Search - Milking the Rhino (Kartemquin) on DVD

A Unique Wildlife Film About Africa and Africans That Millio

David Crumm | Canton, Michigan | 04/29/2009

(5 out of 5 stars)

"Millions of Americans have ties to Africa. Millions of us are descendants from that vast continent. AND, millions more are directly involved in programs aimed at helping Africans improve their lives. I can't think of a megachurch I've visited in the past decade that doesn't participate in an African outreach program of some kind. Add to that all the Americans working to preserve African wildlife--and a whole lot of us have a personal stake in Africa.

BUT--most American efforts to help Africans still involve well-intentioned outsiders bringing assistance to Africa--much of it terrific stuff! Don't stop helping people! But--consider this: What happens when the Africans themselves begin to develop their own strategies for healthy development? Sometimes, these noble efforts lead to clashes. Sometimes, as Westerners, we don't even think Africans are capable of making wise choices.

The eye-opening documentary, "Milking the Rhino," is a film that should be seen by millions of Americans who want to make a difference in Africa. If your church or small group is supporting African development programs--order a copy of this film right now. You need to see it.

This is a gorgeous documentary with lots of stunning wildlife footage. What makes it unique is this: It's also a movie that will whip your head around by showing you not just the startling wildlife we all love to watch on screen. Instead, the filmmaker "turns the camera around" and shows us the Africans living near the wildlife. The film really focuses on the abilities of Africans themselves to sort out their own healthiest approaches toward eco-friendly development.

The filmmakers take us both to the Meru region of Kenya and to Namibia, exploring the work of African men and women in developing nature conservancies to attract tourism. It's surprising to see how much peaceful, creative, eco-friendly innovation is possible when the Africans themselves begin to develop the strategies they will follow.

If you're thinking of watching this film with a small-discussion group, it's appropriate for high school through adult ages."