The Joe Rogan Experience #1988 - James Reed
May 18, 2023
James Reed, a renowned filmmaker known for his work on "My Octopus Teacher," discusses his latest series "Chimp Empire." He shares the intricate process of filming Ngogo chimpanzees over 400 days, highlighting their unique social behaviors and communication methods. Reed dives into the logistical challenges of wildlife filming, including the use of solar energy and advanced techniques that captured intimate moments in nature. His insights into the emotional bonds formed during long-term observations reflect deep ethical considerations in wildlife documentation.
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Chimp Empire: Origins
- James Reed discusses the making of "Chimp Empire," a four-part Netflix series about Ngogo chimpanzees.
- 400 days of footage documented their complex lives, enabled by a 30-year scientific study.
Filming Chimps Up Close
- Filming chimps requires close proximity due to dense rainforest habitat.
- A passive, respectful presence minimizes interaction and allows natural behavior observation.
Monkey Hunting
- Joe Rogan and James Reed discuss the disturbing nature of chimps hunting monkeys.
- Reed mentions witnessing this numerous times, recalling a camerawoman's initial shock.