Film Independent Members, you and a guest are invited to watch Checkpoint Zoo in the Film Independent Presents Online Screening Room, powered by Vision Media, followed by a pre-recorded conversation with director Joshua Zeman, moderated by Rachel Bleemer (Director of Programming and Events, Film Independent).

On February 24, 2022, Russia invaded Ukraine, starting the worst war Europe has seen in over 50 years. In the early days of the invasion, some of the fiercest fighting was on the outskirts of Kharkiv, Ukraine’s second-largest city. On one side was the advancing Russian Army, on the other side the defending Ukrainian Army. And in between them was a zoo, called Feldman Ecopark. Checkpoint Zoo documents a daring rescue led by a heroic team of zookeepers and volunteers who risked their lives to save thousands of animals trapped in a zoo behind enemy lines during the Russian invasion of Ukraine.

From Abramorama, Checkpoint Zoo premiered at the Tribeca Film Festival and was released August 15.

 
2024, 107 minutes, color | Written by Joshua Zeman and Daniel Lonsbury | Directed by Joshua Zeman | Produced by Zachary Mortensen, Joshua Zeman, Ian Davis, Torquil Jones | Executive Produced by Shawn Singh, Bonamy Grimes, Barry Smith, Catherine Quantschnigg, Gabriel Clarke, John McKenna, Caitlin Colford, Leonardo DiCaprio, Phillip Watson, Jennifer Davisson, Alex Finger, Zach Finger, Lauren Cohen, Phillip Cohen, Lauren Obed, Jordan Schwartz
 

Registration Information

Even when they reach capacity, Film Lover and Secret Members are guaranteed access to all online screenings. Arts Circle Members are guaranteed access to all online and in-person screenings. Email membership@filmindependent.org for more.

All Film Independent Members can register for this online screening starting at 6:00 pm on Monday, November 24. | Registration is free; one registration per Membership. | Proof of Member status is required to complete registration.
 

How to Watch

On the first day of screening availability, registered Members (and guests, when applicable) will be emailed a secure link by our partner Vision Media to watch this title in the Film Independent Presents Online Screening Room.
 

Accessibility

Film Independent is committed to hosting events that are accessible. For inquiries regarding accessibility, or to request an accommodation, please contact us at accessibility@filmindependent.org or 323 556 9305.
 

Online Screening Policies

Availability window and registration capacity may vary; always register as early as possible to ensure access. Links are watermarked, nontransferable and may only be used by the Member who completed the registration. Limit one link per Membership, per event.

Members are required to follow all rules and guidelines as laid out by Film Independent and/or its partners. If a guest has been registered for an event by a Member, these policies shall apply to that guest. Violation of policies may result in suspension or termination of Membership.

Event details and guest participation are subject to change or cancellation without prior notice.