NOTES FROM THE FILMMAKERS
Synopsis
Turlock chronicles the rescue of chickens from the largest animal neglect case in U.S. history.
When Northern California animal sanctuary Animal Place finds out a factory farm in nearby Turlock has closed, and more than 50,000 hens have been abandoned and left to die without food or water, a team of professionals and volunteers spring into action to save as many lives as they can.
Against considerable odds, considerable stakes, and a dramatic standoff with local authorities that leaves them powerless as they witness tremendous animal cruelty, neglect, and suffering, the heroic rescuers somehow find light in the fragile beings they are able to save.
Turlock also raises timely questions about how we view non-human animals and modern industrial egg farming, a living nightmare for hundreds of millions of hens in the U.S. alone.
Whether caged, cage-free, or free-range, these quirky, social, loving animals are denied all-natural behaviors, experience fear, and stress, and suffer from diseases. The film also introduces several chickens lucky enough to be adopted into happy homes, where their unique personalities are allowed to blossom.
About the Filmmakers
Turlock was produced by First Spark Media in association with Animal Place and directed by Keegan Kuhn. Find out more about the film at turlockrescue.org.
Critic Reviews
“All of the workers were touched deeply by what they experienced. At the end, they described the efforts they put forth to get all of the chickens adopted and interviewed some of the new caretakers of these birds. I commend filmmaker, Keegan Kuhn, for producing this touching, eye-opening story as I’m sure it will make people think twice about the eggs they consume. What’s the ultimate message? Go vegan. But, even if you aren’t going vegan right now, please watch this movie as it is an incredible story that shows how a community can come together to save individual’s lives.” – Angela, The Veracious Vegan. Turlock, the Documentary. 9 May 2014
Watch Now
Related: Sanctuary Spotlight
I strongly support the vital work that animal sanctuaries do. Sanctuary Spotlight on Your Daily Vegan was launched to tell the stories of animal sanctuaries all over the world and highlights not only the animals who live at these places but the people who run them too.
You can also find a sanctuary in the extensive Farm Animal & Wildlife Sanctuary Directory or explore ways you can help by visiting How to Help Animals.
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