Sentient

An investigation into laboratory research on animals exposes a hidden world in which it’s not just the animals getting hurt. The story of Dr. Lisa Jones Engel, a primatologist turned animal welfare advocate, asks whether harming animals and ourselves in science’s name is justified.

Animal testing, specifically on primates, has long been controversial. However, its supposed necessity for medical breakthroughs has made many in the medical community and general public accept it. Sentient questions this assumption with an open mind and deep research. It draws on evidence and testimony from people on the front lines of animal experimentation around the world, some of whom have been traumatized by what they’ve seen and done.

With disturbing footage from highly secretive laboratories and a rigorous approach that includes conflicting voices, a complicated portrait of the efficacy of animal testing for the betterment of humankind emerges. Director Tony Jones asks us to consider, with great empathy to animals and humans alike: While we might have a need to test on animals, do we have a right?

Tony Jones

Tony Jones is an Australian television news and political journalist, radio and television presenter and writer. Tony began working for the Australian Broadcasting Corporation (ABC) as a radio current affairs cadet working on the AM, PM and The World Today programs. In 1985, he joined the Four Corners program as a reporter. In 1986, Tony moved to SBS to present on the Dateline program before returning to the ABC in 1987, reporting for Four Corners. In 2011 he commenced as the host of the ABC's Q&A political panel discussion show continuing in that role until 2020.

Tony is one of Australia's most well known journalists, winning awards including four of Australia's leading journalism awards, the Walkleys. Crikey awarded him "Outstanding Media Practitioner of the Year" in 2005. Tony is married to esteemed ABC journalist Sarah Ferguson.

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