Watch Rodents Of Unusual Size

Rodents Of Unusual Size is a 2017 documentary film directed by Chris Metzler, Jeff Springer, and Quinn Costello that explores the phenomenon of giant swamp rats that infest the wetlands of Louisiana. The film features interviews with local residents, hunters, and scientists who have all had encounters with these large rodents, also known as nutria.

The film takes its title from the Princess Bride quote "Rodents of Unusual Size? I don't think they exist," referring to the fact that many people are unaware of the existence of these massive rodents. Nutria are known for their voracious appetite, which has led them to consume large amounts of vegetation in the wetlands of Louisiana, destroying the natural habitat and causing erosion in the process.

The documentary captures the sense of urgency that surrounds the nutria infestation in Louisiana, with many people worried about the potential impact on the local ecosystem. The filmmakers interview a range of stakeholders, including hunters who are hired to kill the rodents, scientists who are researching the nutria population, and local residents who have been affected by the environmental destruction caused by the rodents. The film also explores the complex relationship between the people of Louisiana and the nutria, which are seen as both an invasive species and a valuable source of income.

One of the main themes of the film is the idea of adaptation, both for the nutria and for the people of Louisiana. The nutria have adapted to the wetland environment by using their large incisors to cut through vegetation, while humans have adapted by turning the nutria into a profitable industry. The filmmakers interview a group of entrepreneurs who have turned nutria fur into fashion items, such as hats and coats, and explore the potential for nutria meat to become a sustainable food source.

Through interviews with people on both sides of the nutria debate, the film sheds light on the tension between those who see the rodents as a pest and those who see them as a valuable resource. The documentary also touches on the historical context of the nutria infestation, which stems from a failed attempt to introduce the animals to the United States in the early 20th century for their fur.

The film is visually stunning, capturing the beauty of the Louisiana wetlands as well as the gruesome reality of the nutria infestation. The filmmakers use a mix of archival footage, interviews, and stunning drone shots to tell the story of the nutria in a compelling and engaging way.

Overall, Rodents Of Unusual Size is an insightful and thought-provoking documentary that explores the complex relationship between humans and nature. Through its exploration of the nutria infestation in Louisiana, the film raises important questions about environmental conservation, adaptation, and sustainability. It is a must-see for anyone interested in the intersection of human activity and the natural world.

Rodents Of Unusual Size is a 2018 documentary with a runtime of 1 hour and 11 minutes. It has received mostly positive reviews from critics and viewers, who have given it an IMDb score of 7.0 and a MetaScore of 65.