Chimpanzee

Chimpanzee

Year: 2012

Runtime: 78 min

Language: English

Directors: Alastair Fothergill, Mark Linfield

Documentary

Follow Oscar, a playful young chimpanzee, as he grows up in the forests of West Africa. This documentary captures his journey of discovery and the strong family bonds within his troop. Led by their wise matriarch, the chimpanzees navigate their lush environment, demonstrating remarkable intelligence and resourcefulness. Witness Oscar’s individual triumphs and the heartwarming connections that define their lives.

Warning: spoilers below!

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Timeline – Chimpanzee (2012)

Trace every key event in Chimpanzee (2012) with our detailed, chronological timeline. Perfect for unpacking nonlinear stories, spotting hidden connections, and understanding how each scene builds toward the film’s climax. Whether you're revisiting or decoding for the first time, this timeline gives you the full picture.

1

Oscar's early life in the chimpanzee troop

In Taï National Park, Oscar is a young chimp living in a forest territory with a close-knit tribe. The group forages for native fruits, nuts, figs, and uses primitive tools to hunt termites and crack nuts. Oscar learns survival basics from his mother, Isha.

toddler years Taï National Park, Ivory Coast
2

Isha teaches survival skills

Isha tends to Oscar and teaches him how to move through the jungle, read the other chimps, and use tools. He learns by example and imitation, absorbing techniques for gathering food and staying safe.

early days Taï National Park, Ivory Coast
3

Rival attack and mother's injury

A rival gang led by Scar launches an assault on the territory. Isha is injured during the chaos and becomes separated from the group with Oscar.

during the attack forest territory
4

Isha's probable fate

Narration suggests Isha most probably falls victim to a nocturnal leopard, leaving Oscar without his mother. The loss occurs amidst the dangers of the jungle.

night of the attack jungle
5

Oscar searches for his mother

Unaware of Isha's fate, Oscar spends much of his time looking for her and struggles to recall what she taught him. He begins to lose weight as hope fades.

following disappearance forest
6

Attempt to find a new caregiver

Oscar seeks another mother, but none of the females can help because they already have their own young to raise. The group remains divided and uncertain.

early isolation territory
7

The arrival of Freddy

The lone alpha male Freddy notices Oscar and starts to take an interest. Oscar imitates Freddy's behavior, and their unlikely pairing begins to form.

gradual development territory
8

Bonding and trust

Oscar follows Freddy and gradually learns by imitation, eventually sharing space with him on his back, an act usually reserved for mothers. Their bond grows as Oscar gains confidence and trust.

soon after meeting forest
9

Preparing for a conflict

As rivals prepare for another attack, Freddy is forced to step away from Oscar to organize the group, leaving the youngster confused. The dynamics of leadership and care shift under pressure.

before the attack territory
10

Scar's attack and unity

Scar leads a vicious attack, but Freddy's group's unity drives the rivals away into the jungle. The defense showcases the strength of cooperation within the troop.

during the attack forest clearing
11

Aftermath and growth

A few months later, the bond between Freddy and Oscar has grown, and life in the group starts returning to normal. Oscar settles into his place within the evolving family structure.

few months later territory
12

New normal and ongoing bond

Life within the troop stabilizes as Oscar remains under Freddy's protective partnership, illustrating how trust can form between unlikely allies to ensure survival.

ongoing Taï National Park, Ivory Coast

Last Updated: October 04, 2025 at 01:15

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Chimpanzee Summary

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Characters, Settings & Themes in Chimpanzee

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Characters, Settings & Themes in Chimpanzee

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More About Chimpanzee

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