June 19 was declared the International Day of Action for Elephants in Zoos by the group In Defense of Animals (IDA). That day, local newscasts showed footage of folks outside the LA Zoo demonstrating against elephants’ suffering and advocating for better living arrangements for them.
Coincidentally (or was it?) June 19 was also the world premiere of “One Lucky Elephant,” a thought provoking documentary directed by Lisa Leeman and written by Cristina Colissimo, based on the story of African elephant Flora and the man who “adopted” her, David Balding. After 16 years in the spotlight of a traveling circus, and the aging of both man and animal, David began to search for a satisfactory way to retire Flora from the circus. The process of finding the right place for such an enormous “daughter” became a complicated task that weighed heavy on the emotional tug that naturally ensues when separating two living creatures that have grown accustomed to one another. The film allows a view into the difficulties that result when keeping animals in captivity, while still honoring the bond that develops between animals and their caregivers.
“One Lucky Elephant” was screened in front of a sold-out audience that remained afterwards for a special panel discussion in which the writer, the director, and the producers of the film participated, as well as David’s wife, Laura Balding. It was a thoughtful conversation intended to make the audience reflect about the way humans treat animals today. Laura Balding said it nicely: “While our love for these animals is genuine, we must really take responsibility when caring for them.”
“One Lucky Elephant” screens again at the L.A. film Festival on Friday, June 25, at 5pm and Saturday, June 26, at 1:45 p.m, at the Regal Cinemas at LA Live. It is strongly suggested to pre-purchase tickets online. (Most films are sold-out by screening time.) Pre-purchased tickets can be picked up at the Will Call inside of the theater (no need to visit the ticketing booth outside). The theater validates LA Live parking stubs at $5 for a four hour stay.
More about this film at http://www.oneluckyelephant.com
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