This award-winning story explores the global movement to end marine mammal captivity through the lens of former Marineland animal trainer, Phil Demers, now trying to free his beloved walrus, Smooshi, from the iconic amusement park.

With the industry of zoos and aquariums under fire in much of the world, Phil’s story contrasts with the plea of scientists who tell us their research on the effects of climate change depends on having access to captive animals. Ensuring our planet’s biodiversity and the survival of species - in their view - means sacrificing the liberty of some.

Compelling footage of walruses in captivity, and in the wild, and rare archival images taken behind-the-scenes at Marineland form the visual backdrop of this stranger-than-fiction tale that asks one of the central questions of our time: how far are we willing to go to hold onto what we love?