Ashley Avis wrote, narrated, directed, and produced ‘Wild Beauty: Mustang Spirit of the West.’ The documentary depicted why wild horse reform must occur. On Friday, May 12, the film premiered in select theatres. Avis uncovered the truth about wild horses’ disappearances.
She embarked on a multi-year expedition to the Western United States with her crew. The journey immersed viewers in the wild horses’ worlds. The film illuminated the beauty and struggle of these animals. One horse walked through a field, surrounded by golden smoke. In another shot, a group of horses stood on a sandy beach. Behind them, the purple sky looked breathtaking.
In various shots, she and her crew walked through grassy fields with heavy cameras. They captured round-ups of the triple-B horses (Nevada, 2019). Another occurred at the Sandy Wash Basin. The documentary explained proposed preservation laws as well. “I was either editing in the front seat or running off to find the horses,” said Avis.
Prior to this film, she wrote and directed ‘Black Beauty.’ Disney+’s remake featured a wild horse and a teenage girl. Born in the Midwest, the horse went to Birtwick Stables. The girl, Jo Green, bonded with the animal and helped it through the next stage of its life. The film starred Mackenzie Foy and Kate Winslet. The reimagined feature inspired Avis’s efforts.
She created the Wild Beauty Foundation. The charity sought to protect modern wild horses. It raised awareness for scary mass-holding facilities, horse roundups, and slaughters. Also, it informed the public about the separation of equine families. The organization involved elegant messaging and advocates of all ages.
WBF conducted Ambassador Horse ‘meet and greet’ sessions. It helped to rescue horses in need. Also, it provided educational programs for children and gave out research grants. The advocacy group launched films, such as ‘Wild Beauty.’
The documentary won numerous awards. At the Boston Film Festival 2022 and the St. Louis Internation Film Festival 2022, it earned ‘Best Documentary.’ At Doc La, it won ‘Best Director’ and ‘Best Cinematography.’ Local politicians presented the filmmaker with honors as well.
Colorado Governor Jared Polis and First Gentleman Marlon Reis attended the Breckenridge Film Festival 2022 screening. Following the film’s premiere in Colorado, Governor Polis spoke about wild horse preservation.
At the 2023 Las Vegas premiere, Congresswoman Dina Titus presented Avis with a Special Congressional Commendation. The Clark County Commissioner declared March 15, 2023, as ‘Wild Beauty Day’ in Las Vegas.