"A FALL FROM FREEDOM" PUBLIC FILM SCREENING

The 2009 Oscar winning film, The Cove, shocked the world by exposing the brutal slaughter of dolphins in Taiji, Japan. Unfortunately, what most people don't understand is the connection between this horrible annual slaughter and the seemingly harmless captive dolphin shows, which are enjoyed by so many people around the world. In fact, dolphins killed for meat are worth only a few hundred dollars each--not enough to make this killing economically viable. A live dolphin puts tens of thousands of dollars into the pockets of the dolphin killers. These dolphins then spend the rest of their lives in tiny pools or lagoons, performing cheap tricks for tourists.

The new documentary, A Fall From Freedom, brings into sharp focus the relationship between the captive dolphin industry and the brutality of Taiji. It challenges us all to question the ethics of our entertainment. And it offers a solution to the dolphin trade: "Don't go to the dolphin show."

PUBLIC SCREENING IN DALLAS, TX

My name is Brian Lochlaer. When I first saw A Fall From Freedom, I was moved by the power of its message. I knew that if people saw this film, many of them would have the same reaction and would stop patronizing marine parks and swim-with-dolphins attractions. But, although the film is well-known among activists, I needed to find a way to get it in front of the eyes of a different audience. 

So I'm renting an actual movie theater in my home city, Dallas, TX. 

I have a contract for the historic Lakewood Theater on 28 March, 2013. It is well known as a multi-purpose venue in this area and seats about 700 people. The potential for increasing awareness of this issue in my community is tremendous, especially considering our timing. In the spring, many people are planning their family summer vacations. It is my hope that people who see this film will choose NOT to patronize swim-with-dolphin attractions and dolphin and whale prisons like SeaWorld, and that those people will also influence their friends and families to do the same.

OUR V.I.P. GUEST SPEAKER: Dr. Naomi Rose

We are extremely fortunate that Dr. Naomi Rose will be joining us to answer questions from the audience after the film.  Dr. Rose is the senior marine mammal scientist for Humane Society International.  She is an expert on numerous marine mammal issues, including whaling, marine ecotourism, and whale and dolphin captivity. Dr. Rose is also an extremely powerful speaker and her presence will attract a lot of attention to the event.

OUR BENEFICIARY: Ric O'Barry's Dolphin Project

Formerly the dolphin trainer for the TV show, Flipper, Ric O'Barry now travels around the world, advocating for the release of captive dolphins. The Dolphin Project is a campaign of Earth Island Institute, a non-profit organization dedicated to environmental conservation and wildlife issues. 

Ticket sales for our film screening will benefit Earth Island and the Dolphin Project's work on behalf of dolphins worldwide.

WE NEED YOUR HELP

Much of the work has already been done, but our main obstacle remains: Money. Including venue rental, technical assistance, and of course, the fees charged by GoGetFunding and Paypal, we need $1600 to make this happen.  If we don't meet our fundraising goal in time for the event, we will have to use ticket sales to make up the difference.  That would reduce the amount we will be able to donate to Earth Island Institute.  If we exceed our goal (YAY!), or if our expenses are reduced, the excess will be applied to future projects. 

FUTURE PROJECTS: Friends of George and Gracie

This film screening is just the beginning. There are many wonderful films about marine conservation issues. In 2012, I founded the Friends of George and Gracie as a way to attract new attention to the plight of the ocean and the creatures who inhabit it, with a particular focus on marine mammals. Film screenings like this will be a major part of our work.  In 2013, we intend to file for 501(c)(3) status, which will make our efforts much more effective. 

WHAT'S IN IT FOR YOU? 

 We are deeply grateful for donations in any amount. 

• For a donation of any amount, you will receive the satisfaction of knowing that you did your part to help end the captivity and needless suffering of dolphins.
• For every donation of at least $10, we will also send you a lovely origami dolphin made by Yours, Truly.
• For donations of at least $60, you'll also get a free ticket to the screening in our reserved VIP section! (If you are unable to attend, your reservation can be transferred to a friend.)
• Our most generous donors, who give at least $100 will get two free tickets to the screening in our VIP section! (Again, we'd love to see you, but if you can't make it, we'll give the tickets to anyone you name.)

On behalf of the dolphins, thank you for your support!