On Tuesday, “Wild Life” premiered in New York to a packed crowd at the Museum of Modern Art.
The new National Geographic Documentary feature is from Oscar-winning filmmakers Chai Vasarhelyi and Jimmy Chin. The two serve as co-directors and executive producers of the film along with Bob Eisenhardt and Anna Barnes.
“Wild Life” follows conservationist Kris Tompkins’ work on creating national parks throughout Latin America after the tragic loss of her husband, entrepreneur Doug Tompkins.
The Tompkins are behind some of the greatest outdoor gear brands such as Patagonia, The North Face, and Esprit. After running such successful business empires, the Tomkins moved to Chile, and soon worked on nature preservation efforts throughout the company. “Wild Life” follows the couple’s love story and the turmoil they were subjected to by government officials in their pursuit to create national parks throughout Chile and Argentina via their Tompkins Conservation nonprofit.
The documentary will have its broadcast debut on National Geographic Channel on May 25 and streams the next day on Disney+.
The New York City premiere was held at the Museum of Modern Art. Noteworthy attendees included the creative team of “Wild Life,”subjects Kris Tompkins, Rick Ridgeway, founder of Patagonia Yvon Chouinard, U.S. Senator Cory Booker, comedian David Letterman, conservationist Freya Air Aspinallm, model Alexina Graham, and more.
Following the screening, a panel conversation was moderated by Vanity Fair Editor-in-Chief Radhika Jones. The film is a touching tribute to love, family, and the environment.
“Wild Life” is in select theaters across the U.S. on Friday, April 14.