Blood Lions is a documentary film that delves into one of the most ethically murky sides of the wildlife tourism industry that not many people know about; the 'Canned Hunting' industry. Released in 2015 and directed by Bruce Young and Nick Chevallier, this shocking exposé uncovers the nefarious activities occurring under the camouflage of conservation efforts in South Africa.

Blood Lions follows the journey of environmental journalist and safari operator Ian Michler, and American hunter Rick Swazey, who opted to purchase a lion online, as they bring this covert industry to the fore. The story explores the multibillion-dollar South African 'Canned Lion' industry, where lions are bred in captivity, often under deplorable conditions, to be later released in closed, confined areas to be hunted for sport, often by international tourists who would not usually have the skill or opportunity to hunt such a prestigious big game animal in the wild.

The backdrop of the documentary is the incredible landscapes of South Africa, juxtaposing the breathtaking beauty of the land with the grotesque business that is carried out behind the secure fences of over 200 private farms and hunting outfits. The film is not just raw, emotional footage; it comes bolstered with a bevy of facts, interviews, figures, and insider testimonies that lend weight to its allegations.

It highlights the sobering fact that there are more lions in captivity in South Africa than in the wild, while it dives deeper into the intricacies of interaction between economics, conservation ethics, and the diplomatic and geopolitical implications of the business. It also showcases the connections of the canned lion industry with other exploitative practices, such as cub-petting and lion bone trade, laudably establishing an overarching narrative about the commodification and exploitation of wildlife.

The work of director Bruce Young and Nick Chevallier is commendable as they skilfully intertwine the narrative with a mixture of undercover footage, interviews, and expertly shot sequences of Michler's and Swazey's experiences. The filmmakers compel the audience to question some deeply ingrained ethics and preconceptions about wildlife interaction, trophies, and conservation.

The gravity of Ian Michler, a conservational journalist, is commendable. Throughout the film, Michler sustains a delicate balance between his passion for wildlife conservation and the necessity to remain objective as a journalist. His experience of working over a decade on this issue adds credibility to the documentary while providing an insightful look into both the ethical and practical implications of the industry.

Conversely, seeing Rick Swazey, an American hunter who had planned a canned lion hunt embark on this journey and slowly peeling layers off to reach the core of the sordid business offers an interesting arc to witness. His transformation paints a picture about the cultural misperceptions and lack of awareness shared by many of these hunters who fall unknowingly, or knowingly into the trap of canned lion hunting.

Destined to spark conversation and action, Blood Lions is an eye-opening depiction of an industry hiding in plain sight. The film's central question addresses ‘Canned Hunting’, drawing attention to its links with the broader value chain including exploitative breeding, ‘voluntourism’, cub petting, and the lion bone trade. It is as much a captivating treatise on wildlife exploitation, as it is a desperate plea for awareness and action amidst governmental blind eyes and international tourists' ignorance.

Unflinching, and at times uncomfortable, Blood Lions is an absolute must for all wildlife enthusiasts, conservationalists and ethical tourists alike. This documentary unintentioanlly tempts the viewer to look away, yet subsequently compels them to watch and engage with the harsh realities of how the pursuit of human pleasure and profit can ride roughshod over nature's dignity.

Arguably, it is a distressing narrative, a tale of commodification, exploitation, and a disregard for life, which aims to challenge and inspire viewers to question their responsibilities as tourists and as global citizens whilst creating awareness of the importance of ethical tourism and informed decision-making. Blood Lions manages to take a complex issue and make it accessible, providing food for thought for anyone who cares about wildlife and conservation.