Trade Secret

When I first heard about Trade Secret, I assumed it would be another familiar story about polar bears and climate change-just told with a new spin. This is NOT that kind of film.

Instead, it's a gripping exposé that reveals a deeper, more disturbing truth: climate change isn't the only threat to polar bears. Far more shocking is the role humans play-through the systematic killing and trading of them each year. And when the film finally exposes the groups responsible (as well as those turning an irresponsible blind eye), it delivers a plot twist I never saw coming. I was genuinely shocked.

What also makes Trade Secret truly remarkable is that this discovery wasn't planned-it unfolded organically as the cast and filmmakers were shooting. This lack of a premeditated agenda gives the documentary a rare sense of authenticity. As the cast uncovers the truth, the audience experiences the revelations right alongside them, creating a surprisingly intimate connection between viewer and subject. It's an uncommon and powerful dynamic in documentary storytelling.

I can only hope it gains worldwide distribution-the kind of reach and impact polar bear conservation urgently deserves.

Compelling and masterful storytelling that will leave you speechless and determined to see change. As the three 'hero' characters, (and they are total hero's,) are introduced, you are in absolute awe of their commitment, their fearlessness, their determination to stop the trade of the iconic polar bear. It seems an impossible to imagine that an animal that is listed a vulnerable is allowed to be traded at all. It's a very emotional experience following their separate yet intertwined journeys. Their highs and lows ooze out of the screen, and you feel every bit of it. It's authentic, it's raw. Every part of you wants to see them succeed in their mission. Then comes the BIG REVEAL and nothing can prepare you for it. It's jaw dropping and extremely unexpected. Personally, I find it even more impactful, more shocking than Blackfish, a very powerful film that sparked a moral outcry, and change happened virtually overnight. The world's wildlife needs voices, needs hero's fighting the fight. The truth needs to be revealed, people need to be held accountable, and the change needs to happen, not just for the future of the polar bear but all wildlife. You will find all of this in Trade Secret.

This is one of those films that changes the way you see the world - in particular the world of wildlife conservation where not everything is always as it seems.

One of the things that struck me was the bold storytelling by the filmmakers and activists featured in the film. Too often, conservation documentaries start strong and tail off but this one had me captivated from start to finish, and several moments had me on the edge of my seat.

The story is carried along seamlessly with beautiful cinematography and editing - so much so that you forget you're watching what is, at times, a gritty, run-and-gun documentary.

From the spectacular cinematography, deeply relatable characters and a story line that keeps you on the edge of your seat, this Doc is incredible. With a twist that rivals and Hollywood script, this film will live with you for months after watching and will drive you to tell your friends.

Directed by the industry pro, Abraham Joffe, trade secret dives into the murky world of "legal" (used loosely) trade of animals and uncovers a truth that was hiding in plain sight and will shock you to the core. A strong lesson about not believing what you initially see and always question and investigate even the most trusted of organisations.

Bravo to the whole team that created this masterpiece.

Review by Wolfgang Knöpfler Producer of the Oscar-shortlisted "The Ivory Game" and Sundance Audience Award winner "Sea of Shadows"

After watching this film, I felt something I hadn't felt in a long time: true inspiration. For years, I have pitched similar urgent and vital stories to funders, streamers, and broadcasters-often met with rejection after rejection. Two years ago, we even closed our feature documentary department, convinced that such stories had no place in today's market.

This documentary rekindled my belief that they do. It is a superbly crafted work-powerful, urgent, and deeply moving. The storytelling is razor-sharp, the cinematography both beautiful and harrowing, and its message could not be more relevant. It sheds light on a matter of global importance, and it does so with both journalistic integrity and cinematic finesse.

I sincerely hope it receives the widest possible distribution. Its impact should be felt not only by audiences but also by the institutions capable of enacting real change. If it reaches enough hearts and minds, perhaps even the WWF will reconsider its stance.

In a time when such stories often struggle to find support, this film stands as proof that they must continue to be told. It has reawakened my conviction that they can make a difference.