Winged Migration (2001)

Netflix Synopsis: Amazing cinematography and gorgeous music fill this documentary-adventure created by French filmmakers Jacques Cluzaud, Michel Debat and Jacques Perrin. Presented with almost no narration and filmed primarily from a bird’s perspective, this study of the lives and habits of migrating birds re-creates as nearly as possible the experiences of the birds themselves.

Review: This is another movie I had put off for quite some time, because it is after all, just about birds. This was an amazing documentary filmed over 4 years, the filmmakers used hang gliders and helicopters to film from a birds perspective. This made you feel as though you were a part of the flock. There was very little narration, yet you still picked up a lot of information. It was a beautiful film about many different species of birds from all over the world. Definitely worth checking out.

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Submitted by: Heather 10/17/04

The Hunting of the President (2004)

Netflix Synopsis: This documentary provides a sobering look inside the “vast right-wing conspiracy” that Hillary Clinton claimed was committed to driving her husband from the presidency. Bill Clinton confidant Harry Thomason entertainingly chronicles a particularly tumultuous period in American politics, showcasing a cast of characters that includes Clinton foes such as Gennifer Flowers and Kenneth Starr. Narrated by Morgan Freeman.

Review: This is a movie about the right-wing and how they were determined to take down Clinton’s presidency no matter what. There were a lot of interesting facts presented that I had not been aware of. After seeing this, I wonder how Clinton was able to pass any legislation or do any presidential work. It was a good movie, though a bit slow at times. The best part of the DVD was a speech by Clinton found under the special features. Clinton was always a fabulous speaker. He talks about the history of American politics and how they are changing, for better and for worse. Take a look at this film if it sounds interesting to you.

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Submitted by: Heather 10/12/04

Dogtown and Z-Boys (2002)

Netflix Synopsis: A new style of skateboarding emerged in the 1970s — showcasing moves borrowed from famous surfers — and with it, a skating culture was born. Legendary skateboarder Stacy Peralta (Riding Giants) directed this fast-paced, award-winning documentary that focuses on the Z-Boys of Venice Beach, Calif. This innovative group of guys became legends in the sport, and the depth of their influence is felt in a variety of sports — and society — today.

Review: What an amazing documentary. I can say that because I am not a big fan of surfing, nor skateboarding yet this film was interesting and intriguing. It is about Dogtown, a poor part of Los Angeles, where surfers began the skateboarding phenomenon of the 1970’s. This was a group of kids looking for something to do when the surf went down by mid-morning. Their style on the skateboards was very similar to their style on the waves, and no one had ever seen that done before. They left a mark in the sport of skateboarding that can always be seen. If you have time to check this one out, even if skateboarding does not interest you, I still recommend this movie.

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Submitted by: Heather 10/12/04