I randomly happened across this movie when I was reading an article on nbcnews.com about how the contents of this documentary had forced Pixar and Disney to make changes to the storyline of the movie "Finding Dory"; the sequel to "Finding Nemo". From there I was intrigued and looked up the movie trailer on youtube; see below. My next step, find out if it was playing in Portland. A quick search on flixster revealed that I was in luck. I went yesterday.
Growing up as a kid I for so long wanted to be a marine biologist. More specifically, I wanted to work with dolphins and whales. In fact, I had dreams of working at Sea World. We went on a family vacation to Orlando when I was in elementary school and yes Disney World was cool, Cape Canaveral was fun, but it was Sea World who stole the show and was by far my favorite place.
Sadly, I did not pursue my marine biology dreams. This was mostly due to the "Jaws" movies. After watching those I decided that working with sharks was not in my future and figured at some point when studying I would have to do that, so I decided to follow other career avenues. I've never lost my love for marine mammals and have on many an occasion considered rekindling my childhood interest.
I found this movie to be an amazing film. It was eye opening, thought provoking and emotional. I used to think that Sea World was doing important work and that the trainer's working with the animals were leading experts in their field. This film has shaken that long held belief in me.
I feel fortunate that when I worked at UCSB that I had the opportunity to go on a whale watching tour and see these majestic animals in their natural environment. It is an experience that I very much want to do again in the next year.
I highly encourage everyone who has gone to Sea World and has a love for marine mammals; specifically orcas, to go and see this film. It may change your thoughts and ideas on animals in captivity.
