Common Sense Media Review
By Jeffrey Anderson
,
based on child development research. How do we rate?
Disturbing but valuable docu on elephant poaching.
Parents Need to Know
Why Age 16+?
Any Positive Content?
Where to Watch
Videos and Photos
Wild Daze
Parent and Kid Reviews
What's the Story?
In WILD DAZE, documentary filmmaker Phyllis Stuart takes a look at the profitable but powerful and wildly corrupt industry of poaching elephants for their valuable tusks. Viewers learn that, because of their ability to transport seeds a great distance, elephants are essential for the continued growth of forests. The movie explores the volatile relationship between humans and animals, interviewing both activists and hunters, and concludes that we must stop the killing and live harmoniously or face negative consequences.
Is It Any Good?
This documentary about elephant poaching and its long-reaching effects is pretty rough, both in terms of its production quality and its highly disturbing content, but its message is strong and clear. Wild Daze doesn't hesitate to include some of the most shocking, horrific footage you're likely to have ever seen in a nature documentary -- which makes a clear point, even if it will deter many (especially young kids) from ever watching it. Additionally, despite having the clout to interview the legendary Dr. Jane Goodall and hiring Keith David to narrate, the movie is pretty slapdash. The audio quality varies wildly, as does the lighting, and as a result, it feels rushed or unfinished. But the movie's message is undeniable. Director Stuart asks tough questions and paints a picture of a massive, illegal industry that's powerful enough and has enough money to resist punishment, let alone face oblivion. Wild Daze shows that conservationists and activists face a long, uphill battle, but the realization that "we can't control nature; we are part of nature" wins out in the end.
Talk to Your Kids About ...
Families can talk about Wild Daze's violence. How does it compare to what you'd see in a less-realistic action movie? Which has bigger impact on you?
Why do people hunt? How do you think people can be stopped from hunting elephants?
Does the movie include any notable role models? Does it encourage you to do any further research on people like Dr. Jane Goodall?
Is the movie pessimistic? Optimistic? Both? Why do you think so?
Does the movie provide any information for viewers who may be interested in helping with the problem?
Movie Details
- In theaters : September 18, 2020
- On DVD or streaming : October 1, 2020
- Cast : Keith David , Jane Goodall , Gretchen Peters
- Director : Phyllis Stuart
- Studio : Cinedigm
- Genre : Documentary
- Topics : Activism , STEM , Animals ( Wild Animals )
- Run time : 100 minutes
- MPAA rating :
- Last updated : September 18, 2025
Did we miss something on diversity?
Research shows a connection between kids' healthy self-esteem and positive portrayals in media. That's why we've added a new "Diverse Representations" section to our reviews that will be rolling out on an ongoing basis. You can help us help kids by
Suggest an Update
Common Sense Media's unbiased ratings are created by expert reviewers and aren't influenced by the product's creators or by any of our funders, affiliates, or partners.
See how we rate