Manimals (1978)

A highly unusual look into the world of exotic pets and their owners in a large city. It is a film of love, comedy, ego and tragedy. The film begins on a humorous note, as the viewer is swept along, enjoying the fun of seeing and listening to people who keep monkeys, ocelots, lion cubs, possums, tarantulas, and every kind of exotic pet imaginable. Along with the careful, concerned people we meet, we also see some who are not quite so responsible. We witness the effects of some of the owners' neglect and lack of sensitivity to the needs of these animals from the wild. Some owners also describe their pets as exhibiting almost human traits, but is it good for animals to lose their own traits and characteristics, and acquire those of human beings?

Robin LehmanDirector