Nature
The issue of reintroducing various animal species into their natural habitats to prevent their extinction and protect biodiversity often transcends the strictly scientific aspect, opening a broader and more controversial debate on the coexistence between humans and wild animals. Today, large predators polarize public attention, evoking both wonder and horror. Some are fascinated by the social life of wolf packs, the elegance of the lynx, or the strength of the bear, while others are terrified at the thought of encountering them or, worse still, being victims of their attacks. Many of the attitudes we've developed towards these animals are undoubtedly emotional; on the other hand, we may need to question the effectiveness of the information regarding the factors that have determined reintroduction, its appropriateness, and the resulting benefits for the balance of ecosystems. All fundamental elements for hoping for real coexistence between humans and predators, who, in most cases, are extremely shy and avoid humans, their worst enemy for millennia.
Cinema has always explored the complexity of this theme, demonstrating its ambivalence: on one side, the rigorous and respectful observation of the behaviors of these mammals, and on the other, the need to grasp those very difficulties and unresolved contradictions in the encounter with the human species. Drawing inspiration from this latter aspect, addressed with extreme precision in the two documentaries presented in this section of the Festival, the panel aims to be an opportunity for in-depth discussion and comparison, a contribution towards greater awareness regarding a key issue in the conservation of all species.
Speakers include
Luca Rossi, full professor at the Department of Veterinary Sciences of the University of Turin
Samer Angeloni, director and biologist, founder of the Swiss Science Film Academy
Elisa Ramassa, supervisory officer, Management Authority of the Protected Areas of the Cottian Alps
