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Born to Be Wild

Name: Born to Be Wild
Director: David Lickley
Released: 2011
Duration: 40 min

Representation Score

3.3/10

Limited

2011

Director

David Lickley

Runtime

40 minutes

Average Rating

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New Showbiz Analysis

Born to Be Wild is an observational study of ecological empathy that prioritizes animal welfare over human social structures. Its dual-narrative structure highlights the symbiotic relationship between human caregivers and orphaned species in Borneo and Kenya. The film achieves moderate diversity through its depiction of female scientific leadership and its international geographic scope. However, because the subject matter is non-human, it lacks the narrative tools to address complex human identity politics or systemic power dynamics. Ultimately, the documentary remains neutral regarding social and political frameworks. It functions as a biological study rather than a critique of human social hierarchies.

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Category Breakdown

Does Born to Be Wild have LGBTQ+ representation?

Minimal

The documentary focuses solely on primatology and zoology. There are no LGBTQ+ characters or narratives in this study of animal rehabilitation.

How does Born to Be Wild portray gender?

Fair

Dr. Birute Galdikas and Dame Daphne Sheldrick are portrayed as highly competent scientific leaders. While women play a central role, the film does not explore interpersonal gender dynamics.

How racially and ethnically diverse is Born to Be Wild?

Good

The film's settings in Borneo and Kenya offer a global perspective. It focuses on biological subjects rather than the socio-political identities of local human populations.

How does Born to Be Wild represent religion and culture?

Fair

The narrative prioritizes a secular, scientific worldview centered on environmental stewardship. It emphasizes ethical caretaking rather than religious or traditional frameworks.

Does Born to Be Wild include disability representation?

Minimal

There is no focus on human disability or neurodivergence. The only vulnerability shown is the physical state of the orphaned animals being rehabilitated.

Present on Screen

Features prominent female scientists leading conservation efforts.
Provides a global perspective by filming in diverse ecosystems like Borneo and Kenya.

Limited or Absent

Lacks engagement with human identity politics or overlapping social structures.
Does not address the socio-political identities of the local human populations.

Official Synopsis

Born to Be Wild observes various orphaned jungle animals and their day-to-day behavioural interactions with the individuals who rescue them and raise them to adulthood. The film unfurls in two separate geographic spheres. Half of it takes place in the rain forests of Borneo, where celebrated primatologist Dr. Birute Galdikas assists baby orangutans; the other half takes place on the arid savannahs of Kenya, where zoologist Dame Daphne Sheldrick works with baby elephant calves.

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