We’re delighted to able to announce details of this startling Netflix Original documentary directed by Luis Ansorena Hervés & Ernest Riera, and produced by Polar Star Films.
The Last Dolphin King (¿Qué le pasó al rey de los delfines?
A world-famous dolphin trainer is accused of abusing animals and his prestigious reputation implodes; at the same time the dolphin show industry is called into question. The Last Dolphin King explores the dangerous mix between ambition, power and money and questions whether animals should ever be used for human entertainment.
In 2015, animal rights activists posted a video showing a world-renown trainer mistreating dolphins at a popular dolphinarium in Mallorca, Spain. The video prompted an international scandal: the dolphin trainer was José Luis Barbero, who had just been hired by the prestigious Georgia Aquarium, in Atlanta (USA). Barbero had a reputation as a visionary and pioneer, who over this 30-year career, radically changed the world of dolphin shows. He was man who demanded everything of himself, his staff and his animals – this time it appeared he’d gone too far.
Two worlds collide in The Last Dolphin King; a lucrative entertainment industry, which treats intelligent animals as valuable commodities and animal rights activism, using hardline tactics to achieve the movements goals. Was the video of Barbero an attempt to bring down an outdated and cruel industry or was it’s real intention to destroy one man´s questionable reputation? Those at the heart of this dark and tragic story share their version of events for the first time.
IDFA screenings:
- 14 Nov; 17:15; Tuschinski 1
- 15 Nov; 18:45; Munt 12
- 18 Nov-13:15; Munt 13
- 20 Nov; 09:30; Rialto VU: Zaal 4