This documentary film actually came out in 1981, but until yesterday, I had never heard of it. Have you? If so, have you seen it? It obviously predates “Earthlings,” and seemed to have a similar impact to viewers — if you google the film, you’ll find many people writing that they went vegetarian or vegan after watching the film.

Like “Earthlings,” “The Animals Film” seems to have a strong impact on viewers — if you Google the film, you’ll find many people commenting that they went vegetarian or vegan after watching it.

I have yet to see the film, but judging from the trailer, I can tell that in the 30+ years since the film’s release, not much has changed. It’s hard to watch and to accept, although the use of a boppy Talking Heads tune in the trailer helps remove some of the weight of that impact.

I know that I sound pessimistic, but right now I feel devastated. It’s 2014, and animals are still abused, commodified, and objectified. Yes, we have made strides in the past few decades in improving the conditions and lives of some animals, but the general consensus is that animals remain ours to be used. What do you think?

Watch the trailer below and pass it along — you never know who may watch it and change their mind.