The film delves into the history and treatment of Tilikum, a captive orca involved in the death of a trainer at SeaWorld. It begins by tracing Tilikum's capture in the wild, showing the traumatic process of separating him from his family. The narrative highlights the conditions in which Tilikum and other orcas are kept, revealing insights from former SeaWorld trainers who recount their experiences with the whales. They describe the small, confined tanks, lack of environmental enrichment, and the stress these conditions impose on the orcas, leading to aggressive behaviors not typically seen in the wild.

As the documentary progresses, it presents expert opinions and research on orca behavior and psychology, illustrating how captivity significantly alters these majestic creatures. Archival footage and interviews expose incidents of aggression against trainers, culminating in discussions about broader ethical issues surrounding marine parks and animal captivity. Activists, scientists, and marine mammal specialists argue for a reevaluation of the treatment of these intelligent beings, pushing for increased awareness and change in how society views and interacts with captive marine life.