ViewGuide

Created Mar 03, 2011 12:53PM PST • Edited Mar 03, 2011 12:53PM PST

1. Quality

2. Summary

   Very Good 3.5

   An interesting documentary about Mark Bittner, a homeless street musician who takes care of a flock of wild parrots that inhabit the Telegraph Hill area of San Francisco. While nobody is quite sure how this flock of 50 birds came to the area, we se that they have adapted are continuing to make baby parrots, ensuring their continued survival.

   The movie is really more about Mark Bittner in many ways than the birds. Why a man would invest his time and energy into caring for these animals, especially when he struggles to care for himself, is the driving force of the production. Bittner does an admirably job of feeding the birds., along with taking care of the injured ones, and serving as tour guide for those who stop by to watch him feed them. With no formal zoological training, he researches as much information as possible in an attempt to understand them. He also becomes a passionate advocate for the birds, testifying in front of the city council for their protection. He comes across as a far more engaging personality than the local woman who feeds the pidgeons.

   In the end, we wonder what really is motivating Mark. Clearly, he is passionate about the birds, but we also sense that they represent companionship that he is missing. Perhaps he enjoys the animals because they don’t judge him, or his appearance? Regardless, we are introduced to different members of the flock, and get to understand their lives a little better, much like a poor man’s version of "Gorilla’s in the Mist.”

   Good, safe, family entertainment.

   Watched on Netflix streaming.

4. Acting

   Good 3.0

   It’s a documentary, so acting is at a minimal, although I think Mark Bittner enjoys the spotlight and attention.

5. Male Stars Good 3.0

6. Female Stars Good 3.0

7. Female Costars Good 3.0

8. Male Costars Good 3.0

10. Film

    Very Good 3.5

    Nicely done, with the appropriate amount of attention to the birds, as well as the man.

11. Direction Very Good 3.5

12. Play Very Good 3.5

13. Music OK 2.5

14. Visuals Very Good 3.5
15. Content

16. Edge

    Tame 1.1

17. Sex Innocent 1.0

    No birds getting freaky here.

18. Violence Gentle 1.3

    Natural animal fighting. Nothing gruesome.

19. Rudeness Polite 1.0

21. Reality

    Natural 1.0

22. Circumstantial Natural 1.0

23. Biological Natural 1.0

24. Physical Natural 1.0