Escape from Extinction Rewilding, the sequel to the award-winning Escape from Extinction introduces rewilding, a proven method for sustainable conservation that has the potential to bring back hundreds of thousands of species from the brink of extinction.
It is currently estimated that 1 million species are at risk of becoming extinct, with more than half of all species becoming extinct by 2050 — a not-so-distant future and a risk that will impact current and future generations. But rewilding has emerged as a beacon of hope, already successfully increasing populations of threatened animals and their ecosystems, worldwide.
Rewilding is a transformative conservation strategy that prioritizes the restoration of natural ecosystems by reintroducing native species — both plant and animal — particularly apex predators and keystone species. This innovative approach restores ecological balance and enhances biodiversity, while generating farther-reaching impacts, such as strengthening our local and global food systems, mitigating climate change, and offering significant socio-economic benefits to communities. Escape from Extinction Rewilding is a powerful and timely documentary that delves into this critical conservation practice.
Narrated by Academy Award winner Meryl Streep, the film follows tireless conservation efforts of leading organizations implementing rewilding practices across a diverse array of species in equally diverse environments. Through compelling storytelling and breathtaking cinematography, the documentary showcases the tangible successes and ongoing challenges in the field of rewilding. It highlights how humanity, when armed with knowledge and compassion, can halt the decline of countless animal species and restore the environments we call home.
“This documentary not only brings the importance of rewilding to the forefront but also emphasizes that you can’t protect what you don’t love, and you can’t love what you don’t know,” shared Dr. Robin Ganzert, President and CEO of American Humane and the film’s executive producer. “At American Humane, we are profoundly thankful to Meryl for lending her voice to this critical story of survival, inspiring countless others to become advocates for animal welfare.”
Escape from Extinction Rewilding is now playing in Spain after a successful United States release in over 100 theaters nationwide.
“…a must-watch for anyone concerned about the future of our planet’s wildlife.” — Curtain Raiser
“…a thought-provoking and inspiring documentary that offers a glimmer of hope in the face of a global environmental crisis.” — HeyUGuys
Help Rewild Our Planet
Thanks to the tireless efforts of leading conservationists, rewilding is already successfully increasing populations of threatened animals and their ecosystems worldwide, but — we can all help rewild our planet.
Rewild Your Home
Plant native species and opt for heirloom and open-pollinated seeds. If you can, let grass grow wild and leave your leaves. Add bird feeders and nest boxes. Turn off exterior lights and choose sustainable, ecofriendly fertilizers.
By starting small (or going big!) at home, these steps can attract and make safe havens for pollinators, like bees and butterflies, which our food systems depend on.
Rewild Your Community
Advocate for wild spaces throughout your community. Connect with local environmental groups to support community gardens and help revitalize natural areas in your neighborhoods.
Doing so will help improve the local ecosystems that allow humans and animals to thrive, and it can also strengthen your own sense of community and mental wellbeing – that’s what we call a win-win-win.
Rewild Beyond
Support rewilding efforts led by your favorite certified zoos, aquariums, parks, and reserves – the organizations that are just as committed to animal welfare as you are. Contribute to organizations like American Humane that conserve endangered species, protect animals from extinction and promote humane rewilding.
These simple actions can make a world of difference in for animals, humanity, and the environments we all rely on.