The Last Male on Earth

The Last Male on Earth, a fascinating film from 2019, invites us to reflect on our ecological responsibility and the future of our planet's biodiversity. Directed by Dutch filmmaker Floor van der Meulen, known for her profound exploration of complex issues, the 72-minute documentary is sure to leave you both entertained and contemplative. The film captures the journey of the last remaining Northern White Rhino, a mournful testament to the world's reckless overexploitation of wildlife.

The documentary begins with a unique setting: a security enclosed Kenyan wildlife reserve where Sudan, the last northern white rhino male on the planet, resides under 24-hour surveillance. The rhino is guarded with the intensity of a world leader, protected from poachers who seek to exploit the rare beast's body parts that are worth their weight in gold. Symbolizing the rhino's impending extinction and highlighting humanity's role in this sad predicament is the main premise of the movie.

The director artfully narrates this heartbreaking tale of extinction by juxtaposing it with the humans who orbit Sudan's world, each with their own complexities and dilemmas. This representation of anthropocentrism allows the audience to experience the dilemma from various perspectives, from the relentless efforts of the rangers to the businesses exploitatively profiting from Sudan's fame.

The Last Male on Earth cleverly weaves a narrative that doesn’t skimp on humor and irony, despite the high stakes and bleak circumstances. From hopeful attempts to fundraise for Sudan's species through dating apps and plush toy replicas to 'Save Sudan' marketing campaigns and tour operators capitalizing on the last chance for a photo with the endangered creature, the film reveals the paradox of our efforts that oscillate between conservation and commercialism. It portrays how humans both mourn and monetize the decline of other species, shining a light on our hypocritical relationships with the natural world.

While the film primarily focuses on Sudan, it also introduces the audience to his two female companions, silent and secondary figures dwarfed by Sudan's fame but just as essential to the survival of their species. The human character portraits are equally compelling. Armed guards who selflessly risk their lives to protect these animals, scientists who frantically try to develop IVF techniques that can save the species, and the marketing teams strategizing Sudan's brand are all drawn with delicate nuance.

The cinematography is remarkable in its use of visual narratives to convey the gravity of the situation. There’s a haunting beauty in the panoramic shots of the African landscape, a symbol of the natural world we stand to lose. Details like Sudan’s aged, wrinkled skin, or the soft eyes that have borne witness to the encroachment of his environment, are captured with striking poignancy. This evocative visual storytelling allows the viewer to truly empathize with the plight of these majestic creatures.

Going beyond the typical wildlife documentary format, The Last Male on Earth forces us to not only confront the consequences of human greed and ignorance, but also examine whether our attempts at solution may be part of the problem. It skilfully combines elements of ecology, social commentary, geopolitics, and human empathy to highlight the intersection of conservation and commodification.

In essence, while The Last Male on Earth narrates a somber tale of animal conservation, it tells a much bigger story – one of humanity's relationship with the natural world. It manages to bring the audience face-to-face with their own complicity in the harm inflicted on Earth’s biodiversity, making it a compelling watch for anyone interested in reflecting on the impact of our current lifestyle on future generations.

Irrespective of whether you are an environmental enthusiast or simply someone looking for a thought-provoking documentary, The Last Male on Earth is a must-watch. Expect to be captivated, amused, distressed, and hopefully inspired to action after watching this profound and poignant film.