Jane Synopsis & Review: Plot Summary

🎯 Quick Overview

😅 Plot Summary – Badly Explained

A woman goes to Africa to hang out with chimps and somehow gets famous for it.

🍿 Jane: Detailed Plot Synopsis

Early Explorations and Research

The film begins with Jane Goodall’s arrival in Gombe Stream National Park, Tanzania in 1960. It highlights her initial struggles to gain the trust of the chimpanzees and her groundbreaking observations of their behavior, including the discovery of their tool use. This challenged existing scientific beliefs and established her as a prominent figure in primatology.

Groundbreaking Discoveries

Goodall’s unconventional methods, such as giving the chimpanzees names instead of numbers, were initially met with skepticism from the scientific community. However, her detailed observations and persistent dedication led to significant discoveries about chimpanzee social structures, family dynamics, and their capacity for complex emotions.

Relationship with Hugo van Lawick

The film portrays Jane’s relationship with National Geographic photographer Hugo van Lawick, who documented her research. Their professional collaboration evolved into a personal relationship, leading to marriage and the birth of their son, Grub. The documentary explores the challenges of balancing their personal lives with their demanding careers in the African wilderness.

Challenges and Setbacks

The documentary doesn’t shy away from the difficulties faced by Goodall and her team, including outbreaks of polio among the chimpanzee population and violent conflicts between different chimpanzee groups. These events highlight the fragility of the ecosystem and the complex social dynamics within the chimpanzee community.

⚠️ Spoilers and Ending Explained

🎬 Cast & Characters

• Jane Goodall (Jane Goodall): A primatologist and anthropologist who revolutionized the understanding of chimpanzees through her groundbreaking research in Tanzania.
• Hugo Van Lawick (Hugo Van Lawick): A wildlife photographer and filmmaker who documented Jane Goodall’s research and later became her husband.

💬 Memorable Quotes

• Jane Goodall: “It was probably mostly frustrating because they kept running away.” – Reflecting on the challenges of initially observing the chimpanzees and establishing her study.
• Jane Goodall: “The more I learned the more I realized how much like us they were.” – Acknowledging the startling similarities between chimpanzee and human behavior.

💰Box Office

• Budget: N/A
• Domestic Gross: $1,723,379
• Worldwide Gross: $1,921,221

💥 Jane Reviews

Personal Review

I was completely captivated by this documentary! Seeing Jane Goodall’s dedication and passion for her work with chimpanzees was incredibly inspiring. I was particularly moved by the scenes showcasing the chimpanzees’ complex social interactions and the bond Jane developed with them. It’s a powerful reminder of our connection to the natural world, I was truly moved to tears.

• Who would enjoy:
  • “Documentary enthusiasts”
  • “Nature and wildlife lovers”
  • “Those interested in science and conservation”
  • “Fans of Jane Goodall”
• Content warnings ⚠:
  • “Animal conflict”
  • “Scenes of animal illness and death”
  • “Brief discussion of human conflict”

Professional Reviews

• IMDb: “A must-see for those interested in Jane Goodall’s fascinating life! The footage is spectacular on the big screen, and the musical score is incredible. Be warned, some of this is quite disturbing and intense, as life and death in the jungle can trouble some younger or sensitive viewers. A sense of awe and admiration at Jane’s determination and dedication to her work will leave you with a sense of joy.
• IMDb: “”Jane” is a pretty good documentary; indeed, among the best I have seen. Unlike many nowadays, including some other National Geographic product, it maintains a high standard in all respects. This includes its overall construction, the near-impeccable score, the absence of hysterical and breathless dialogue and commentary, and most of all, the editing and fine mixing of archival and new moving and still imagery. The story, of course, stands on its own two feet.
• IMDb: “Jane Goodall is a pioneer of primatologist. Her work was controversial at the time for many reasons. In this documentary, Jane does the narration with occasional questions from the interviewer. She goes into detail about her life and thoughts.

Audience Reactions

Jane’s unwavering dedication to her research and the chimps is truly inspiring.: Viewers praise the film for its beautiful footage and moving portrayal of Jane Goodall’s life and work.

The stunning cinematography and Philip Glass’s score create an immersive and emotional experience.: Many have said this is a moving tribute to an amazing woman and her dedication to wildlife.

Overall Consensus: A beautifully crafted and deeply moving documentary about Jane Goodall’s extraordinary life and groundbreaking research, inspiring viewers with its stunning visuals and powerful story.

Awards

1. Critics’ Choice Documentary Awards (Best Documentary)- 2017
2. National Board of Review (Top Five Documentaries)- 2017

🛠️ Behind the Scenes

• “The film utilizes over 100 hours of 16mm footage shot by Hugo van Lawick in the 1960s, which had been stored in the National Geographic archives and largely unseen for decades.”
• “Jane Goodall had no formal scientific training when she began her research; she was chosen by Louis Leakey for her observational skills and open mind.”
• “Philip Glass composed the film’s score, creating a moving and immersive soundscape that enhances the emotional impact of the visuals.”

🖥️ How to Watch Jane?

As a National Geographic documentary, “Jane” is available on Disney+. You can also find it for purchase or rental on platforms like Prime Video, Apple TV, YouTube, and Google Play Movies. Check your local listings for availability.

🎥 Similar Movies

If you enjoyed Jane, you might like these similar films:

• Virunga (2014): Documentary focusing on conservation efforts and the protection of endangered species in Africa.
• Grizzly Man (2005): Explores a person’s intense connection with wildlife and the complexities of human-animal relationships, albeit with a darker outcome.
• Gorillas in the Mist (1988): Dramatization of Dian Fossey’s work with gorillas, sharing a similar focus on primatology and conservation.

🛒 Jane Related Products

• The Jane Goodall Collection [Blu-ray]: A collector’s edition Blu-ray box set featuring Jane Goodall’s most iconic documentaries, filled with exclusive bonus content, behind-the-scenes footage, and interviews.
• Jane Goodall: A Life in Photographs: A beautiful coffee table book featuring photographs from Jane Goodall’s personal archive, capturing moments from her life and career, offering a personal and intimate look.
• Jane Goodall Institute – Official Plush Chimp: Purchase a plush chimpanzee from the Jane Goodall Institute with proceeds going to conservation efforts.
• National Geographic: Jane Goodall’s Wild Chimpanzees: Stream this National Geographic documentary and explore other content related to Jane Goodall.

🎧 Soundtrack

Jane features a captivating soundtrack that enhances the movie’s atmosphere and emotional impact. Here are some notable tracks:

• “In the Shadow of Man” – performed by Philip Glass

You can find the complete soundtrack on Amazon Music and Apple Music.

🤨 FAQ

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