How I Became an Elephant

2013 • 81 minutes

About this movie

How far would you go to save a species?
When Juliette West set out on a quest to educate herself she got far more than she bargained for. How I Became an Elephant follows this wide-eyed fourteen year-old from suburban California on her quest to save the world's largest land mammals; a quest that takes her halfway across the globe and face to face with the gentle giants she aims to save.
On her journey Juliette meets Asia's famous "Elephant Lady," Lek Chailert who has risked her life and freedom for more than three decades to protect elephants from illegal trade and abuse. Together these unwavering and determined women from opposite ends of the earth and cultural spectrum converge on common ground: saving elephants. And they will stop at nothing to expose the dark secrets within industries so steeped in greed and corruption... and hopefully reverse the damage.
Part investigative journalism and all adventure, this film and it's exotic and sometimes disturbing imagery is inspiring folks around the globe to get involved. How I Became An Elephant is far more than just a film. It's one girl's story... that led to a movement, which led to a continuing plan... to save a species.
How I Became an Elephant is directed by 22-time award winning filmmakers Tim Gorski and Synthian Sharp and produced by television actor/producer Jorja Fox and fourteen year-old Juliette West. Award winning cinematographer Jonathan David Kane is behind the lens and upcoming Hollywood composer Cody Westheimer weaves a masterful music score.

Ratings and reviews

It is such a tagedy what people do to the gifts we are given. But on the other hand it is encouraging to know that there are people out there that dedicate their lives to righting the wrongs. This film is a homage to those people, it is an eye opening journey that follows a young student (Juliette) into Thailand and exposes certain truths most viewers may be shocked to see. I highly recommend this film.

Never underestimate the power of a young person and their passion to create change in the world and inspire a movement. Never underestimate the power and determination of a woman to break through cultural boundaries to protect what she loves (elephants). "How I Became an Elephant" is a moving, inspirational story and an absolute must see for everyone. One person really can make a difference and the two women in this movie prove just what one person with strength, courage, and determination can really do. I am ever in awe of the 14 year old girl that travels halfway around the world to meet with the woman that is slowly and quietly bringing change to her native country against insurmountable odds. This is a beautiful story that left me with hope that maybe, just maybe with these two women fighting for them, elephants will not be extinct in the next 10 years.

A phenomenal display of emotion and perseverance. Juliette is a driven and motivating young lady. Her passion compels viewers to act before it's too late. This is a great movie to watch with kids, since they will be the ones inheriting the world we leave behind.