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