Medicine of the Wolf

Medicine of the Wolf is an evocative and thought-provoking documentary film directed by Julia Huffman in 2015. Showcasing renowned speakers and environmentalists such as wildlife photographer Jim Brandenburg, legendary primatologist Dr. Jane Goodall, and Native American actor Saginaw Grant, the documentary paints a vivid portrait of the mystical creature which continues to captivate and polarize human societies - the gray wolf.

The documentary serves as a compelling exploration of the intricate relationship between humans and wolves, significantly reflecting upon human behavior and its direct impact on the natural order. The film is visually sumptuous, powered by the captivating work of famous wildlife photographer Jim Brandenburg. His stunning images lend a haunting elegance to the wolves and the natural world they inhabit. This unique cinematic experience reveals the often unseen lives of wolves, allowing the viewer to gain a snapshot of their existence and interactions in the wild.

Narrated by Brandenburg, Medicine of the Wolf emphasizes the importance of understanding and appreciating this often misunderstood creature. Being one of the few individuals who has spent extended periods of time among wolves in the wild, his profound insights form the backbone of the documentary, offering a perspective not commonly explored in the mainstream media.

Recognized for her groundbreaking work with primates, Dr. Jane Goodall is also a contributor in this educational and insightful film. She extends her expertise to the realm of wolves, empathizing with them and their struggle for survival. Her biological insights lend the documentary a needed scientific credibility, and her impassioned plea for coexistence and understanding calls for a reconsideration of humanity's conservative views towards predatory creatures.

Adding a riveting cultural perspective to the cinematic narrative, Saginaw Grant, a venerable Native American elder, emphasizes the significant place of the wolf in indigenous cultures and cosmology. Highlighting the wolf's role as a vital keystone species, Saginaw stresses the importance of the creature in maintaining the balance of the ecosystem. His insight serves as a cultural bridge, connecting our present to a past where humans coexisted harmoniously with wolves, and prompts viewers to rethink their own relationship with nature.

In its essence, Medicine of the Wolf dissects and questions misconceptions surrounding the predator, tackling difficult topics such as hunting policies, especially the controversial sport hunting of wolves in America. The documentary dives into the dichotomy that has always existed between man and wolf, incorporating the perspectives of hunters, farmers, scientists, and conservationists. Additionally, it uncovers the distressing realities of how the gray wolf, once numbering in the millions across North America, is now threatened by shrinking habitats, trophy hunting, and climate change.

Moreover, the film foregrounds the wolf's role in Native American traditions and folklore as a sacred, heroic figure telling of a time when wolves were not seen as menacing beasts but as respected spiritual entities, reminding us of the more harmonious relationships that once existed between humans and wolves.

Medicine of the Wolf is more than just an educational journey through the world of wolves. It is an impassioned plea to preserve and protect the beauty of our world and its many unique inhabitants. Besides being an exploration of the wolf as a species, the film is also a critique of human behavior towards the environment and a call to action against such harmful attitudes and practices.

In conclusion, Medicine of the Wolf is a must-watch for nature enthusiasts, wildlife lovers, and environmentalists alike. The film visits the grey wolf not just as an iconic American creature but also a vital part of our ecosystem. It turns a spotlight on the divide between those who see the wolf as a dreaded enemy, and those who see them as misunderstood animals deserving of our respect and protection. This documentary is a gripping and fascinating expedition into the wild, not just to the wolves, but also into human nature. It urges us to reconsider our relationship with the world we live in and the creatures we share it with.

Compelling, insightful, and enlightening, Medicine of the Wolf is an enduring testament to the power of the wolf and the urgent need for humanity to reassess its significan role in the survival of the planet.