On September 28, 2025, In Defense of Animals was deeply honored to present the U.S. premiere of Lucy, the Stolen Lives of Elephants in Los Angeles. This powerful new documentary by award-winning filmmaker Fern Levitt lifts the veil on the heartbreaking truth behind the zoo industry’s treatment of elephants, and the devastating consequences of captivity.

In a packed theater, the audience watched in rapt attention as the movie exposed the stark contrast between the stories zoos tell and the reality elephants endure. The film focuses on Lucy, who has spent 48 years confined at the Edmonton Valley Zoo in the freezing climate of northern Canada. For more than a decade, she has lived in isolation, a profoundly social being who has been left utterly alone.

The film delivers a powerful emotional journey, blending grief and outrage with moments of hope. It ends with a visit to EcoParque in Argentina, a former zoo that has transformed itself into a haven of compassion and innovation. By recently sending its last elephant to a sanctuary in Brazil, EcoParque demonstrates that change is not only possible, it’s happening right now.

After the screening, filmmaker Fern Levitt joined Lisa Levinson from In Defense of Animals and Courtney Fern from the Nonhuman Rights Project for a heartfelt discussion and audience Q&A. Many viewers expressed deep shock and sorrow, but also determination to help end the suffering of elephants in captivity.

We believe that Lucy, the Stolen Lives of Elephants has the power to awaken hearts and open minds to the painful truth of life behind zoo walls. Already, 40 zoos have closed their elephant exhibits, choosing compassion over cruelty. With growing awareness and public support, we are confident that many more will follow, illuminating the way for a kinder, brighter future for elephants everywhere.

Take Action for Lucy

Please take a moment to urge the Edmonton Valley Zoo to release Lucy to a sanctuary where she can finally live out her days in peace.

Together, we can end the suffering of captive elephants, including that of Billy and Tina, who were secretly shipped to the Tulsa Zoo, and we can create a future rooted in compassion, not captivity.