The Animal Condition

The Animal Condition chronicles three and a half years of recent Australian history, when animal welfare grew from fringe issue to national focus with protests in the streets. It follows four friends who take an investigative road trip around Australia. Unafraid to ask questions they speak to all sides: industry heavyweights, federal politicians, animal welfare advocates, Indigenous Australians, immigrant factory workers, philosophers and scientists. Views on the subject change with each new encounter, leading to questions about society that go beyond the treatment of animals.

Directed by Michael Dahlstrom, The Animal Condition leans on a strong ensemble — Michael Dahlstrom, Augusta Miller, Ande Cunningham — to carry a story that balances spectacle with character.

The film landed with audiences for its craft and performances, and remains one of the most talked-about documentary titles of 2014.