For generations, New Yorkers have flocked to the Bronx Zoo, the New York Aquarium and other Wildlife Conservation Society parks to connect with animals up close. Now, for the first time, they can experience that same passion for wildlife through film.

“You see the millions of people that are coming into our parks, and this is just another way to inspire people to love nature and take action,” said John Calvelli, executive vice president for public affairs at WCS, which operates the Bronx, Queens, Prospect Park and Central Park zoos.

The Wildlife Conservation Society is launching its inaugural Reel Wild film festival on April 4 and 5 at AMC Lincoln Square on the Upper West Side.

The festival will showcase 14 films, including Oscar-nominated documentaries and Emmy-winning television programs, all centered around conservation and the natural world.

Calvelli said film is another way of telling the story of conservation.

"What we want to try and do, at the end of the day is make sure that people understand the importance of saving nature and then they are going to do something about it," said Calvelli. 

Screenings will include Q&A sessions featuring not only filmmakers but also conservationists, who will provide insight into the science and real-world challenges facing wildlife.

“People coming to this film festival—it’s not just about seeing the film and enjoying this incredible work of art,” Calvelli said. “It’s about learning about the film, having the filmmaker there, but also having the scientist there to explain the issues those species are dealing with.”

With conservation efforts in more than 50 countries, Calvelli said WCS works to protect about half of the world’s biological diversity. The festival’s lineup reflects that global reach, featuring stories from across the planet.

To learn more and purchase tickets, visit ReelWild.org.