The HBO Documentary I am an Animal: The Story of Ingrid Newkirk and PETA is a candid and introspective look at the beliefs and motives of Ingrid Newkirk, the founder and leader of People for the Ethical Treatment of Animal... more »s. Told through interviews with Newkirk, PETA employees, and PETA supporters and critics alike, viewers glimpse into the inner-workings of this controversial animal rights group. The film follows the planning and execution of undercover projects and surprise operations, and examines past controversies.« less
The first 10 or so minutes were interesting and then this documentary went boring (could have been done in 30 minutes or less) and off the deep end. Saving animals and then euthanizing them seems hypocritical. There most definitely needs to be a humane balance and treatment of how animals are treated and how companies or individuals process them as a world food source since not all of us want to be vegetarians or strict vegans. Be warned that the Holocaust photos are very disturbing and I wish I would not had seen some of them.
Sharon F. (Shar) from AVON PARK, FL Reviewed on 11/3/2021...
While I enjoyed the documentary, I can't say I fully support PETA. An in-depth look at how PETA got started and why it is necessary. God bless them, but I could never go that far.
3 of 4 member(s) found this review helpful.
Movie Reviews
An interesting glimpse into what PETA really stands for
Sarah C. Leimert | Portland, OR | 01/07/2008
(5 out of 5 stars)
"A thought-provoking look into what makes animal rights activists tick. While I probably won't rush out to join all of their campaigns, I now have a much greater appreciation for the work PETA does. I didn't know, for instance, that PETA makes weekly trips to bring chained dogs food, fresh water, medications, and doghouses to provide some measure of comfort against the elements.
The segment in which a young activist shares his reasons for working undercover in a turkey slaughterhouse is especially fascinating. I was amazed that someone could be so committed to his ethics, and I found myself starting to admire the determination and level-headedness of people I had previously written off as "extremists."
This documentary is fair and unbiased, with commentary from both PETA supporters and PETA opponents. In the end, it isn't as much about PETA or Ingrid Newkirk, as it is about animals--and how each of our actions affects them. I highly recommend this film to everyone, regardless of where they stand on animal rights.
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Must-See!!
Super Spy | Michigan, USA | 01/08/2008
(5 out of 5 stars)
"After much begging from my animal activist friend, I reluctantly agreed to watch this film, certain that my belief that PETA people all had a screw or two loose would remain unchanged.
But I had no idea how animals are abused to produce things we take for granted every day, like the hamburger I ate for lunch, or the soap I wash my clothes in. The undercover video footage from slaughterhouses, fur farms, and laboratories was so gut-wrenching, I had to turn away at some points. It made me ask myself, if I can't even watch what happens to animals in these industries, how can I continue supporting them with a clear conscience?
I Am an Animal really got to me. It's a must see for anyone who likes a thought provoking film. Even though I didn't go completely vegan overnight, it definitely made me think."
Surprising
M. Holmberg | 01/12/2008
(5 out of 5 stars)
"Thought you knew everything there was to know about PETA, the animal rights movement, and how animals are really treated before they're turned into a burger or a belt? Think again. You need to see this documentary.
Before I go any further, let me tell you that I've never been a big fan of PETA. One of the main reasons I didn't support them was because I didn't agree with their shock tactics. Then I watched the movie and found out how monkeys in labs are restrained and tortured, turkeys have their legs broken by cruel, indifferent workers, and live animals were once used as crash test dummies. All of these cruel acts are way more shocking than anything PETA could ever do!
Now instead of getting annoyed by protesters, I am enraged that there even has to be protesters to fight for what should be common, human decency toward animals. That said, I highly, highly recommend this movie. Filled with interviews from supporters and detractors, this documentary is surprisingly well-balanced. Not only does it provide you with an unbiased view of how animals are treated in this world, but it will also open your eyes and make you think twice about the food that you put into your mouth, and the clothes that you put on your back."
Mixed feelings
Activist Katze | Illinois, USA | 10/24/2009
(2 out of 5 stars)
"its a very well made documentary and very educational.
i would like to say that i support PETA but i cant. i fully believe in everything that they are doing for the animals (minus the hypocritical killings) but dont like how they try to make their points. in Ingrid's eyes, "there is no bad publicity" yet there really is.
there are many people that are completely turned off by PETA's outrageous tactics and think anyone that tries to support animal rights is nuts. in fact, simply doing a peaceful protest against puppy mills draws a lot of these people to poke fun, say we're crazy and assume that we are a part of PETA, which we are not.
PETA has done some good but has also damaged the name of animal activists and advocates for eternity. we are stuck fighting even harder for the animals because of what they have done."