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Sentient (film)

Sentient is a 2026 Australian documentary film directed by Tony Jones and written by Jones and Rachel Grierson-Johns, and produced by Ivan O'Mahoney. The film premiered in the World Cinema Documentary Competition at the 2026 Sundance Film Festival.

Premise

The film investigates laboratory research on animals and follows Dr. Lisa Jones Engel, a primatologist turned animal welfare advocate, as it questions whether harming animals and ourselves in the name of science is justified.

Release

Sentient premiered as a world premiere in the World Cinema Documentary Competition at the 2026 Sundance Film Festival, held January 22 to February 1, 2026. Competition titles are included in the festival's at-home program, which runs January 29 to February 1, 2026.

Production

Dogwoof acquired world sales rights to the film in December 2025.

References