Welcome To The Animalis Fabula Film Festival #AniFab24

To the Visionaries, Story Weavers, Kindred Spirits of AniFab24,

O, what a glorious tapestry unfolds before us!  The world, a canvas painted with the vibrant hues of autumn, whispers tales of change, of letting go, of embracing the cycle of life and death. And here, in this vibrant city of San Antonio, we gather not just to witness the turning of the leaves, but to celebrate the stories that connect us all – the stories of animals, the stories of humans, the stories that weave the very fabric of existence.

For within the animal kingdom, a mirror reflects our own humanity. Tom McPhee, the heart and soul of this festival, sees in their eyes the echoes of our ancestors, the whispers of our evolution. He believes that by understanding their journeys, we unlock hidden truths about ourselves, our past, and the boundless potential that lies dormant within us.

And so, we gather for AniFab24, a symphony of film and compassion, a celebration of human / animal existence that transcends language and culture. From the depths of the ocean to the heart of the Texas ranchlands, from the bustling streets of San Antonio to the far corners of the globe, these stories will transport us, challenge us, and inspire us to build a more compassionate world.

On this Thanksgiving weekend, as we gather with loved ones and give thanks for the blessings in our lives, let us also extend our gratitude to the creatures who share this planet with us. Let us celebrate their resilience, their wisdom, and their unwavering spirit.

Imagine yourselves immersed in the heartwarming tale of "Dolphin Summer," where a young woman, Kyliegh Nikkels, a daughter of San Antonio, discovers her passion for marine conservation amidst the turquoise waters of the Bahamas. Feel the pulse of her journey as she forms an unbreakable bond with a rescued dolphin, a testament to the healing power of connection.

Then, journey with us to the hallowed halls of Oxford University, where "The Animal Thing" unravels the life of Dr. Andrew Linzey, a pioneer of animal rights, a voice for the voiceless. Through the lens of his filmmaker son, Adam Linzey, we witness the struggles and triumphs of a man who dared to challenge the status quo, a man who dedicated his life to advocating for those who cannot speak for themselves.

And as the sun sets on Friday evening, let us gather in solidarity with Captain Paul Watson, the "Whale Warrior" who has dedicated his life to protecting the giants of the ocean. "Watson," a powerful documentary by Lesley Chilcott, will plunge us into the depths of his controversial activism, forcing us to confront our own beliefs about environmentalism and the lengths we are willing to go to defend the planet.

On Saturday morning, join Adam and Clair Linzey, siblings united by a shared passion for animal welfare, as they lead a workshop on animal ethics in the media. Let their insights guide us as we navigate the complex landscape of storytelling, ensuring that our narratives reflect the respect and compassion that all living beings deserve.

And let us not forget the whimsical world of "PotenDogs," Tom McPhee's own creation, an English adaptation of a Korean animated series that will delight audiences of all ages. Through the adventures of these extraordinary pups, we'll rediscover the joy of laughter, the power of friendship, and the importance of embracing our unique talents.

From the heart of Texas, "Beyond the Herd" will transport us to the ranches, where Michelle Fenn's lens captures the essence of Mexican-American equestrian culture. We'll witness the deep-rooted connection between humans, horses, and the land, a testament to the enduring spirit of tradition and the power of intergenerational bonds.

These are but a few of the cinematic treasures that await us at AniFab24. Filmmakers from across the globe, from Tunisia to the United Arab Emirates, from the United Kingdom to our own backyard, will converge in San Antonio, bringing with them a tapestry of stories as diverse and vibrant as the world itself.

As we immerse ourselves in these films, let us remember that we are all interconnected, all part of the same intricate web of life. Let us celebrate the diversity of the animal kingdom, from the smallest creature to the largest, and recognize the vital role they play in maintaining the delicate balance of our planet.

Let us be inspired by the filmmakers who have dedicated their talents to capturing these stories, who have braved challenges and overcome obstacles to bring these films to life. Their work is a testament to the power of storytelling, a reminder that film can be a catalyst for change, a beacon of hope in a world that often feels dark and uncertain.

#AniFab24 is more than just a film festival; it's a celebration of our shared humanity, a reminder that we are all part of something larger than ourselves. It's an invitation to open our hearts and minds to the wonders of the animal world, to learn from their resilience, their adaptability, and their unwavering spirit.

So, let us gather this Thanksgiving weekend, not just to feast and give thanks for our own blessings, but to honor the animals who enrich our lives in countless ways. Let us be inspired by their stories, moved by their struggles, and motivated to create a world where humans and animals can coexist in harmony.

Let the films of AniFab24 be a beacon, guiding us towards a future where compassion, empathy, and understanding prevail. Let us leave this festival with a renewed sense of purpose, a deeper connection to the natural world, and a commitment to protecting the creatures who share this planet with us.

Welcome to AniFab24, San Antonio's Animalis Fabula Film Festival, where animal stories come to life!

​AniFab, the Animalis Fabula Film Festival is a service project of the World Animal Wareness Society