This week, Disneynature announced a new partnership that will allow audience members to give back to and support the animals they observe onscreen. To celebrate the release of Disneynature’s newest film, Chimpanzee, this April, Disney has joined forces with the Jane Goodall Institute for the “See Chimpanzee, Save Chimpanzees” program. For the film’s opening week in theaters (April 20-26, 2012), Disney will make a donation to the Jane Goodall Institute for every moviegoer who attends a screening of the film. The donations, which will be made through the Disney Worldwide Conservation Fund, will help to protect chimpanzees and the habitats they live in, both now and in the future.
Chimpanzee, directed by Alastair Fothergill and Mark Linfield, tells the story of the adorable young chimp Oscar and his family. Taking place deep in the forests of Africa, this heartwarming tale features extraordinary, never-before-seen footage that is sure to captivate audiences.
“We are very excited to bring the story of Oscar and his chimpanzee family to the big screen. CHIMPANZEE showcases the incredible personalities and heartwarming relationships of these amazing animals,” said Alan Bergman, president, The Walt Disney Studios. “As part of our company’s ongoing efforts to protect the environment and empower audiences to participate in global conservation, Disneynature is proud to join with the Jane Goodall Institute in its efforts to secure a future for chimpanzees in the Republic of Congo.”
“The Jane Goodall Institute is proud to work so closely with Disneynature on the release ofCHIMPANZEE,” said Dr. Jane Goodall, DBE, founder of the Jane Goodall Institute and UN Messenger of Peace. “JGI has been working in Africa for almost 35 years following on from my research begun in 1960. We are thrilled to extend our impact and efforts through this collaboration to support and celebrate such a wonderful film. Together, we can truly make a difference and are thrilled to have Disneynature join our efforts to protect chimpanzee habitats, care for orphaned chimpanzees in the Republic of Congo and educate a new generation of young people and connect them to nature.”
Chimpanzee will make its North American theatrical debut this Earth Day, April 20, 2012. To learn more about the film and the “See Chimpanzee, Save Chimpanzees” initiative, visit Disney.com/chimpanzee.
