Review of Project Nim (2011) by Jonathan B — 10 Apr 2012

Maybe my having a personal interest in the subject matter influenced my final judgement of this film but I would argue that several specific moments, along with the film's overall, tone were more the reason for my establishing such an intense emotional rapport.

This movie brings to light the destructive and manipulative capabilities of man. Our inherent narcissism drives this consistent need to mold the world and change our surroundings so that they then stand as artifacts of our image.

Be it through works of art or, as the film shows, the subjugation of another living species, we, as humans, seem to strive to make sure that we won't be forgotten in a hurry. 'Project Nim' explores this concept but focuses more on the moral ramifications of this indulgence, purporting itself as less a biopic on a chimpanzee and more a haunting commentary on humanity, morality and the fundamental flaws that allow a species to continually justify a undeniably-selfish existence.