Saving Flora

Saving Flora, directed by Mark Drury Taylor, and released in 2018, is a heart-warming family movie that features an eclectic group of performers including Jenna Ortega, Martin Martinez, and David Arquette. The film explores themes of animal rights, personal responsibility, family bonds, and the inspiring versatility of the human spirit when faced with adversity and moral dilemmas.

Even as the film’s title suggests, Saving Flora foregrounds the plight of Flora, an ageing circus elephant who can no longer perform tricks, becoming a financial burden to the financially struggling circus. David Arquette plays the role of the circus owner who is torn between the pragmatic concerns of running the business and the emotional attachment he has towards Flora. Authentic in his depiction of a distressed owner unable to sustain his business and take due care of animals, Arquette brings depth to the role, inviting the audience to experience the challenging dilemmas he faces.

Adding more layers to the narrative is the character of Dawn, portrayed by Jenna Ortega. She is the stubborn and brave 14-year-old daughter of the circus owner, showcasing a heady mix of adolescent brashness and deep compassion. Her rebellious arc is driven by intense love for the animal and a resounding belief in what is ethically correct. Dawn, upon discovering that Flora is to be euthanized because she can no longer perform, decided to take matter into her own hands. With an unfaltering commitment towards saving Flora, Dawn decided to steal her beloved pachyderm friend to ensure a better future for her.

Martin Martinez plays the character of a bumbling but well-meaning security guard who inadvertently becomes part of the plan and assists Dawn in saving Flora. Offering comic relief while also expanding the narrative arc, Martinez encapsulates a sense of innocent desire to do good despite his own vulnerabilities.

Tackling a serious issue with tact and sensitivity, Saving Flora also manages to imbue a sense of adventure into its narrative. The bulk of the film is dedicated to the daring escape and subsequent road trip where Dawn, Martinez, and a group of quirky characters brave tough odds and several challenging circumstances to take Flora to a sanctuary hundreds of miles away. Interweaving scenes of emotional bonding, unexpected friendships, nail-biting chases, and imbuing the theme of sacrifice for a noble cause, Saving Flora transforms from a straightforward family adventure into an allegorical life journey.

The film highlights the importance of preserving animal rights, prompting viewers to reconsider their stance on animal-based entertainment like circuses. It lays stress on the ethics surrounding animal care and the noble responsibility of humans towards species preservation. While the film adopts a clear stance on these issues, it does so without simplifying the complexities associated with the subject matter. The dilemmas that Dawns father, the circus owner faces illustrate the intricate dynamics and repercussions of the commercial use of animals, sparking thought-provoking debates among viewers.

Accompanying this intricate narrative is a breath-taking backdrop that provides the film with an aesthetic charm. The depiction of landscapes serves not just as a visual delight, but as a symbolic representation of the free world that awaits Flora – a sharp contrast against the cagey confines of her circus life.

Saving Flora is an evocative film filled with lessons on love, friendship, and sacrifice underpinned with the spirit of adventure. With power-packed performances, a captivating story, and a thought-provoking message, the film is a must-watch for audiences of all ages. It engages hearts, minds, and encourages viewers to reflect on their attitudes towards animal rights while enjoying an exciting adventure.