This was a very nice documentary about a very strange family. Now I don't mean this in an insulting manner and I assume after watching this film that the Rosaire family themselves would agree that they are, indeed, strange people! The film is about a family who has been involved with animal acts and circuses for 8-9 generations! These folks don't just train animals--they love them and treat them like family. And, you could see that they genuinely loved them and vice-versa (I loved seeing the bears hugging and licking them as well as the way the chimps became like members of the family). I also liked this because I always felt uncomfortable seeing a few of the circus animal acts over the years--where the animals seemed listless and unhappy. This was not true with the Rosaire animals! I especially liked seeing the one chimp at a cookout with the family--and the chimp was doing the cooking! Wild! And, because the animals are so well treated, the segment where the act was being protested against by PETA actually made these do-gooders look a bit foolish--especially as one seemed to say that killing the animals humanely was better than letting the Rosaires care for them and show them! Incredible! I should warn you that although this was a VERY compelling film, it is also a bit sad. And, believe it or not, you might find yourself shedding a tear or two. Just see the movie and you'll see what I mean. Well made, interesting and a nice look into a bizarre yet amazing world.
For me personally, this was a VERY exciting documentary to watch, as the folks in this film live very close to me--some as close as 10 minutes. I knew I lived around a lot of retired and semi-retired circus folks, but this was a rare and very enjoyable chance to look into their lives. It turns out that the Rosaire family has an animal sanctuary only about 10 minutes from my house--and they put on shows regularly. I sure know where I'm going next time I have a free day!
