Now playing at select theatres
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.