Discovery Networks International Lines Up Chimp-Themed Doc

EDINBURGH: Discovery Networks International is premiering the documentary Rise of the Warrior Apes on its portfolio of factual channels, including Animal Planet in the U.S.

The two-hour film offers a new perspective on the warrior apes of Ngogo, Uganda. This group is the largest troop of chimpanzees ever discovered. Rise of the Warrior Apes, from director James Reed (Jago: A Life Underwater), is slated to premiere on Discovery Networks International’s portfolio of factual networks in more than 220 countries and territories, and on Animal Planet in the U.S., beginning in early 2017.

“Rise of the Warrior Apes is an epic film and a new approach to natural history that draws upon some of the most powerful storytelling archetypes,” said Marjorie Kaplan, the president of content at Discovery Networks International. “The chimps are not unlike some of the larger-than-life characters populating big drama today. They are rulers, usurpers, heroes, lovers and friends. But these creatures, who we know intimately through the experiences of the researchers who have studied them for decades, are no fictional invention. And that makes them and their lives even more captivating.”

“Within a couple of weeks of observing the group, it became very clear that something strange and unusual was going on here,” said Professor John Mitani. “You just have to keep your eyes open; chimps are interesting animals, and if you let them, they will tell you their stories.”

The film is produced for Discovery Networks International by Keo Films.