and “The Bear and the Owl”

May 11, 2017 PBS Wisconsin Leave a Comment

Director’s Cut kicks off its 10th – that’s right – 10th season this Friday night on Wisconsin Public Television. We have somehow managed to outlast Cheers and Seinfeld, which were both on-air for only a measly nine seasons! And we have an excellent line-up of films coming your way this season.

Season 10 begins with a film called The Bear and the Owl, a documentary about a young girl with a rare illness and a stranger who becomes her pen pal – so to speak.

The story features Joni Lillard, who was about to have a life-threatening surgery. Bob Jensen, a school superintendent, and father of three, reads about Joni in the local paper. This marks the start of a long-lasting, and unlikely friendship after Bob sends her a beautifully concocted get-well card. This “random act of kindness” from a total stranger was a nice enough gesture – but what Bob does next is simply mind-boggling.

The film is the brainchild of Director Mark Davis and Executive Producer Jan Jensen. Yes, there is a relation! Jan is Bob’s daughter, which gives the viewer unique insight into her father and what motivates a man like Bob to inspire others with kindness. Bob inspired not just Joni, but many others over the course of his life as evidenced in Davis and Jensen’s storytelling. Joni’s mother, Debbie, also joins us on the program to share what impact Bob had on their lives.

The Bear and the Owl is the story of how one selfless act can have a domino effect and inspire others to do good deeds. This film does its part, leaving viewers wanting to make the world a better place. If you want to feel better about the world we live in, be sure to tune in to Director’s Cut this Friday night at 10 p.m. and Director’s Cut Presents at 10:30 p.m. on Wisconsin Public Television, your home for independent film. See you then!

Director's Cut Pete Schwaba

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Alyssa Beno

I am the editor of Airwaves, our monthly program guide for members. When I’m not highlighting our incredible programs, I’m pedaling the countryside, hiking at a state park, making soy candles, thrift shopping or hanging out with my husband and miniature schnauzer.

Andrew Carlson

As a community engagement manager for PBS Wisconsin, I create lasting relationships with communities around the state, connecting folks through our programming, outreach, and events. Outside of work, I love hiking with my partner, traveling, making music, and meeting friends old and new.

Becky Marburger

As a member of our Marketing and Communications team, I help share PBS Wisconsin's story, including the content we produce and opportunities we provide. Outside the office, you'll likely find me with my nose in a book, outdoors or farming!

Erik Ernst

I'm the Communications Associate Director at PBS Wisconsin. When I'm not letting people know about all of the awesome work the station is doing around the state, you'll find me planning my family's next trip to somewhere fun, warm and likely connected to a Disney Park.

Ian Lewitz

I'm a PBS Wisconsin publicist and former production assistant for the Wisconsin Life project. I enjoy exploring Wisconsin's many lakes and spending the summer months camping around the state.

Inga Witscher

Inga Witscher is a passionate Wisconsin dairy farmer, cheesemaker and host of PBS Wisconsin’s Around the Farm Table.

Luke Zahm

Luke Zahm is a James Beard-nominated chef and owner of The Driftless Cafe in Viroqua, Wisconsin. He shares his passion for discovering the stories behind the food we eat as host of Wisconsin Foodie.

Marci Glaus

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Mike Devine

I’m a Public Relations Specialist for PBS Wisconsin who enjoys promoting the wide range of programming that we offer. When I’m not sharing the stories of PBS Wisconsin content, I enjoy going to concerts, watching movies, reading and traveling (Always open to recommendations for my next destination!).

Mark Riechers

Mark is a digital content editor for PBS Wisconsin. A photographer, radio producer and writer, he has experience telling stories from everything from a history of Milwaukee beer ads to processing death through game development.

Pete Schwaba

Pete Schwaba is a stand-up comedian, writer, director and host of "Director's Cut" on PBS Wisconsin. His writing and directing credits include “A Guy Thing” and “The Godfather of Green Bay.” Pete’s TV writing credits include “Are you Smarter than a 5th Grader?” as Jeff Foxworthy’s writer/producer and the sports comedy show “Sports Soup.” Pete is married with two children and splits time between Los Angeles and the Midwest.

Samantha Nash

I’m a project manager at PBS Wisconsin, and formerly an associate editor at WisContext. When I’m not scouring the state for fun music and arts content, I’m usually being forced to go on a hike by my demanding border collie or being forced to read on the couch by my demanding cats.

Sigrid Peterson

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Tara Lovdahl

As a publicist for PBS Wisconsin, I love helping people learn about and engage with our wonderful programs. I also enjoy bicycling, baking, playing board games and watching movies (especially musicals).

Tawny Morrison

As the education communications specialist for PBS Wisconsin Education, I get to support teachers by sharing incredible education resources with them. In my free time I do a lot of teaching and learning of my own – with a pair of escrima sticks in my hands at a martial arts gym.