On October 24, 2025, coinciding withInternational Gibbon Day, Shanghai Roots & Shoots hosted a documentary screening event, "The Gibbon Film Salon." The event brought together a diverse group of participants, including students and teachers, volunteers, and many new friends passionate about ecological conservation. Together, they shared an evening that was both inspiring and educational, filled with heartfelt moments and a shared sense of purpose.
The event commenced with a specialhighlight: an exclusive video message from Mr. Xu Jian, founder of Colorful Nature and producer of the documentary The Ark, recordedspecifically for this occasion. Drawing from his profound field experience, Mr.Xu vividly shared behind-the-scenes stories from the filming process and also introducedthe survival challengesfaced by the Cao Vit Gibbon, one of the world’s most endangered primates. His sincere and compelling presentation deeply resonated with the audience, creating an emotional connection between attendees and these distant, remarkable creatures.
During the subsequent screening session,the documentary The Ark employed its authentic cinematographyto present the collaborative cross-border conservation efforts between China
and Vietnam for the Cao Vit Gibbons. The most poignant part of the film was the long-term follow-up of the "Mi Ling" family. The scenes of them leaping gracefully through the towering canopies, and the tender moments of family members huddling together and grooming each other, revealed a familial bond and emotional world strikingly similar to our own. This display of vibrant life and deep emotional connection moved many audience members to tears, making them aware that conservation is not merely about species survival, but also about safeguarding these "soul neighbors" with whom we share an emotional resonance.
After the movie, Mr. Guo from ShanghaiRoots & Shoots elaborated on the habitat restoration project for Cao Vit Gibbons in Jingxi, Guangxi. He also presented the outcomes of our annual "Making toys for Gibbons’ educational campaign eventin partnership with Shanghai Zoo.
His presentation demonstrated practical ways for the public to get involved in the conservation, helping to these creatures in the forests, even from thousands of miles away.
The event concluded amid a warm andenthusiastic atmosphere. As Dr. Jane Goodall said, "Only if we understand can we care. Only if we care will we help. Only if we help shall all be saved.”Shanghai Roots & Shoots looks forward to joining hands with more partners in the future to collectively protect the endangered species, preserving this vital "Ark" of life – for them, and for us all.
