In the Footsteps of Elephant

In the Footsteps of Elephant is a remarkable 2020 Disney nature documentary that provides an up-close look at the lives of African elephants in their natural habitat. Narrated by actor Jeremy Sisto, the movie shares the struggles and successes these majestic creatures face in their day to-day lives, which are guided by family bonds and defined by resilience.

At the core of this film is a mother elephant named Athena who is seen leading her family across the arid lands of Africa, directing them in search of water and food. The journey is fraught with threats and unforeseen challenges that are inherent to the unpredictable yet beautiful African wilderness. Her eldest daughter, Princess, also plays a key role in the story and viewers get to watch her learn the ropes, gradually preparing herself to possibly take over in the future.

By portraying the elephants' life stages such as the birth of a baby elephant, the viewer gets immersed in a captivating narrative filled with both heart-warming moments and nerve-wracking events. Building on Disney’s tradition of family-friendly storytelling, In the Footsteps of Elephant is sure to touch the hearts of young and old viewers alike.

Jeremy Sisto, known for his roles in Six Feet Under and Law & Order, brings a rich and comforting voice to the narration. His clear and engaging storytelling guides the audience through the elephants’ journey, offering insights into their resilience, wisdom and familial bonds. Sisto manages to convey a sense of discovery, awe and emotional investment. His narration does a great job in making the story more immersive and engaging, strengthening the film's emotional connection with its audience.

While the film is heavily centered on Athena and her family, the vast landscapes they traverse become characters in their own right. Incredible sweeping views of the African continent are offered thanks to the expert work of renowned cinematographers Mike Chase and Martyn Colbeck. The panoramic sweeps of Africa's landscapes, aerial views of the terrain and extreme close-ups of the elephants add an extra layer of depth and wonder to the movie. Viewers get to witness awe-inspiring natural wonders; from open plains, dense forests, sprawling savannas, soaring cliffs, and sparkling rivers.

Notably, the stunning visuals of In the Footsteps of Elephant serve as a reminder of the delicate and deeply interwoven relationship that exists between nature and its inhabitants. Chase and Colbeck use their lenses not just to entertain, but also to educate viewers about the importance of preserving the natural world, its animals, and their habitats.

While highlighting the undeniably harsh realities of nature, the film also celebrates the strength and resilience of elephants, especially in the face of increasing environmental changes and human-induced challenges. The documentary includes scenes of human-elephant interaction, presenting a commentary on the impact of human activity on these wonderful creatures and their homes. It thus acts as a subtle call to action, urging viewers to respect and protect our biodiversity.

In the Footsteps of Elephant also delves into behind-the-scenes elements of nature filmmaking, subtly reminding audiences of the risk and passion that documentarians pour into their work. The film crew goes to great lengths to capture truly monumental scenes, often placing themselves in the direct path of danger. Shots of the crew planning, waiting, and executing their coverage provide a fascinating glimpse into the often-unseen aspects of creating a nature documentary.

While firmly grounded in documentary style, In the Footsteps of Elephant is not detached from elements of drama. The creators clearly aim to engage audience emotions, going beyond mere depiction of facts and weaving a tale of courage, survival, loss, and hope. This emotional narrative, coupled with the starkly beautiful visuals and high-quality production values, makes the film appeal to more than just nature enthusiasts.

In the Footsteps of Elephant is a fascinating sensory experience that leaves viewers with a newfound appreciation for elephants and the natural world. By touching on larger issues like climate change and human-wildlife conflicts, the film seeks to promote a culture of conservation, one beautiful shot at a time. It is a must-watch for those interested in wildlife, conservation, and the incredible, resilient nature of elephants.