“What makes us human, I think, is an ability to ask questions, a consequence of our sophisticated spoken language.”

-Jane Goodall

This is perhaps one of the most important films that I have ever seen. Racing Extinction is a documentary about the importance of animals all over the world and how humans have been treating them. Aka poorly. Many of us don’t realize the day-to-day effects we all are having on animals and how our actions have and are contributing to the extinction of countless species. It offers an inside look on the animal trade and how poorly these magical creatures are treated all over the world in the name of “medicine” and “tourism” and “entertainment.” While the film is tragic and shocking, it also is very hopeful and gives a look into what we can all do to save many of these animals on the brink of extinction. There are some brilliant people all over the world doing incredible things, putting their lives on hold and dedicating themselves to these causes, to save animals from extinction and create a path for them to not only survive, but thrive.

I viewed this film a year ago in a documentary class where I was fortunate enough to have Olivia, one of the producers come present and speak to us on the making of the film and what they continue to do to spread awareness. I recently saw this film at a screening at the Chautauqua house where Olivia was there also to have a discussion about animals and conservation and the power of the film.

One really cool aspect of the film is the involvement that Elon Musk has with the project in promoting conservation. We all live in this beautiful world and it is our job to protect it and save it for generations to come.

Let me know what you think of the film and if you haven’t seen it, watch the trailer below!

-Kaila