Are You WIlling To Give Back To The Wild?

Synopsis

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In the heart of Zululand, a group of dedicated conservationists fights to protect Africa's endangered wildlife from the brink of extinction. This powerful documentary follows the stories of these passionate individuals as they navigate the challenges of preserving species like elephants, rhinos, and wild dogs in a landscape fraught with human-wildlife conflict and poaching. Through intimate interviews, they reveal their deep bonds with the animals, the sacrifices they make, and the dangers they face daily to prevent these majestic creatures from disappearing forever.

The film explores the complex relationship between the conservation reserves and the surrounding local communities. It highlights the communities' critical role in conservation efforts while also addressing the historical tensions caused by displacement and resource restrictions. It underscores the importance of education and collaboration in changing perceptions and fostering a shared commitment to protecting the natural world.

As poaching syndicates exploit poverty and desperation, the documentary shows the heartbreaking impacts of wildlife crime on both the animals and the people who protect them. Yet, amidst the challenges, there is hope—seen in the tireless efforts of those who monitor and care for these species, and in the new generation of conservationists rising to continue the fight.

Within The Fence Line is a compelling call to action, a testament to the resilience of both humans and wildlife, and a celebration of the profound connection between all living beings. It demonstrates that saving these species is not just about protecting animals; it is about preserving the delicate balance of our ecosystem and ensuring a future where humans and wildlife can coexist in harmony.

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Director's Statement

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Within The Fence Line is more than a documentary; it's a reflection on the urgent choices we face in the battle for our planet’s future. Filming in Zululand, I was struck by the profound bond between the people and wildlife struggling to coexist in a landscape shaped by conflict and its history. This story is born from the courage, determination, and love of a community of conservationists who dedicate their lives to protect Africa’s most iconic species from the relentless forces of poaching and habitat loss.

What drew me to this story was the complexity of the human-wildlife relationship in this part of the world. The men and women who fight for these animals’ survival do so with an understanding that saving them requires more than fences or firearms—it demands empathy, education, and collaboration. This is a fight that goes beyond preserving elephants, rhinos, or wild dogs; it's about fostering a deeper understanding of how our fates are intertwined.

This film is a call to action. It shines a light on the challenges faced by those on the frontlines of conservation, and it celebrates the quiet, unseen heroes whose work often goes unnoticed. It also confronts us with the uncomfortable reality of the human impact on our natural world, while inspiring hope through stories of resilience, cooperation, and the tireless efforts of those who refuse to give up.

I hope Within The Fence Line will move audiences to consider their own role in this struggle and to recognize that the fight to save these majestic creatures is, in fact, a fight for ourselves. I believe that through understanding, compassion, and collective action, we can forge a path toward coexistence—one where humans and wildlife thrive together.

Ultimately, this film is an invitation to see the world as I do: a place where every life has value, and where stories—when told with heart—have the power to ignite change.

— Jannis Rothermel

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Looking Ahead

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Within the Fence-Line is currently on its exciting film festival journey, having been selected for multiple prestigious festivals and named a finalist in several categories. This powerful documentary continues to garner recognition for its compelling storytelling and impact. We’re thrilled to announce that it will be released to the public in early 2025—stay tuned for its official debut!