THE WILD PARROTS OF TELEGRAPH HILL
Directed, Produced, Director of Photography, & Edited by: Judy Irving.
Based on the book The Wild Parrots of Telegraph Hill by Mark Bittner.
Music by: Chris Michie.
Released by: Shadow Distribution.
Country of Origin: USA. 83 min. Rated: G.

Mark Bittner, the St. Francis of Telegraph Hill, has for five years taken care of a flock of wild parrots in his own backyard. He speculates they were once pets or escapees from a ship originating from Brazil. Bittner details the sociable birds' mating and grooming habits, with much use of up-close video footage he shot himself. With his long hair (which he won't cut until he gets a girlfriend), the conversational and laid-back Bittner is anything but pedantic. A former street musician who is neither beatnik nor hippy, he hasn't paid rent in over 25 years, but renovations will soon force Bittner to part from his home and his flock.

Two birds steal the film. Mingus, with a Dr. Jekyll/Mr. Hyde personality, is a wild bird who doesn't want to be wild, clamoring to stay inside Bittner's bungalow. And as the only blue-crowned conure in the flock, the regal Connor is the aloof outsider.

The film offers a more detailed and specific focus than the sweeping Winged Migration, another documentary homage to the bird kingdom. Like that visually stunning film, the more intimate Wild Parrots has a strong appeal to general audiences. Children will certainly be taken by the birds, but those ages eight and up will more likely absorb the information. Its amicability and bittersweet tone will charm more than just bird lovers. Kent Turner
February 11, 2005