Hunting Isn't Cool

Craig Shapiro, PETA Foundation

Generations of filmgoers learned about the evils of hunting and the terrible toll it takes on animal families thanks in part to the artistry of Tyrus Wong. The distinguished painter, who passed away recently, was the designer and lead artist for the Disney classic Bambi.

The unforgettable scene in which Bambi’s mother is gunned down as they are foraging in the meadow made an indelible impression on, among countless others, Sir Paul McCartney, who said the film inspired his commitment to animal rights. “I think that made me grow up thinking hunting isn’t cool,” he explained.

Wong, a Chinese émigré, spent two years on the paintings that would define every aspect of Bambi. Audiences saw that love isn’t solely the provenance of humans and how different species can live in harmony. Thumper the rabbit and Flower the skunk befriend Bambi, and he finds love, too. When the hunters return, he musters his courage and leads the other animals to safety.

To honor Wong’s legacy, we hope that others will be inspired to live harmoniously with animals. To learn about ways to help animals, visit www.PETA.org.

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Beachcomber

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