NHDocs Explores The Animal Kingdom

Saturday’s offerings from the New Haven Documentary Film Festival begin and end with two different films about two different animals, each with their own loyal followers.

Guinea Pig Diaries takes an in-depth look at the lovable furry creatures that have surpassed their stereotyped image as animals on which scientific testing can be done to become cuddly companions to some and all-out obsessions to others. Directors Olympia Stone and Suzanne Mitchell take viewers on a journey from the International Guinea Pig Exhibition in Germany to a guinea pig rescue in Chatsworth, Calif., and many places in between, documenting the relationships these pets and owners have formed. In the process viewers learn the stories of these increasingly more popular pets, who have 90 percent of the same DNA as humans.

The lasting bonds guinea pigs form with their owners and how they flourish when living with other guinea pigs is highlighted (Switzerland has made it illegal to own just one). Informative as well as entertaining for the whole family, Guinea Pig Diaries may even leave viewers wanting to cuddle a guinea pig (or two) of their own, or at the very least, have their hearts warmed by the connections formed and the support offered between these animals and the people who love them.

This film is being shown at the New Haven Free Public Library.

NHDocs and Compassionfest present Storkman, a film that is part of an event being held in Park of the Arts on Audubon Street that features vegan food trucks and vendors as well as a post-screening discussion with representatives from JP Farm Animal Sanctuary.

Directed by Tomislav Jelincic, this fascinating and visually stunning film tells the story of two storks, Malena and Klepetan, and the man who becomes their caretaker and biggest supporter, Stjepan Vokic.

After Vokic finds Malena injured, he adopts her and creates a safe and loving environment for her to thrive in at his own home. When Kleptan comes into Malena’s life, Vokic then becomes their greatest ally, helping them raise their babies year after year when Kleptan returns home from Africa. The love story between the birds as well as their relationship with Vokic becomes legendary in their village and beyond.

This touching film focuses on the support and care Vokic offers and receives. It is also a testament to the desire we all have to be needed and to make the world a more loving and less lonely place after a loss is suffered.

Tickets for the above events and others on the film festival’s lineup can be purchased at the NHDocs website here.