Vancouver-based Fast Cat Films has announced a world-first look into the high-stakes world of wildlife conservation. The new documentary, Cheetah Fast & Wild, will make its television debut as part of The Nature of Things on CBC and CBC Gem on Thursday, April 2nd, 2026.
Directed and produced by award-winning filmmaker Joe Kennedy, the film provides exclusive access to a process many experts once called impossible: “wilding” captive-born cheetahs to become successful, self-sufficient hunters.
A Tale of Two Sisters
The documentary follows the emotional and perilous journey of Lilly and Iris, two cheetah sisters raised in captivity after their mother was killed by lions. To survive in the wild, they must undergo the intense “trials and tribulations” of learning to hunt from scratch.
While Lilly and Iris struggle to identify prey—initially chasing everything from zebras to rhinos—the film simultaneously tracks a wild cheetah family in the Sanbona Wildlife Reserve. Led by a formidable mother, these wild cubs provide a stark contrast to the captive-reared sisters, illustrating the vital lessons Lilly and Iris missed.
The Science of the “Wilding Camp”
The film highlights the innovative work of organizations like Ashia Cheetah Conservation and Botlierskop Game Reserve. The “secret” to their success lies in a specialized wilding camp where the cats can live in a natural environment while receiving human support when necessary.
“It was fascinating following them for three months and watching them learn a little bit every day on how to be a successful hunter,” says Kennedy, who notes that capturing this process on camera is a global first.
About the Filmmaker
Vancouver’s own Joe Kennedy brings over three decades of international experience to this project. His career has taken him from the BBC Natural History Unit to residencies in London, Amsterdam, and South Africa, where he developed a specialty in wildlife behavior and conservation. His previous award-winning work includes projects for National Geographic, Discovery, and PBS. —Noa Nichol
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April 13th, 2026 at 9:53 pm
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