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World Cinema Documentary Competition

Sentient

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Australia2026105 minEnglish
Sentient

An investigation into laboratory research on animals exposes a hidden world in which it’s not just the animals getting hurt. The story of Dr. Lisa Jones Engel, a primatologist turned animal welfare advocate, asks whether harming animals and ourselves in science’s name is justified.

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An investigation into laboratory research on animals exposes a hidden world in which it’s not just the animals getting hurt. The story of Dr. Lisa Jones Engel, a primatologist turned animal welfare advocate, asks whether harming animals and ourselves in science’s name is justified.

Animal testing, specifically on primates, has long been controversial, but its supposed necessity for medical breakthroughs has made many in the medical community and general public accept it. Sentient questions this assumption with an open mind and deep research, drawing on evidence and testimony from people on the front lines of animal experimentation around the world, some of whom have been traumatized by what theyve seen and done. With disturbing footage smuggled out of highly secretive laboratories and a rigorous approach that includes conflicting voices, a complicated portrait of the efficacy of animal testing for the betterment of humankind emerges. Director Tony Jones asks us to consider, with great empathy to animals and humans alike: While we might have a need to test on animals, do we have a right? — SS

This film contains mature content and is not recommended for audiences 17 and under.

Available in person. Also available online for the public (January 29–February 1) and credentialed press and industry (January 28–February 1). 

World Cinema Documentary CompetitionAll FeaturesScience & TechnologyNonfictionClosed CaptionOpen CaptionU.S. Only- less

Screenings

in persononline
  • Jan 26, 5:45 PM MST
    Premiere

    The Ray Theatre

    Park City

  • Jan 27, 6:00 PM MST
    Screening

    Megaplex Redstone - 4

    Park City

  • Jan 29, 2:45 PM MST
    Screening

    The Yarrow Theatre

    Park City

    Open CaptionOpen Caption

  • Jan 30, 2:45 PM MST
    Screening

    Broadway Centre Cinemas - 3

    Salt Lake City

  • Jan 31, 11:00 AM MST
    Screening

    Megaplex Redstone - 4

    Park City

  • Jan 29, 3:00 PM GMT -
    Feb 2, 6:55 AM GMT
    Online Screening

Credits

  • Director(s)

    Tony Jones

  • Screenwriter

    Tony Jones

    Rachel Grierson-Johns

  • Producer

    Ivan O’Mahoney

  • Executive Producer

    Sarah Ferguson

  • Editor

    Rachel Grierson-Johns

  • Additional Editor

    Orly Danon

  • Composer

    Helena Czajka

  • Directors of Photography

    Andy Taylor

    Aaron Smith

    Vanessa Carr

  • Sound Design and Mix by

    Nigel Christensen

  • Archival Producer

    Susan Parry

  • Field Producer

    Lin Buckfield

  • Company

    In Films

  • Website
  • Contact

    Ivan O’Mahoney

    ivan@in-films.com

    +61 400 402 726

Meet the Artist

Panelist Name

Tony Jones

    Tony Jones is the former host of several Australian current affairs TV programs. As an investigative reporter and foreign correspondent, he won seven Walkley Awards. He covered the end of Soviet communism, the Balkan wars, the Gulf War, the rise of the Afghanistan mujahideen, and the end of South Africa’s apartheid.

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