ELEPHANT DIARIES

• Genre: Conservation and responsible tourism
   
• Location: North Thailand
   
• Delivery: 2007-2008
   
• Length: Undecided
   
• Title: Elephant Diaries
   
• Other partners: Nuts and Friends Productions
  Directed by Herco Van Hout
   

New Earth Films was commissioned by Nuts and Friends Productions to help out on the filming of 'Elephant Dairies'.

We spent time with Lek Chailert, a passionate and driven Thai woman, who has dedicated her life to creating a haven of peace and love for over 55 of these amazing creatures

No riding is allowed and international volunteers, from day-trippers to long-term residents take care of the park's large inhabitances, from cutting tons of fresh fruit to bath time in the river.

This is a life far removed from where and whom they were rescued.

The filming took a dark turn as we investigated the abuse and neglect of these Elephants of North of Thailand.

Undercover filming of the 'Happy Elephant Circus Camps' produced shocking and heartbreaking footage. These magnificent and majestic animals, after severe mental and physical torture become so broken that they are under complete control of the mahouts and their sharpened hooks.

These beaten, defeated giants are made to give rides and paint pictures of flowerpots, which are then bought by the tourists in the circus shop.

This truly moving experience made us, as film makers, determined to get across this wonderful message of stewardship, devoted care and genuine respect for one of our Planet's awe-inspiring creatures.  

www.elephantnaturepark.org