The present invention is directed to an article of manufacture, which can be a fiber and or a film. In one aspect, the fiber or the film comprises a polyvinyl alcohol (PVOH) and an inorganic filler comprising particles having an average diameter of less than about 20 micrometers. The PVOH has a degree of hydrolysis of greater than about 95% and is present in a range between about 20 wt. % and about 99 wt. % based on the total fiber weight. Methods of making the fibers and films are also disclosed.