About Rowdy Girl
Founded in 2015 by Renee King-Sonnen, Rowdy Girl Sanctuary (“RGS”) is a 501(c)(3) charity located
between San Antonio and Houston, in Waelder, TX that provides sanctuary to rescued farm animals
and advocates a vegan lifestyle.
After going vegan, King-Sonnen and her husband, Tommy Sonnen, turned their beef cattle ranch
into a farm animal sanctuary that seeks to rescue farm animals from the cruelties of factory farming.
Its mission is to educate the public about the cruelties of factory farming and to inspire other ranchers
to experience a paradigm shift and help them move from participating in the cruelty of factory
farming to living out compassion towards the animals whose lives usually end in brutal death.
Director’s Note
I was originally drawn to Renee’s story when I learned that she was not only rescuing animals
but rescuing ranchers. That idea crystalized in my mind, that her method of activism was
disarming, displayed vulnerability, and was authentically holistic. I could see how she embodies
the core philosophy of animal liberation: that animals are sentient beings who have their own
interests, desires, and complex emotional lives.
My intent with this film was to showcase the deep compassion, understanding, and unusual methods
that are required of activists to help people open their hearts and minds to the cruel nature of animal
agriculture.
It was critical to show that there is no blame or judgment upon those working in the industry.
Instead, Renee is building a compassionate world in her vision, that is inclusive and accepting,
empathetic and patient. This informed how I approached the technical aspects of filmmaking,
following strict observational criteria, even avoiding music in favor of the voices and sounds of her
animal family.
The result is a deeply immersive and emotional experience that speaks to the heart of Renee’s
mission. The world is waking up to the ongoing cruelty in industries that rely upon animals to make
their products and
it’s the work of people like Renee who extend a hand to those ready to change. – Jason Goldman
