Review of Blackfish (Tilikum): A Powerful Documentary on Captivity, Exploitation & Human-Animal Relationships
The story of Blackfish (Tilikum) is an emotionally charged and powerful documentary that will leave you questioning the practice of keeping orcas in captivity. From the moment Tilikum is taken from his family in the wild, viewers are captured by his plight, as he is subjected to a life of confinement and mistreatment at SeaWorld. The film follows Tilikum’s life, from his capture in 1983 to his eventual freedom in 2013, highlighting the struggles of animals kept in captivity for human entertainment. Through interviews with former trainers and other experts, we learn about the psychological effects of captivity on orcas and their dire need for social interaction. The documentary also brings attention to the ethical dilemmas surrounding orca captivity and provides compelling evidence that these majestic creatures should not be kept in tanks. It’s a heartbreaking yet ultimately uplifting story that will stay with you long after it’s over.