A contemporary of researchers Jane Goodall and Dian Fossey – Iain Douglas-Hamilton is regarded by many as the pioneer of behavioural field-based African elephant research. In fact, much of what we now know about elephant society and movements stems from his pioneering research in Tanzania in the 1960s. Douglas-Hamilton then swapped research for conservation when he led a passionate crusade against the ivory trade in the 70s and 80s and went on to set up global charity SAVE THE ELEPHANTS in the 1990s.

With exceptional access, newly discovered archive and emotional and passionate interviewees, the film follows Iain as he re-visits his action-packed life. It also features contributions from Jane Goodall herself and Iain’s daughter, TV presenter Saba Douglas-Hamilton.

 

A Life Among Elephants

2024 GB 90 min
Festival Year: 2025
Types: Documentary, Feature
Topic: Conservation, Wildlife