DOC FILM
Elefamilia is a documentary film that looks to the future of African elephant care and sustainability. Willie Theison does not like the distinction "elephant whisperer" but there are very few ways to describe his unique connection with the world's largest land mammal. Drawing on over thirty years of experience, Willie has developed an uncanny perception of animal behavior, enabling him to bond with a small African elephant herd at the Pittsburgh Zoo.
This film takes you behind the scenes of this demanding and sometimes deadly profession as Willie and his team are confronted with many challenges as they prepare for the births of two new baby elephants. One of the mothers is an elephant named Moja who killed a handler in the past. With Willie's support Moja was able to continue her life at the zoo and given an opportunity to start her own family. Although Moja and Willie have been working together since the accident there are still serious concerns about how the birth will affect her behavior. Drama ensues as the babies Angelina and Zuri learn their place in their new elephant family.
Through Willie’s perspective we learn how the zoo is creating healthy family groups that live in natural herd structures where the elephants can “be elephants” and live a lifestyle that is as close to living in the wild as possible. These family groups are ambassadors for their relations in the wild, bringing awareness to all who meet them about the complex and fragile family systems that need to be protected in elephant communities around the wor
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Approximate running time: 56 minutes
"When Your Hands Are Tied" is an educational film that explores the unique ways in which indigenous youth are finding to express themselves in the contemporary world while maintaining strong traditional lives.
Since native youth do not often see reflections of themselves or their communities in mainstream media, we wanted to make a film that features contemporary native role models who are finding exciting and positive ways to direct their lives. We also wanted young people to learn the importance of self-motivation in combination with traditional teachings to help prepare for the challenges of everyday life.
Some of the people we meet are:
Navajo rappers, who rap in English and in Navajo, with a mission to communicate to young people the importance of embracing mainstream culture and education as well as their own native languages, customs and traditions.
Navajo punk rock musicians, whose style is Native American Punk-Rock or “Alter Native” with strong sociopolitical messages about government oppression, relocation of indigenous people, eco-cide, genocide, domestic violence and human rights.
Apache Skate Boarders, who through their travels across the country, have learned about filmmaking, photography, and self worth. They have also learned how to carry the message of who they are and where they come from as they pursue their own individual goals.
The Governor of Nambe Pueblo, an avid dancer started a break-dance team to help kids stay active and healthy. The break-dancers come from many tribes around the southwest and are encouraged to participate in their traditional dances at home.