What Parents Need to Know
Parents need to know that this biographical documentary follows the life of English anthropologist Dr. Jane Goodall, who has dedicated herself to championing environmental and animal causes for more than 50 years. There's nothing really inappropriate in the film, but some of the topics -- and the length of the movie -- make it a beter fit for tweens and teens than young kids. Goodall does mention both of her husbands and the romances that led up to her marriages, as well as her husbands' jealousy (there's also footage of her kissing her first husband). Goodall also talks about some of the dangers facing the chimpanzees and the horrors that some communities in Tanzania deal with (bush meat, poaching, rape). Overall, this is an inspiring story of a pioneering women's tireless efforts to promote peace.
- Families can talk about how they can apply Goodall's messages about peace and conservation to their own lives.
- How is Goodall's private life portrayed in relation to her professional life? Did she "balance" life and work well? How does her son feel about growing up with her as a mother?
- How is this documentary different than other films about animal rights or environmental issues? Is focusing on person's life more compelling than concentrating on the animals themselves?