Global animal welfare organisation FOUR PAWS International has announced the streaming release of DETHRONED, an internationally recognised documentary exposing the realities facing big cats today.
The film is now available to stream on Curiosity Stream.
Created by Terra Mater Studios and Four Corners Film & Photography, in association with FOUR PAWS International, DETHRONED explores humanity’s changing relationship with big cats and the consequences of exploitation across multiple regions.
The documentary received a Gold Award at the 2025 International Tourism Film Festival Africa (ITFFA) in the Wildlife and Conservation category, recognising its impact and contribution to global animal welfare awareness.
A global investigation into big cat exploitation
DETHRONED follows environmental photojournalist Aaron Gekoski as he investigates some of the most urgent threats facing big cats.
Once revered, these animals are now affected by:
• Wildlife trafficking
• Commercial exploitation
• Weak or inconsistent legislation
The documentary spans several regions:
• Peru, where jaguar poaching feeds the illegal wildlife trade
• South Africa, where captive breeding, cub petting and live trade continue
• Pakistan, where big cats are kept as exotic pets
• Southeast Asia, where wildlife markets and entertainment venues drive demand
The film raises a central question: what happens when humans exploit what was once respected?
Behind the scenes of a hidden industry
Filming DETHRONED required extensive access and long-term commitment.
“We spent three years filming in six countries. This is the most important film I have worked on,” says Gekoski.
The production documents practices rarely seen by the public, revealing the day-to-day realities faced by big cats across the world.
Photo: Aaron Gekoski
Supporting global animal welfare efforts
FOUR PAWS continues to advocate for:
• Ending captive breeding of big cats for commercial use
• Stronger legal protections
• Ending cub petting and public handling
• Eliminating exploitative wildlife tourism
“With this documentary, we show that our relationship with big cats has reached a critical point,” says Fiona Miles, Director at FOUR PAWS.
The film highlights the impact of exploitation on animals, people and ecosystems, while encouraging informed global action.
Watch and share
FOUR PAWS encourages audiences to:
• Watch the documentary
• Share it with their communities
• Raise awareness about big cat exploitation
Additional streaming platforms will be announced.
Awards and global recognition
DETHRONED has received multiple international accolades, including:
• World Congress of Science & Factual Producers Buzzies Awards nomination (2024)
• Cannes Corporate Media & TV Awards Silver Dolphin (2024)
• Impact DOCS Awards Best of Show (2024)
• New York Festivals TV & Film Awards finalist (2025)
• International Tourism Film Festival Africa Gold Award (2025)
• Deauville Green Awards Silver Trophy (2025)
• US International Awards Grand Award and Gold Award (2025)
• Green Screen International Nature Film Festival nomination (2025)
The documentary reflects ongoing collaboration between filmmakers, conservationists and animal welfare organisations to address global wildlife challenges.
A call for awareness and action
The release of DETHRONED marks a key milestone in raising awareness about big cat exploitation.
By combining investigative storytelling with global insight, the film aims to inform audiences and support long-term conservation efforts.
For more information, visit the FOUR PAWS website.
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