Every once in a while, something comes along that impacts us like nothing else has. Earthlings, the documentary on how aspects of human society are completely financially dependent on animals, is one such thing. This is not a radical or a fanatical production by any means. Some of you may be suspicious, as you may have seen productions in the past whose aim it was to disgust and shock you. Earthlings' aim is only to educate. Narrated by Joaquin Phoenix, he tells the story in a matter of fact, monotone drill that seems inappropriate for the footage being viewed. It is innately effective however, as the footage demonstrates the everyday lives of thousands of animals on our planet. Although certain parts of the film may indeed disgust and shock you, this is all part of the educational feature of the film. The information is there, for those who care to know about it.Now, the goal here is not to turn everyone into vegans. This is not only impossible, but irrational. No one is suggesting this. What the essential point is, that if more people were actually aware of how animals were treated and supposedly "humanely killed", then perhaps the situation for these animals could change. How many people actually really know? Some people think they know, but unless they have seen this film, or worked in a slaughter house, they do not know. Some people choose not to know. This, I will argue, is inherently wrong. If you choose to eat other animals ( and yes, it IS a choice), then at minimum, you need to be aware of what the animals you are eating have gone through to be on your plate. You are responsible for what happens to them, whether you choose to admit it or not.
Finally, other aspects of animals and humans are detailed, including pets, clothing, entertainment, and science. Some things in this film are extremely difficult to watch. I will not lie about this. It is something everyone needs to see.
For more information, please see the following websites;
Earthlings
Nation Earth
