With access to rarely seen footage from highly secure laboratories and compelling testimonies from researchers, whistleblowers, and policymakers, Sentient opens up a world that usually remains behind closed doors. At its heart is the personal journey of Dr. Lisa Jones-Engel, who, after decades of research with primates, began to question the moral and scientific foundations of her work and emerged as an advocate for animal welfare. What does it mean to harm animals in the name of progress? And what does that do to a person?

The film highlights not only the suffering of millions of laboratory animals worldwide, but also the psychological impact on the people who work with them. At the same time, proponents of animal testing are given the opportunity to defend their position. Director Tony Jones paints a nuanced and poignant portrait of a system that balances medical ambition and ethical boundaries, daring to confront his audience with challenging questions.