How I Became An Elephant - temp tag

How I Became An Elephant (2012) is a powerful, thought-provoking, and transformational journey about a 14-year-old American schoolgirl, Juliette West, who embarks on a mission to Thailand in order to raise public awareness about the harsh realities and horrifying conditions of the country’s captive elephant population.

The movie is an eye-opening expose directed by Tim Gorski and Synthian Sharp that combines elements of adventure, activism, and education, cross-cutting between the California lifestyle of a teenager and the complex ecosystems of Thailand. The protagonist, Juliette West, takes it upon herself to make a difference in saving the dwindling elephant population, predominantly in Thailand but also globally, sending out a clear message that one person can make a considerable impact.

The film dives deep beyond the simple facts of elephant mistreatment and reveals the complex web of cultural, economic, and political forces that mesh to perpetuate the brutal treatment of these magnificent creatures. It unravels the stark and harsh realities of ivory trafficking, elephant poaching, and tourism-related cruelty.

In her journey, Juliette meets with world-renown Asian elephant conservationist, Lek Chailert, who is the founder of the Save Elephant Foundation. Lek provides an intimate understanding of her own venture into elephant conservation, understanding their personalities, intelligence, and their pivotal role in the environment. She's hailed as the 'Elephant Whisperer' and her boundless passion and dedication to the cause deeply motivate Juliette on her path.

Lek introduces Juliette to the ugly truth behind the tourism industry’s elephant rides, describing the grotesque process known as 'the crush box,' which is designed to break the spirit of a baby elephant to make it submissive to humans. These hidden machinations of the industry have a shattering impact on Juliette and fuels her drive to make a difference.

Carol Buckley, the co-founder of the Elephant Sanctuary in Tennessee, also provides her insights in the film. She offers a differing perspective on elephant conservation by focusing on the necessity of creating favorable living conditions for rescued elephants to heal and proliferate.

One of the pivoting moments is Juliette's endeavour to help rescue a sickly, old elephant named Somsri. The heart-tugging journey to free Somsri becomes a symbol of the broader fight for elephant rights and the young teen's determination.

How I Became An Elephant is a stirring film that seamless juxtaposes compelling storytelling and hard-hitting facts with striking cinematography that showcases elephant-human relationships, the beauty of the wild, Thai culture, and the gritty realities of a multi-billion-dollar tourism industry.

The film vividly details the intelligence, social habits, and deep emotional aspects of elephants, cultivating a deep sense of empathy for these endangered beasts. The narrative juxtaposes the haunting and often brutal realities against the innocent curiosity and optimism of a teenage girl, creating an absorbing sub-narrative on human empathy, transformation, and action.

How I Became An Elephant weaves together a thought-provoking narrative that will awaken its audience's hearts to the plight of elephants in Thailand and worldwide. The film stands out as an inspiring tale of how a single spark of intent can ignite a massive social transformation.

In conclusion, How I Became An Elephant is not just a beautifully crafted film but an urgent call to action. It reflects a strong message that no matter who you are or where you come from, you can contribute significantly and affect change. Our actions have consequences, and it's our job to ensure they are not devastating for nature and the animals that form a crucial part of it.