It’s Rare That Farmed Pigs Get ‘Happily Ever Afters’ – But This Family Of 11 Did

When Pigs Escape is a vegan documentary that follows the story of a family of pigs rescued from a UK meat farm, known as the “Ollerton 11”. Matilda, a heavily pregnant pig, escaped from a Nottinghamshire farm and gave birth in the woods, capturing the hearts of the UK public. Negotiations led to Matilda and her piglets being rescued and taken to live out their days in peace at Surge Sanctuary and Brinsley Animal Rescue. The documentary offers an honest look at the lives of the pigs, showcasing their sociable, intelligent, and maternal nature, while encouraging viewers to reconsider their relationships with animals.

Director Jusep Moreno, a vegan filmmaker originally from Spain, was inspired to create When Pigs Escape after witnessing Matilda's story unfold. The film, which has won several awards, highlights the emotional depth and complexity of pigs, moving past simple anthropomorphism seen in mainstream media. Viewers in the UK can stream the documentary online or purchase a DVD, with filmmakers urging the public to request the film on platforms like Netflix to raise awareness about animal welfare and environmental concerns.