Two chimpanzees, Tommy and Kiko, are at the center of a legal battle for personhood rights led by animal rights lawyer Steven Wise.
Synopsis
Two chimpanzees, Tommy and Kiko, are at the center of a legal battle for personhood rights led by animal rights lawyer Steven Wise.
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Synopsis
Steven Wise stands in a New York courtroom, advocating for the legal rights of chimpanzees. His focus is on Tommy and Kiko, former performers now living in inadequate conditions. Directed by D. A. Pennebaker and Chris Hegedus, "Unlocking the Cage" follows Wise and the Nonhuman Rights Project as they present evidence of animal mistreatment. The film addresses the legal and ethical challenges surrounding animal personhood, questioning the boundaries of human and non-human rights in the United States.
What Critics Say
The GuardianThis well made film about an organisation fighting for the rights of animals with advanced cognitive abilities presents some fascinating legal and ethical issues.
Deep Dive
Why Watch
- Meet Steven Wise, a leading animal rights lawyer.
- See the courtroom battles for animal personhood.
- Find out about legal rights for chimpanzees and dolphins.
Did You Know
- The film was directed by D. A. Pennebaker and Chris Hegedus.
- Unlocking the Cage is Pennebaker's final film before his death in August 2019.
- Variety's critic accused Steven Wise of staging a publicity stunt.
- The documentary has a runtime of 90 minutes.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Who directed Unlocking the Cage?
Unlocking the Cage was directed by D. A. Pennebaker and Chris Hegedus.
What year was Unlocking the Cage released?
Unlocking the Cage was released in 2016.
What is the main focus of the documentary?
The documentary focuses on the efforts of the Nonhuman Rights Project and lawyer Steven Wise to grant limited legal personhood rights to chimpanzees, whales, dolphins, and elephants.
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