Watch JANE

JANE is a 2017 documentary film directed by Brett Morgen that tells the life story of Jane Goodall, one of the world's most renowned scientists and a pioneer in the study of chimpanzees. The film features never-before-seen footage discovered in the National Geographic archives that chronicles Goodall's early years in Tanzania and her groundbreaking research on chimpanzees.

The film begins by introducing Goodall as a young woman in England who, despite having no formal training, is invited by famed anthropologist Louis Leakey to study chimpanzees in the wild. Goodall jumps at the opportunity and travels to Gombe Stream National Park in Tanzania, where she spends decades studying the behavior of the chimpanzees and revolutionizing our understanding of these primates.

Throughout the film, we see glimpses into the daily life of Goodall and her beloved chimpanzees, including moments of joy, strife, and everything in between. From watching the chimpanzees engage in social behaviors like grooming and play to witnessing their aggression and violent tendencies, Goodall's research sheds light on the complexity and depth of these creatures' lives.

In addition to showcasing Goodall's research, the film also delves into her personal life, including her relationship with famed wildlife cinematographer Hugo van Lawick. The two fall in love during Goodall's early years in Tanzania and eventually marry, giving birth to a son whom they raise in the African wilderness.

The film is also notable for its stunning visuals, as the archival footage captures both the natural beauty of the African landscape and the intimate interactions between Goodall and her chimpanzees. The footage is further enhanced by a haunting score from composer Philip Glass, which perfectly captures the emotional gravity of Goodall's story.

Throughout the film, we witness Goodall's transformation from a young woman with a passion for animals to an internationally recognized scientist and humanitarian. Her tireless advocacy for animal rights and conservation is inspiring, as is her unwavering commitment to understanding and protecting the natural world.

In many ways, JANE is a love letter to Goodall and the groundbreaking work she has done throughout her life. It is a testament to the power of the human spirit, as well as a reminder of the urgency of preserving our planet and the creatures that inhabit it. Anyone with an interest in wildlife, science, or the human experience will find something to love in this incredible film.

JANE is a 1970 documentary with a runtime of 1 hour and 30 minutes. It has received mostly positive reviews from critics and viewers, who have given it an IMDb score of 7.8 and a MetaScore of 87.