The Last Dolphin King is a Spanish-language documentary directed by Susana Guardiola that chronicles the life of internationally renowned dolphin trainer José Luis Barbero. The film provides an intimate look at Barbero's life, from his early days working at a water park in Spain to his rise to fame as one of the world's most respected and innovative trainers.
The film explores Barbero's unique approach to training, which emphasized empathy and understanding of the dolphins in his care. Through interviews with Barbero's colleagues, friends, and former apprentices, we learn about his groundbreaking work with dolphins and his influence on the field of marine mammal training.
The Last Dolphin King also delves into the controversy that surrounded Barbero's work in the later years of his career. Some critics argued that his training methods were unethical, as they involved keeping dolphins in small tanks for extended periods of time. The film examines these criticisms and Barbero's response to them, as well as his ongoing efforts to defend the work he was so passionate about.
Tragically, the film concludes with the shocking news of Barbero's death in 2015. The circumstances surrounding his death are unclear, but the film suggests that he may have taken his own life due to mounting pressure in his personal and professional life.
Overall, The Last Dolphin King is a moving tribute to a man who dedicated his life to understanding and caring for these intelligent and complex creatures. The film offers a fascinating glimpse into the world of dolphin training and the complex ethical questions that surround it.
