Watch Wild Daze

Wild Daze is a powerful documentary that explores the devastating effects of wildlife trafficking in Africa. The film takes an unflinching look at the multi-billion dollar illegal wildlife trade, highlighting the incredible risks involved in protecting endangered species from poachers and smugglers. The movie is directed by Phyllis Stuart, a well-known filmmaker with a passion for wildlife conservation. Stuart expertly weaves together interviews with activists, experts, and locals on the ground in Africa to create a compelling narrative that is both informative and emotional.

One of the standout features of Wild Daze is its focus on the people who are most affected by wildlife trafficking. The film doesn't just show us images of slaughtered animals and empty habitats. Instead, it gives voice to the people on the front lines of this crisis, highlighting the devastating impact that the illegal wildlife trade has on local communities.

We hear from rangers who risk their lives every day to protect rhinos from poachers, as well as from villagers who have lost loved ones in conflicts between warring factions. We also hear from activists who are working tirelessly to combat wildlife trafficking, despite facing intimidation and violence from those who profit from this illegal trade.

At the heart of the film is the story of Lawrence Anthony, a conservationist and founder of the Thula Thula game reserve in South Africa. Anthony passed away in 2012, but his legacy lives on in the work that he did to protect elephants, rhinos, and other endangered species. Through interviews with his wife and colleagues, Wild Daze shows us how Anthony's work inspired others to take up the fight against wildlife trafficking.

The film also features stunning footage of Africa's wildlife, shot by award-winning filmmaker James Suter. From majestic elephants and rhinos to glimpse of rare pangolins, Wild Daze offers viewers a glimpse into the incredible diversity of life that is at risk due to illegal wildlife trade.

Another powerful aspect of the film is its exploration of the intersection between wildlife trafficking and human trafficking. Wild Daze shows how the exploitation of both people and animals is often intertwined, with poachers and smugglers using the same routes and methods to transport illegal goods. By shining a light on this connection, the film makes a strong case for why we need to take a holistic approach to fighting for justice in all its forms.

Overall, Wild Daze is a must-watch for anyone who cares about wildlife conservation and social justice. By showcasing the powerful stories of those who are fighting to protect Africa's wildlife, the film both informs and inspires, reminding us that while the challenges we face are great, so too is our capacity for hope and change.

Wild Daze is a 2020 documentary with a runtime of 1 hour and 43 minutes. It has received mostly positive reviews from critics and viewers, who have given it an IMDb score of 8.4.