Story perspectives

Documentary Challenges Zoos' Colonial Roots and Animal Freedom

2/16/2026

Summary

Story summary

Jessica Sarah Rinland's documentary critiques traditional zoos as hierarchical spaces limiting animal interactions.
The film highlights emotional bonds between animals and caretakers and feeding interactions.
Using 16mm film and infrared footage, Rinland questions animal freedom and colonial legacies.
The Buenos Aires Eco-Park, modeled after European zoos, symbolizes imperialist roots.
The film ends with a Piaget quote that oversimplifies human–nature relationships, ignoring geopolitical factors.

1 of 1

Story summary

Jessica Sarah Rinland's documentary critiques traditional zoos as hierarchical spaces limiting animal interactions.
The film highlights emotional bonds between animals and caretakers and feeding interactions.
Using 16mm film and infrared footage, Rinland questions animal freedom and colonial legacies.
The Buenos Aires Eco-Park, modeled after European zoos, symbolizes imperialist roots.
The film ends with a Piaget quote that oversimplifies human–nature relationships, ignoring geopolitical factors.