Executive producer talks to The HSUS about his documentary about an orca named Luna
Hollywood superstar Ryan Reynolds talks exclusively to The Humane Society of the United States about his behind-the-scenes role in the poignant and thought-provoking new documentary, “The Whale“, and what its remarkable story means to him.
HSUS: As the narrator and executive producer of “The Whale,” what compelled you to take such an active role in this documentary?
Ryan Reynolds: The story was so compelling. The idea that this creature challenged so much of our presumptions about wildlife. That a whale could, would and did reach across that line to connect with us is mystifying. Scientists often debunk the idea that a mammal could experience emotions and/or feelings similar to ours. Luna did this. Luna showed it’s possible for a creature—even a whale—to crave connection. Not only needing this connection but demanding it.
HSUS: Had you any prior knowledge of Luna’s story?
RR: My brother is a Royal Canadian Mounted Policeman who works very near Nootka Sound, the harbor Luna inhabited and made so famous. I’d heard his account of the tale and read some of the headlines.
HSUS: What would you like audiences to take from “The Whale” and Luna’s story?
RR: Not to get too esoteric about it, but it reminds me that we’re all in this together. It reminds me that now more than ever we need to take care of each other—and this applies directly to wildlife, the environment and everything under our sun.
HSUS: Are there any other animal-related films or documentaries that have changed your perspective?
“Now more than ever we need to take care of each other—and this applies directly to wildlife, the environment and everything under our sun.”
RR: Throughout the years I’ve been pretty blown away by David Attenborough’s work on just about everything which moves, slithers or crawls across this planet.
HSUS: Do you share your life with any animals?
RR I have a dog named Baxter who was rescued during a road trip through Texas. Got him at a Houston animal shelter. We seem to like each other, and I feel pretty confident he’s gonna keep me.
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