SDIFF 2020: Escape from Extinction
sdiff 2020As humanity becomes increasingly aware of the negative impact it has on the world, a natural reaction of anger and push for change also swells to the mainstream conscious. Countless films, shows and other forms of media have captured the devastating impact humanity has had on various species of animals that have lead many to go extinct. The newest film tackling this subject, Matthew R. Brady's Escape from Extinction, takes the common ideas associated with various topics within this conversation and pushes them, offering ideas that rebuttal mainstream claims while keeping the focus on a productive conversation pushing for true change.
Where many films of this subject take on a depressingly dark and cynical look at the impact humanity has on nature, Escape from Extinction is surprisingly optimistic. The film doesn't try to hide or downplay the consequence of humanity’s lack of empathy or care for the natural world around them, dedicating segments of the runtime to highlight species already lost to extinction that, no matter what, can not be saved but also gives proper time to show that humanity can change. The film crafts the issue of conversation as an obtainable goal that already has had legitimate impact on various species. Rather than tear viewers down and make them feel bad about what humanity has done to animals, Escape from Extinction empowers viewers, showing the equal good impact they can have on suffering species. Though the examples given are not groundbreaking for those who already have looked into the topic, the film serves as a great gateway for those who don't know much about the subject but want to get involved.
It is in this call to action that the film finds its most controversial conversation: the defense of zoos and aquariums. These institutions that keep animals in captivity have come under fire with groups and large portions of the public, fighting for their closure and eventual release of animals back into the wild. Escape from Extinction introduces the topic through the catalyst of outreach programs these institutions have through conservation efforts in the wild but by the second half of the film, the focus has devolved into a full response on the issues that get brought up when it comes to these attractions. Whilst this conversation is undeniably going to anger some, the larger issue within this conversation hurts the film, regardless of one's beliefs towards the subject. For a film that is supposed to be about conservation efforts, the focus of the film falls down a rabbit hole that it struggles to climb out of. The switch in topics long outstays its welcome and ultimately undermines the thesis that the first half was building. There is absolutely a time and place for the conversation that it is engaging in, but its role within Escape from Extinction is questionable.
No one can point to Escape from Extinction as a film that is simply going through the motions as it offers unique takes that push audiences and start to build nuanced conversations, but the craft is simply missing that is required for the conversation to fully connect. For those who are looking for a unique introduction to the subject of conservation, Escape from Extinction undeniably has moments where it stands as a strong recommendation but ultimately, the lack of focus leads to the documentary not quite standing out as a defining edition in its genre.
