A Rare Look at the Secret Life of Orangutans - A review by Wandalynn.

A Rare Look at the Secret Life of Orangutans

By Wandalynn Ellis

7/13/18

In this short film, “A Rare Look at the Secret Life of Orangutans” two passionate people dive into the unique world of the Wild Orangutans. Tim Laman, an award winning Photojournalist and Bird Expert with National Geographic and Melissa Lesh, an award winning Documentary Film maker, and founder of Emerging Earth Films from the United States, have constructed a creative look into the Secret Social and Cultural Structures of the Orangutans.

In the lowlands of the Borneo Rain-forest, there is a research station headed by Cheryl Knott. This long term project also has a young adventurer, who captures “rare and never before seen footage of these ‘People of the Forest.’” This piece had dramatic cinematography, and a mood of passion and conviction. There is much strength to this film; including it being directed, produced and edited by one or two creative people.

The combination of still camera, drone shots, and digital movie cameras gave the film depth, along with the soft yet dramatic music gave it a sense of urgency, sadness yet also heartwarming.

 There is no plot or special effect to mention as this is a documentary. However; the transitions and the shots chosen by directors’ and editor made the film flow smoothly and added to the story. The professionals featured in this film know what they are talking about and have invested their lives to the cause. I feel these are great strengths and add credibility to the film.

The use of natural light was the only way to capture the natural setting, while the studio lights and backdrop were used for the standard interview taking place. Simple captions were used in the editing, giving the names and occupation for each professional. This film was insightful and informative but I was disappointed by the length.

This important research will be of service to our interests of keeping our Earth as healthy possible, by keeping these researchers, biologists and professors in their chosen field of study. In the scene in which Tim Laman was crossing paths with an Orangutan, he had a flash of insight into the similarities between us. Tim was crossing the river, at the very same time as an Orangutan, also being filmed, trying not to get his feet wet.

Bringing science and creativity together, we can bring a factual story to the world in a meaningful way. There are many causes for Documentary Film Makers to bring the evidence of how important environmental issues are.

In showing humans that these great creatures are extraordinarily similar to us, we can have a compassion and empathy towards them and try to protect them. With so many species going extinct every year it is with hope that we don’t lose these “People of the Forest.” We need people like these to bring these very important social, environmental and cultural issues to the forefront. Making an impact on people with my work is a dream. Introducing facts, real people and the camera to tell the story, and represent your audience much like a democracy.