The Birds Who Fear Death

This film received a brilliant Red-Carpet screening at the Calgary International Film Festival A huge thank you to the sponsors and attendees for making this premiere a memorable evening, it truly lived up to the occasion.

The Birds Who Fear Death is an engaging Indigenous film that explores true to life issues with heart. The response of the audience to key moments of emotional depth, demonstrated the talents of the actors and director, keeping viewers fully vested in the storyline.

There were moments I could foresee but, it was clear that the plot unpredictability caught many by surprise. This added to the film's powerful impact. I found myself laughing, crying, and reflecting-three essential ingredients of cinematic excellence that make The Birds Who Fear Death a film worth recommending. You won't want to miss this experience!

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.

The aptly titled "The Birds Who Fear Death" is a beautiful piece of Alberta & Canadian cinema. I had the pleasure of attending the screening at the Calgary International Film Festival and was incredibly touched by this moving & captivating film.

Sanjay Patel is a brilliant storyteller and the cinematography is absolutely breathtaking. As the characters go on no ordinary journey of self discovery, the audience is completely enthralled as we go along with them and we encounter unexpected turns along the way.

Sanjay honours the indigenous community by telling a story highlighting a reservation and the challenges faced through an entirely different lens that is so remarkably unique, while also being educational without forcing it. The absolutely brilliant cast rounds out this powerful film.

I highly recommend this film, and I hope it makes its way to the world stage where it deserves to be seen.

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.

This film is an absolute gem-full of heart... to say the least, with a gripping story, top-notch acting, and stunning visuals... The cast of Canada's finest Indigenous actors like Adam Beach and Graham Greene totally delivers, and the dialogue feels so real.

It dives deep into heavy themes like money, brotherhood, and losing touch with culture, but balances it all with moments that'll make you laugh and cry, often at the same time.... Sanjay Patel nailed it with his direction.

Caught it at the Calgary International Film Fest this weekend, and I seriously can't recommend it enough. If you get the chance, don't miss this one-it's unforgettable!