1. “Blackfish” Blackfish is story of Tilikum, a bull orca kept in captivity for human entertainment, responsible for the death of three people. In this film, the director-producer compiles shocking footage and emotional interviews to explore the nature of killer whales in the wild, the species’ cruel treatment in captivity, the lives and losses of the trainers, and the pressures brought to bear by the multi-billion dollar sea-park industry. Please thoughtfully answer the following …

2. Prior to the film:
Have you ever visited a zoo, aquarium, or other such animal park? When and how did you feel at the time?
2. What are the pros and cons of animals parks?
3. Do you think animals should be kept in captivity?
Could animal captivity be considered a form of
slavery? Explain.

3. Upon completion of the film…
4. Compare and contrast killer whales kept in captivity
vs. those in nature.
5. How does the “family organization” in captivity lead
to a lot of whale aggression? How is this aggression
displayed?
6. Has your view of animals in captivity changed since
viewing “Blackfish”?

4. Blackfish Extension In groups of 3-4:
Research Sea World from the time of the video and OSHA case to present. Compile a bulleted list of your findings with citations. Include the following:
What was the impact of this video on Sea World in terms of sales, profits, turnover in leadership, etc…
Have there been any changes to policy at Sea World since the video and OSHA case?
Summarize your findings in 1-2 paragraphs.