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Based on the true story of Matilda the pig.

“Matilda and the Brave Escape is an uplifting and empowering short film based on the true story of Matilda, a pig who escaped from a farm in the UK and gave birth to her piglets in a nearby woodland - saving herself and her piglets from certain death.

The story of Matilda is incredible for many reasons - from Matilda herself to the dedication and kindness of everyone who campaigned for her freedom, her story is truly remarkable. Matilda and the Brave Escape shows her incredible bravery through the style of a family-friendly animated children’s story - as we strongly believe that Matilda has the power to inspire all ages. But while many children’s stories anthropomorphise animals, we wanted to showcase Matilda as the autonomous individual that she really is, allowing an audience to connect with her experience more authentically.

Ultimately, though the realities of pig farming are truly horrifying, Matilda’s story is one of a huge amount of hope and inspiration.”

- Ed Winters

Matilda and the Brave Escape has won the 2025 Webby People’s Voice Award in the animation category.

The real Matilda.

Matilda now lives at Surge Sanctuary with her piglets, where she has spent over three years living a life of freedom and safety. She spends her days relaxing with her family, wallowing in mud and eating lots of delicious food and treats.

However, Matilda is one of the very few pigs who have managed to escape from the pig industry and from being forced into a slaughterhouse. Sadly, for billions of other pigs, their stories end on our dinner plates. But it doesn’t have to be this way.

If you’d like to sponsor Matilda or contribute to the upkeep and care of all the animals at Surge Sanctuary, your donations are greatly appreciated and allow us to continue providing the best lives possible for Matilda, her children and the other animals in our care.

Sponsor Matilda