The Birds Who Fear Death

Wow, this movie is seriously one of the best Indigenous films I've seen in forever-and honestly, just one of the best films, period! Huge shoutout to Sanjay Patel for wearing so many hats on this project and bringing such a beautiful, touching, and hopeful story to life. Here's the scoop on the film (spoilers ahead!): So, Adam (played by Adam Beach) and Ryan Spence (played by Simon Baker) are hit with a shock when they find out their dad, William, left all his money to an Indigenous community in Northern Alberta instead of to them. When they get there, they're faced with the harsh reality of a cancer crisis affecting the community, all tied to industrial development. The acting chief, Faddy (Played by Glen Gould), is not holding back and blames their dad for all the mess.

The brothers decide they want to get their inheritance back, so they try to make some allies in the community. They go to Don (played by Nathaniel Arcand) for help after Sharon gives them the idea, but they back off when his demands get too steep.

Despite all the drama at first, the memory of Ed Whitford, a former chief respected by everyone, gives them a glimmer of hope for reconciliation. Faddy starts to see that there's more going on than just their dad's actions and chooses to let go of the inheritance. But this sets off Don, leading to a big, violent showdown that ends tragically with Ryan's death.

Adam, crushed by grief and unsure of where his life is headed, seeks peace in the wilderness. His journey helps him find a simpler way to live, shifting from greed to a real connection with nature and people. This is where Adam starts to find redemption and personal growth.

Writer, director Sanjay Patel has a real winner here. Through in-depth consultation with many members of Canada's indigenous community, combined with his own life experiences, he has crafted a story filled with heart, honesty, humour, serious personal and cultural conflict, more than a little heartbreak, and ultimately redemption.

The all-star cast is filled with many of Canada's finest actors, including Adam Beach, Simon Baker, Carmen Moore, Graham Greene, Glen Gould, Nathaniel Arcand, Michelle Thrush, Tanaya Beatty and so many more. Every member of the cast brings a level of honesty to their performances which elevates the movie from beginning to end. Huxley Fisher, as Norman is a standout, and I hope we get to see more of him over the years to come.

Charles Hamilton's cinematography is spot on, and often showcases the raw beauty of Alberta's natural scenery. This film is currently on the festival circuit and I highly recommend taking this one in.

This film is an absolute must-see, blending a powerful story with breathtaking visuals and an incredible Indigenous cast. It delves deep into themes of family, culture, greed, and redemption, offering an emotional journey that is both heart-wrenching and uplifting. The performances from Canada's top Indigenous actors, like Adam Beach and Graham Greene, are authentic and deeply compelling, bringing each character to life in a way that keeps you hooked from start to finish. Director Sanjay Patel balances raw emotion with moments of genuine humour, making the film both thought-provoking and entertaining. The cinematography, showcasing Alberta's natural beauty, is stunning and perfectly complements the story's tone. This film is a beautiful exploration of cultural disconnection, personal growth, and the strength of human connection. Don't miss out on this captivating experience-it's a gem that will stay with you long after the credits roll.

I had the pleasure of watching this film at the Calgary International Film Festival yesterday, and I must say, it's a truly captivating and beautiful piece of cinema. The story delves into deep and relatable themes such as the corrupting power of money and greed, the strength and complexity of brotherhood, and the painful disconnection from one's roots and culture. These universal struggles are handled with such sensitivity and grace, making the film not only emotionally resonant but also thought-provoking.

Director and writer Sanjay Patel has truly outdone himself, crafting a delicate balance between tear-jerking moments and moments of laughter that feel so natural and heartfelt. It's been a long time since I've experienced a movie that manages to tug at your heartstrings while also making you smile, sometimes even in the same scene.

The Indigenous cast delivers absolutely stellar performances, bringing the story to life in a way that keeps you hooked from start to finish. Every character feels authentic and layered, and their emotional journeys will keep you on the edge of your seat throughout the film.

If you have the chance to see this movie, don't hesitate. It's an unforgettable experience, and I can't recommend it enough. This is a must-watch!

The death of their estranged father sends two brothers on the trip of a lifetime. As their father's spirit heads for the great beyond they head to the back of beyond, where it all started.

In this richly textured homecoming to a home they never knew, Bird, Adan and Ryan encounter beauty, tragedy, heartbreak, and ultimate loss.

Achingly beautiful prairie vistas are superbly captured as a backdrop to nuanced and righteously subtle actor portrayals.

The flight to Bird is indeed a complicated one. It dive bombs for truth, banks with introspection and swoops with unexpected mirth.

The Birds Who Fear Death is a movie worth watching with writer, director and producer Sanjay Patel's grit, passion and heart emblazoned across it's wingspan.