Monument for a Gorilla Poster

Monument for a Gorilla 1987

53 min📅 1987-01-01

Dutch filmmaker Bert Haanstra's *Monument for a Gorilla* (1987) is a fascinating documentary that explores the creation of an extraordinary gorilla habitat at Burgers Zoo.

Director: Bert Haanstra

Cast

Bert Haanstra
Bert Haanstra
Voice-over

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Monument for a Gorilla (1987) about?

*Monument for a Gorilla* takes viewers behind the scenes as Burgers Zoo in the Netherlands unveils a groundbreaking new habitat for gorillas. The film also travels to Cameroon, the gorillas' native country, to explore their natural habitat and the cultural significance of these majestic primates. It's a blend of conservation, architecture, and natural beauty.

Who directed Monument for a Gorilla?

The film was directed by Bert Haanstra, a renowned Dutch filmmaker celebrated for his documentaries that often focus on nature, wildlife, and human innovation.

Who stars in Monument for a Gorilla?

The documentary features wildlife footage and interviews with experts, though the primary 'star' is the gorilla habitat itself, designed to mimic their natural environment.

Is Monument for a Gorilla (1987) worth watching?

While *Monument for a Gorilla* isn't a high-energy thriller, its charm lies in its quiet, thoughtful exploration of wildlife conservation and architectural ingenuity. As a documentary, it's a solid pick for nature enthusiasts, offering a glimpse into the world of gorillas both in captivity and the wild. Its brevity and focus make it a quick but rewarding watch.

How long is Monument for a Gorilla?

The documentary runs for 53 minutes.

About Monument for a Gorilla (1987) — How a Dutch Zoo Celebrated Gorillas Through Film

Dutch filmmaker Bert Haanstra's *Monument for a Gorilla* (1987) is a fascinating documentary that explores the creation of an extraordinary gorilla habitat at Burgers Zoo. The film doesn't just showcase the innovative design and construction of this space; it also takes viewers on a journey to Cameroon, the gorillas' African homeland, to witness their natural environment and the cultural connections between wildlife and local communities. Haanstra's lens captures both the awe-inspiring scale of the zoo's new enclosure and the raw beauty of the mountain forests where gorillas roam freely.

The documentary blends careful observation with a sense of wonder, offering audiences a dual perspective: the modern marvels of zoo architecture and the stark, untamed landscapes that define gorilla life. With a runtime of just 53 minutes, *Monument for a Gorilla* is a tight, visually rich experience that appeals to nature lovers and documentary enthusiasts alike. It's a celebration of wildlife conservation, human ingenuity, and the enduring bond between species.