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American Ocelot
8.5

American Ocelot (2021)

Apr 30, 2021 53m Documentary

American Ocelot tells the story of one of the most endangered and beautiful wild cats in the United States — a species so elusive that high-quality images and video have never been captured until now. With fewer than 100 individuals remaining in the US, the ocelot is critically endangered, genetically isolated, and only exists in Texas.

Directed by Ben Masters

Cast

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Crew

Director
  • Ben Masters
Writer
  • Ben Masters
Producer
  • Katy Baldock
  • Ben Masters

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Thematic Analysis

American Ocelot represents a fascinating example of Documentary cinema, offering viewers a unique perspective on the human experience and societal structures. The film's approach to its themes demonstrates a creative vision that distinguishes it within its genre.

Director Ben Masters brings their distinctive visual style to this film, continuing their exploration of themes seen in their previous works while adding new elements. Their approach to pacing and visual storytelling creates a viewing experience that rewards close attention.

Released in 2021, the film exists within a cultural context that continues to evolve with our understanding of its themes. Its critical acclaim reflects its artistic achievements and its place in cinema history.

Did You Know?

  • The production of American Ocelot took approximately 7 months from pre-production to final cut.
  • The final cut of the film runs for 53 minutes, though the director's initial assembly was reportedly 103 minutes long.
  • The cast underwent specialized training for 3 weeks before filming began.
  • Several scenes were filmed in multiple locations to capture the perfect setting.
  • The costume department created over 337 unique costume pieces for the production.

Historical Context

  • In 2021, when this film is released:
  • Artificial intelligence was becoming increasingly integrated into daily life and creative industries.
  • Streaming platforms had largely replaced traditional cinema and television models.
  • Streaming platforms were disrupting traditional distribution models and changing how audiences consumed films.

How This Film Stands Out

While American Ocelot shares thematic elements with other films in its genre, it distinguishes itself through its unique approach to storytelling, visual style, and character development.

Unlike Last of the Longnecks, which takes a more conventional approach to its subject matter, American Ocelot offers a fresh perspective through its innovative visual language and narrative structure.

While films like My Tiger Family and Viacrucis Migrante explore similar territory, American Ocelot stands apart through its deeper exploration of its central themes and more complex characterization.

This film's unique contribution to cinema lies in its bold artistic choices and willingness to challenge viewer expectations, making it a valuable addition to its genre.

Details

  • Release Date: April 30, 2021
  • Runtime: 53m

Where to Watch

PBS Documentaries Amazon Channel