The situation surrounding elephant tourism in Thailand is dire. People visit tourist parks and camps to interact with the majestic animals, unaware of the effect this trade has on the elephants themselves. The Elephant Project explores the tourists desire to visit these attractions, whilst learning about the ethically focused parks, such as Kindred Spirit Elephant Sanctuary, who put the elephants first and seek to educate their guests on the problems elephant tourism causes. Their sanctuary offers a unique approach to elephant tourism in Thailand, integrating the local Karen hill tribe village they live amongst, to provide an ethically focussed experience.

Produced as a Final Year Documentary at the Northern Film School.

Meet the director: fergus hatton