Watch Pecking Order

Pecking Order is a hilarious and heartwarming documentary about the highly competitive world of poultry breeding and showing in New Zealand. Directed by Slavko Martinov, the film follows a group of eccentric and passionate poultry enthusiasts as they prepare for the National Poultry Show in Christchurch, the biggest event of the year for the poultry community.

At the center of the film is Doug Bain, the long-time president of the Christchurch Poultry, Bantam and Pigeon Club, who takes his role very seriously and is determined to make sure everything runs smoothly. With his stern demeanor and thick New Zealand accent, Doug is a character in himself, and the film often cuts to his deadpan commentary on the various chickens and their owners.

The other poultry fanciers are just as entertaining, from the charming Bob Dawber, who has been competing for over 50 years, to the ambitious newbie Sarah Bunton, who has her sights set on winning with her prized Polish Frizzles. There's also Brian Glassey, a poultry judge who is tasked with reviewing hundreds of chickens in a single weekend, and who provides insight into the complexities of the judging process.

As the National Poultry Show approaches, tensions rise and rivalries emerge, with each of the competitors determined to have their birds come out on top. The film captures everything from the meticulous grooming and preening of the chickens to the tense moments as the results are announced, with plenty of humor and heart along the way.

One of the film's strengths is its ability to showcase the bond that develops between birds and their owners. From the little girl who adores her beloved Silkie Frizzles to the elderly man who lovingly dotes on his prize-winning Buff Orpingtons, the film reveals the deep connection between humans and their feathered friends. It's also a fascinating look into a subculture that most people outside the poultry world would never have encountered.

In addition to the entertaining cast of characters, the film also has stunning cinematography, capturing the beauty of the various chicken breeds in all their feathered glory. The slow-motion shots of the birds strutting their stuff are especially impressive, showcasing the incredible diversity and beauty of the poultry world.

Overall, Pecking Order is a delightful and charming documentary that offers a fascinating glimpse into the often-overlooked world of competitive poultry breeding and showing. Full of humor, heart, and stunning visuals, the film is a must-see for anyone who loves animals or is interested in exploring unique subcultures.

Pecking Order is a 2017 documentary with a runtime of 1 hour and 25 minutes. It has received mostly positive reviews from critics and viewers, who have given it an IMDb score of 7.1.