Watch Pelican Dreams

Pelican Dreams is a documentary directed by Judith Ehrlich that follows the journey of pelicans, particularly a California brown pelican named Gigi, as they navigate the challenges of life in their natural habitats. The documentary features interviews with various scientists, pelican experts and activists, as well as local residents, who all have something to say about these fascinating seabirds.

The film starts with a shot of the Golden Gate Bridge in San Francisco, which serves as the backdrop to the story of a group of brown pelicans that call the area home. We see them flying and diving into the water for fish, and also watch as they bask in the sun atop some rocks. In the opening scenes, we are introduced to Mark Bittner, a former street musician and writer who has befriended the pelicans and is the unofficial caretaker of the flock. He provides food and shelter for them, as well as medical attention when they are injured, and acts as their advocate in local government when their habitat is threatened.

Through Bittner's story, we are given a glimpse into the pelicans' way of life, including their migration patterns, mating rituals, and parenting techniques. We also learn about the challenges they face, such as pollution, climate change, and loss of habitat, and are shown the efforts being made to protect and conserve these important creatures. The film dives deeper into the world of pelicans by following Gigi, a rescued pelican who was abandoned as a baby and raised by humans. We see her journey from rehabilitation to release into the wild, as well as her interactions with other pelicans and humans.

The documentary is a visual feast for the eyes, offering stunning shots of the pelicans in flight, diving and swimming in the water, and perched on rocks with their wings spread wide. The camera work is impressive, at times it feels like we are flying alongside the pelicans or underwater with them.

Music plays a significant role in the documentary, emphasizing the pelican's graceful and serene movements. It adds a sense of beauty and wonder to the overall experience, immersing the viewers in the serene world of the pelicans.

The pelicans in the film are portrayed as much more than just birds. They are characters with distinct personalities and behaviors, and the documentary gives each of them a chance to shine. We see a group of pelicans clowning around in the water, splashing each other and vying for fish. We also witness the passion and dedication of the scientists and conservationists who work tirelessly to ensure the survival of these magnificent birds.

Pelican Dreams will leave its viewers with a deep appreciation for these wonderful birds. The documentary is not only informative but also emotionally engaging. It will inspire audiences to take action in protecting our natural heritage. The film serves as a reminder of the importance of preserving these creatures and their habitats, not just for pelicans but for the entire ecosystem. Overall, the documentary is a must-watch for anyone who loves nature and wants to learn more about these fascinating birds. It is a meditative reflection on the pelicans and their place in our world.

Pelican Dreams is a 2014 documentary with a runtime of 1 hour and 18 minutes. It has received mostly positive reviews from critics and viewers, who have given it an IMDb score of 6.8 and a MetaScore of 66.