The new documentary, “Unspoken Bond,” explores the connection between humans and animals, and features familiar faces from the Florida Keys. Key West Theater will host a special screening of the film on Friday, July 31 at 8 p.m.
The film features Key Largo resident Nicole Navarro and her nonprofit, Pawsitive Beginnings, where foxes rescued from the fur and exotic pet trades are given permanent sanctuary while helping to inspire healing in people facing trauma, addiction and emotional hardship.
The Keys connection extends beyond Navarro and the foxes, with appearances by well-known local figures including exotic animal veterinarian Dr. Doug Mader and Monroe County Sheriff’s Office Jeanne Selander, affectionately known throughout the community as “Farmer Jeanne” for her work at the Sheriff’s Animal Farm.
Created and executive-produced by human-animal bond advocate Jackie Ducci, the film highlights three stories that showcase the effect animals can have on human lives. Ducci is also the founder of the Human-Animal Alliance, a Florida-based nonprofit dedicated to supporting programs centered around the healing power of the human-animal bond. Through the organization, grant funding has been awarded to Keys nonprofits including Pawsitive Beginnings to support animal-assisted healing initiatives.
In addition to Navarro’s story, the documentary follows international dressage rider Shannon Dueck as she navigates grief following the loss of her Olympic hopeful horse, Angel, and veteran Jason Gaver, whose service dog helps him cope with PTSD, isolation and personal loss after military service in Iraq.
The film is directed by award-winning filmmaker Don Hardy, whose work includes the Disney + series “Pick of the Litter,” as well as numerous documentaries exploring resilience, vulnerability and the connections that shape human lives.
“Unspoken Bond” invites audiences to consider how powerful the human-animal bond can be – from foxes rescued from fur farms to service dogs and elite horses.
Organizers hope the July 31 event will encourage locals to come together in support of a story that grew from the Keys and now resonates with audiences far beyond the island chain.
Tickets can be purchased at thekeywesttheater.com. The theater is located at 512 Eaton St., Key West.
