In a year or two, I don’t think that I will
remember many specific moments in Winged Migration.
Heck, I don’t even recall three of the names of the
types of birds featured in it, right now. There are not
many bits of footage that stand out, amongst the
pack, even though every minute of this movie is amazing
to view. Filmmaker Jacques Perrin does succeed in
creating one dazzling spectacle of a film, however. When
viewing Winged Migration, we’re experiencing
another word; every bit of it is surreal. We feel the
same way for the birds in it as we would for the “good
guys” in an action film. Perrin’s work on the project
treats the birds as if they’re humans; we even develop a
tremendous respect for them, by the end of the movie.
This flick has a lot to offer—insanely astounding camera
angles, captivating material, and beautiful views of
some fascinating creatures—are a few of the most
pleasing. I still can’t believe that I was actually
choked up over something like snow geese being shot by
hunters.
I was pleasantly surprised to
find out that Winged Migration wasn’t made to be
educational. It’s about gaining admiration for the
extraordinary things that birds do, routinely, every
year. Occasionally, there are a few captions that appear
at the bottom of the screen, informing us about specific
flock’s migration patterns, or some narration done by
Perrin, but for the most part, we’re just supposed to
watch and observe. Doing so is never a chore, either.
Viewing Winged Migration was one of the most
pleasurable experiences I’ve in years. It’s an epic
about life, loss, and awakening—told through the eyes of
another type of creature. As I stated before, this isn’t
a particularly memorable film, but it’s definitely
mind-blowing to watch for the first time, though. A once
in a lifetime experience, Winged Migration is
sure to have audiences gasping in amazement, for the
entire duration long.
The beautiful way in which the
musical score combines with the eye-opening shots of
birds is hypnotic. Winged Migration flows like
water running down a stream; it’s never rushed, nor
boring. The pace, tone, and feel are always perfect.
Perrin’s style, essentially, could’ve made any topic
interesting. The birds aren’t the best part of this
movie; the work behind the camera takes that title.
Every technical aspect of this film is accomplished and
inspired.
Even though Winged
Migration is not a great movie, Perrin has done the
best he could’ve ever possibly done. Who could ask for
more? This one is enthralling, engaging, and a definite
must-see. It is one of the year’s greatest treasures. I
would love to see Perrin’s next film, if he does make
one. One thing’s for sure—anyone who sees Winged
Migration will definitely be satisfied with it, and
have a better understanding of the lives of various
types of birds. It, truly, is a phenomenally rewarding
experience.
-Danny, Bucket Reviews