The documentary from Nina Jackel, Kirk Murray and Nicholas Tana plays Sunday, Oct. 25 at the Regal Sherman Oaks Galleria, followed by a Q&A with the filmmakers.
Produced by Lady Freethinker founder and president Nina Jackel and directed by Kirk Murray and Nicholas Tana, the film traces the long history of animal cruelty and the industries that still cause unnecessary suffering to billions of animals each year. It also follows the people working to break that cycle. By drawing out the deep similarities between humans and other sentient beings, “We Are Animals” asks audiences to look hard at how everyday choices feed animal suffering, while offering real hope for change.
“Animals are unable to tell the world of their suffering, but we can,” says Jackel. “This documentary was born from a deep urgency to expose the systems that allow exploitation to run rampant and to encourage a more compassionate world for our fellow species.” Jackel has also been a major force in pushing Meta to police abusive animal content on its platforms.
The film features interviews with scientists, celebrities and leading animal advocates, including Moby, Nikki Glaser, Alison Pill, Peter Egan, Elaine Hendrix, Peter Singer and Milo Runkle. Among its most moving stories is that of Renee King-Sonnen, founder of Rowdy Girl Sanctuary. A calf named Rowdy Girl changed how she saw animals, and she and her husband, Tommy, went vegan and turned their Texas cattle ranch into a sanctuary.
The documentary also spotlights Apex Advocacy, the LA Vegan Food Bank, Animal Equality and BIPOC Animal Activism. Their leaders explain the distinct roles each plays in protecting animals, pushing legislative reform and challenging systemic exploitation.
Lady Freethinker works to end animal cruelty worldwide through investigations, news reporting and citizen action. The nonprofit also provides food, veterinary care and shelter to rescued animals in urgent need. Director Kirk Murray believes emotion can be a catalyst for change, and his work has screened at more than 40 festivals, including the Orlando Film Festival, Las Vegas Film Festival and San Diego International Film Awards.
Now in its 22nd year and newly based in Sherman Oaks, the LA Femme International Film Festival champions women filmmakers, writers, producers and creative professionals across independent and commercial entertainment. The 2026 festival runs Oct. 22 to 25.
Screening Information
“We Are Animals” Sunday, Oct. 25, 2026, at noon Regal Sherman Oaks Galleria, 15301 Ventura Blvd., Sherman Oaks, CA 91403 Tickets are $18 and available in advance at LA Femme International Film Festival USA 2026.
La Femme International Film Festival USA 2026
