Film / News
Lion Ark comes to Bristol
“Born Free has nothing on this compelling real life story,” enthused the Hollywood Reporter of Tim Phillips‘ award-winning documentary Lion Ark, which follows the dramatic rescue and relocation of 25 lions from Bolivian circuses.
The story begins with an undercover investigation by Animal Defenders International (ADI), which revealed evidence of appalling conditions in circuses across South America. Bolivia was first to ban such animal acts altogether. But the circus owners simply flouted the law and carried on as before. So ADI embarked on what was dubbed Operation Lion Ark, tracking down eight illegal circuses and rescuing the imprisoned animals. This led to several tense confrontations, many of which were captured on camera. Eventually, 25 lions and four monkeys were liberated and airlifted 5,000 miles to a sanctuary in Colorado.
Already a big hit on the international film festival circuit, where it has bagged six awards, Lion Ark comes to Bristol hot from London’s Raindance Film Festival. Phillips and producer/ADI co-founder Jan Creamer will be present for a Q&A after the Arnolfini screening on Nov 28. They will also reveal the latest news about their ongoing campaign in Peru, where, once again, ADI is helping the authorities to enforce a ban on animals in circuses. Advance tickets are available from the Arnolfini box office. For more on the film, go here
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