Directed by award-winning filmmaker Alex Rivera, the film was shot on location in Nepal and follows the transformative work of Carol Buckley and Elephant Aid International (EAI) to improve the welfare of captive elephants. Through peaceful, hands-on collaboration with local mahouts (elephant handlers), Carol leads a chain-free, pain-free revolution, demonstrating that there is a better way to care for elephants in human captivity.
Rather than resorting to confrontation, Carol employs a phased, pragmatic approach, encouraging cooperation and mutual respect. By building trust and offering viable alternatives, she helps shift deeply rooted practices from within, empowering mahouts to care for their elephants more humanely and sustainably.
Film Festival Recognition
Awards
- Golden Sun of the Festival (2017) – International Environmental Film Festival Barcelona (FICMA)
- Animal Award (2017) – Cinema Verde Film Festival, Florida, USA
Official Selections
- Louisville’s International Festival of Film (LIFF) – 2019, Kentucky
- Wild & Scenic Film Festival – 2017, California
- Orlando Film Festival – 2017, Florida
- Enfoque International Film Festival – 2017, Mayagüez, Puerto Rico
- Kolkata International Environmental Film Festival – 2016, India
Watch the Full Film
