Ellis Park

Rock legends, Nina Simone’s chewing gum, and endangered animals in Sumatra come together in a musical and inspiring portrait of Warren Ellis’s life and work.

Warren Ellis is a man of many talents: Nick Cave’s close collaborator, film composer, and member of The Dirty Three. In debut documentarian Justin Kurzel’s (Nitram, 2021) film, Ellis reflects on his fascinating career in the international rock elite — a journey filled with intriguing detours. One such inspiring side path, emblematic of Ellis’s forward-thinking spirit, is his role as a patron saint for a wildlife sanctuary in Sumatra. During his first visit to the haven that bears his name, an endearing encounter unfolds between the sharply dressed rock star and animal rights activist Femke den Haas, who has dedicated her life to rescuing animals from the illegal trade.

• Erik Toresson Hellqvist