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Sentient

Play trailer Sentient 2026 1h 46m Documentary Play Trailer Watchlist
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Tomatometer 8 Reviews Popcornmeter 0 Ratings
A thought-provoking exploration into the world of laboratory research on animals examined through the vulnerable confessions and complex emotions of scientific experts on both sides of the debate. Following the story of Dr. Lisa Jones Engel, a primatologist turned animal welfare advocate, it asks 'Can we still justify animal testing in the name of science?'

Critics Reviews

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Liz Shannon Miller Consequence 2d
C+
The doc's revelations don't compensate nearly well enough for the emotional trauma any animal lover will experience while watching. Go to Full Review Robert Daniels RogerEbert.com 3d
Jones’ inability to find a stable middle ground blanches the purity of his intentions, reducing his film’s potent message into an overwrought screed. Go to Full Review Therese Lacson Collider 4d
4/10
It's a difficult watch because it treats the viewer like a simpleton and silently condemns anyone who believes that we are already at a point where all animal testing can end completely. Go to Full Review Joey Magidson Awards Radar Jan 30
3/4
Sentient looks at the ethical debate on animal testing. Go to Full Review Carla Renata The Curvy Film Critic Jan 29
Director Tony Jones attempts an magnanimous feat presenting every angle swirling around the very controversial of experimental animal testing and succeeds in spades. Go to Full Review Sara Clements Next Best Picture Jan 27
7/10
The film’s real strength lies in its refusal to point fingers, instead offering a heartfelt look at the heavy emotional toll this work takes on both the animals and the people who care for them. Go to Full Review Read all reviews

Cast & Crew

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Tony Jones

Director

Tony Jones

Screenwriter

Rachel Grierson-Johns

Screenwriter

Ivan O'Mahoney

Producer

Sarah Ferguson

Executive Producer

Andy Taylor

Cinematographer
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Sentient

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Movie Info

Synopsis A thought-provoking exploration into the world of laboratory research on animals examined through the vulnerable confessions and complex emotions of scientific experts on both sides of the debate. Following the story of Dr. Lisa Jones Engel, a primatologist turned animal welfare advocate, it asks 'Can we still justify animal testing in the name of science?'
Director
Tony Jones
Producer
Ivan O'Mahoney
Screenwriter
Tony Jones, Rachel Grierson-Johns
Production Co
In Films
Genre
Documentary
Original Language
English
Runtime
1h 46m