Joe Blog

From 1 -3 August, The Bioscope is proud to present a special selection of films from this year’s Durban International Film Festival.
ALL OTHER SCREENINGS WILL BE LISTED HERE
PIGCASSO: MILLION DOLLAR PIG
by Stefan Enslin | 60 min
In the heart of South Africa’s Franschhoek Valley, a piglet destined for slaughter is given a second chance at life–and an unexpected gift. Pigcasso, rescued by animal rights activist Joanne Lefson, defies all odds to become the world’s first painting pig, creating breathtaking artworks that challenge perceptions of animal intelligence and artistic expression.
From the chaos of a factory farm to the serene landscapes of the Farm Sanctuary SA, Pigcasso’s journey is nothing short of extraordinary. As she playfully experiments with paint, her natural talent blossoms, attracting global attention. What begins as a quirky experiment soon evolves into a phenomenon, culminating in sold-out exhibitions, collaborations with global brands like Swatch, and the sale of the most expensive artwork ever created by an animal. But behind the fame and fortune, Pigcasso’s story is deeply intertwined with Jo’s own journey–one of dedication, love, and the ever- present reality that time is fleeting. As Pigcasso’s health declines, Jo must come to terms with the inevitable, knowing that their shared adventure has left an indelible mark on the world. With never-before-seen footage, intimate reflections, and a visually rich narrative that mirrors the hero’s journey, Pigcasso: The Million Dollar Pig is a testament to the power of creativity, resilience, and the bond between humans and animals. It is a story that will inspire audiences to see the world differently–one brushstroke at a time.