Earthlings

TRIGGER WARNING: images of gore

Using hidden cameras and never-before-seen footage, Earthlings chronicles the day-to-day practices of the largest industries of the world, all of which rely entirely on animals for profit.

The 2005 documentary Earthlings covers five points of cruelty to animals inflicted upon them by humans. The film is mostly made up of archive footage and hidden cameras. It opens with a message about viewer discretion, which is well needed, as the majority of the footage contains violence towards animals (obviously), the killings of animals, and strong language. It is narrated by Joaquin Phoenix, directed by Shaun Monson, co-produced by Maggie Q, and features music by Moby, all of whom are vegan.

The film's points of focus are on animals as pets, as food, as clothing, as entertainment, and as scientific research. The film relies on its hidden camera footage and the content of said footage to drive home the point that humans abuse animals in the most disgusting ways. It aims to educate the viewer with the emotive footage, and attempts for them to change their ways – either by going vegetarian or vegan, to stop attending zoos and circuses, to adopt pets from shelters instead of buying them from breeders or pet shops (whose animals are mostly brought into the shop from places like puppy farms), to be more aware about the household and makeup products that they use (and the company's stance on animal testing), to not wear leather, fur or suede... the list is endless.

It is a definite watch for anyone who cares about animals and their welfare. The footage is sometimes very hard to watch (and has left me in tears many times), but there are lessons to be learned from this film.

“Of all the films I have ever made, this is the one that gets people talking the most. For every one person who sees Earthlings, they will tell three.” - Joaquin Phoenix