Max Original Documentary BLOODY TROPHY Debuts May 16

A hard-hitting journalistic investigation into the illegal rhino horn trade leads straight to Poland and exposes the shadowy involvement of the Vietnamese mafia. But in the unequal battle to protect one of the planet's most endangered species, is there still hope?

Max Original documentary BLOODY TROPHY debuts FRIDAY, MAY 16 on Max.

Rhinoceros are on the brink of extinction. While hunting them in Africa may seem like a distant issue to many in Poland, the record for the highest number of rhino trophies imported from South Africa belongs to Polish hunters. Even more disturbing - the valuable horns often disappear and are replaced by fakes. This strange pattern caught the attention of Polish investigative journalists who uncover shocking truths.

At the center of this criminal network is the Vietnamese mafia, operating across several European countries, including the Czech Republic and Poland. The film takes an in-depth look at their operations - how they recruit hunters and why trophies from so-called "pseudo-hunts" are sold at astronomical prices. A Laotian mafia boss, a Thai accomplice, Vietnamese traffickers, prostitutes, and a Polish taxidermist form the criminal ensemble of this film.

BLOODY TROPHY highlights those fighting for good - the conservationists, vets, and activists who have dedicated their lives to protecting these magnificent animals. Because of their efforts, rhinos still exist outside the pages of books or photographs. Director and screenwriter Ewa Galica uses real footage from pseudo-hunts and, with the support of wildlife organizations and veterinarians, captures exclusive and powerful scenes of African rhinos in their natural habitat.

The film is executive produced by Jarosław Jabrzyk; written and directed by Ewa Galica; cinematography by Olgierd Michalak and Piotr Wacowski. The production was managed by Dominika Lenart and editing by Tomasz Polsakiewicz. Sound design was overseen by Wojciech Podhorodecki. The film was shot in Poland, Czech Republic and South Africa.