Rescuing elephants from questionable conditions is still an ongoing problem. In the latest documentary simply titled Lucy: The Stolen Lives of Elephants, the focus is taking aim at the Edmonton Valley Zoo and figuring out what’s the best way to take care of the last pachyderm this place will ever house. Although the victory seems hollow as she is no longer an attraction, the work needs to raise awareness of how to medically and emotionally take care of her in the current conditions she lives in.
The last time I looked at this topic was with a documentary made by local filmmakers. When Elephants Were Young (review) looked at a different side of the debate. I was really interested and even interviewed one producer. When William Shatner is narrating, I had to wonder how deep his passion is too. I could’ve asked him at Fan Expo Vancouver 2025 if he remembers that work and where he stands now versus accepting the job because it was a pay cheque. As for Cher’s efforts to move another elephant named Kaavan to a Brazilian sanctuary, that’s at least well documented.
Sometimes, understanding the behind-the-scenes activities is more important than star power. Not every zookeeper or animal handler is in this occupation for the right reason. When the mistreatment gets discovered, this work by Fern Levitt sheds light on what needs to get changed. I’m sure this filmmaker found how to deal with this topic after learning about Les O’Brien’s crusade not only in print but also in other media appearances. After learning how the business was run, this former zookeeper discovered that not everyone respected every animal species as Steve Irwin did.
Thankfully, there is one result which makes this look at an industry have something of a happy ending. A bill regarding the use of the bull hook, and how it is deemed inhumane to use on animals, is awaiting being passed in some countries and already enacted in others. Although this device has a place in history, the society today thinks otherwise.
When this meaningful documentary is a call for further action, I hope those closet animal activists will come out to support. And when elephants can’t speak for themselves, this gentle giant deserves people like Les and Fern to make the world aware there’s still backward thinking going on in all corners of the industry. It’s not just about Lucy the elephant, but also for others as well.
4 Stars out of 5
Lucy: The Stolen Lives of Elephants Trailer
Theatrical Release Schedule:
- March 21 – Carlton Cinema in Toronto, ON
- April 2 – Westdale Theatre in Hamilton, ONAdditional screenings TBC
Broadcast Premiere:
- April 6, 2025 – Documentary Channel