User reviews

Full of heart, this touching drama has a compelling story, great acting all around and absolutely delicious cinematography. A few hard won laughs in its dark subject matter about the plight of modern day indigenous peoples of Canada. A story of family, community, personal growth and redemption. More than charming, it makes a journey and takes you with it.

With Canada's top indigenous actors vAdam Beach, Simon Baker, Carmen Moore, Graham Greene, Glen Gould, Nathaniel Arcand, Michelle Thrush, Tanaya Beatty and more, the acting is solid and the dialogue is real.

I highly recommend this new Canadian gem.

I had the pleasure of watching this film at the Calgary International Film Festival yesterday, and I must say, it's a truly captivating and beautiful piece of cinema. The story delves into deep and relatable themes such as the corrupting power of money and greed, the strength and complexity of brotherhood, and the painful disconnection from one's roots and culture. These universal struggles are handled with such sensitivity and grace, making the film not only emotionally resonant but also thought-provoking.

Director and writer Sanjay Patel has truly outdone himself, crafting a delicate balance between tear-jerking moments and moments of laughter that feel so natural and heartfelt. It's been a long time since I've experienced a movie that manages to tug at your heartstrings while also making you smile, sometimes even in the same scene.

The Indigenous cast delivers absolutely stellar performances, bringing the story to life in a way that keeps you hooked from start to finish. Every character feels authentic and layered, and their emotional journeys will keep you on the edge of your seat throughout the film.

If you have the chance to see this movie, don't hesitate. It's an unforgettable experience, and I can't recommend it enough. This is a must-watch!

Wow, this movie is seriously one of the best Indigenous films I've seen in forever-and honestly, just one of the best films, period! Huge shoutout to Sanjay Patel for wearing so many hats on this project and bringing such a beautiful, touching, and hopeful story to life. Here's the scoop on the film (spoilers ahead!): So, Adam (played by Adam Beach) and Ryan Spence (played by Simon Baker) are hit with a shock when they find out their dad, William, left all his money to an Indigenous community in Northern Alberta instead of to them. When they get there, they're faced with the harsh reality of a cancer crisis affecting the community, all tied to industrial development. The acting chief, Faddy (Played by Glen Gould), is not holding back and blames their dad for all the mess.

The brothers decide they want to get their inheritance back, so they try to make some allies in the community. They go to Don (played by Nathaniel Arcand) for help after Sharon gives them the idea, but they back off when his demands get too steep.

Despite all the drama at first, the memory of Ed Whitford, a former chief respected by everyone, gives them a glimmer of hope for reconciliation. Faddy starts to see that there's more going on than just their dad's actions and chooses to let go of the inheritance. But this sets off Don, leading to a big, violent showdown that ends tragically with Ryan's death.

Adam, crushed by grief and unsure of where his life is headed, seeks peace in the wilderness. His journey helps him find a simpler way to live, shifting from greed to a real connection with nature and people. This is where Adam starts to find redemption and personal growth.

This film is an absolute gem-full of heart... to say the least, with a gripping story, top-notch acting, and stunning visuals... The cast of Canada's finest Indigenous actors like Adam Beach and Graham Greene totally delivers, and the dialogue feels so real.

It dives deep into heavy themes like money, brotherhood, and losing touch with culture, but balances it all with moments that'll make you laugh and cry, often at the same time.... Sanjay Patel nailed it with his direction.

Caught it at the Calgary International Film Fest this weekend, and I seriously can't recommend it enough. If you get the chance, don't miss this one-it's unforgettable!

A brilliant story that accurately reflects the cultural journey many Indigenous people can relate to in some capacity. As two big city brothers reluctantly (accidentally) reconnect with their native roots, much deeper relationships are discovered all around them.

With exceptional performances by a stacked cast, this film was actually very fun to watch. The subtle comedic nuances kept us laughing in-between themes of disconnection from nature, human greed, and the search for deeper meaning.

Incredible cinematography and original storytelling made this film a pleasure to watch. Sanjay has truly outdone himself with this piece.

This film is an absolute must-see, blending a powerful story with breathtaking visuals and an incredible Indigenous cast. It delves deep into themes of family, culture, greed, and redemption, offering an emotional journey that is both heart-wrenching and uplifting. The performances from Canada's top Indigenous actors, like Adam Beach and Graham Greene, are authentic and deeply compelling, bringing each character to life in a way that keeps you hooked from start to finish. Director Sanjay Patel balances raw emotion with moments of genuine humour, making the film both thought-provoking and entertaining. The cinematography, showcasing Alberta's natural beauty, is stunning and perfectly complements the story's tone. This film is a beautiful exploration of cultural disconnection, personal growth, and the strength of human connection. Don't miss out on this captivating experience-it's a gem that will stay with you long after the credits roll.

I was lucky enough to see The Birds who Fear Death at the Calgary International Film Festival this past Saturday night. Sanjay Patal, who not only wrote and directed this great film, but he was the Production Designer, Editor, Assisted with casting and helped with Locations.

He was involved with all aspects of this film and it shows. 100% invested in The Birds and all pertinent details.

The locally shot film had mostly an all indigenous cast and I can't say one negative world about any of the performances. So nice to see Adam Beach back in Canada and Michelle Thrush gave a wonderful performance.

The locations (in and around Calgary) were perfectly selected and really highlighted Alberta.

The cinematography was really splendid. Thanks to Charles Hamilton and your vision.

This was the second feature film from Sanjay Patal and we can only hope he's got more films coming down the pipes.

I was fortunate enough to see this film in the theatre at the Calgary International Film Festival. This story was both timeless and yet topical. It's about Canadian Indigenous brothers reconnecting with their roots but the story is one we can all relate to and connect with. Without spoiling anything, there are some heart wrenching, unpredictable moments but there is also some heartfelt humor throughout as well. I was completely invested in each character's journey and walked away wiser and emotionally wrecked! There were incredible performances by veteran actors Graham Greene, Adam Beach, Simon Baker, Carmen Moore, Glen Gould and Teanna Beatty (to name just a few!) Do NOT miss out on your chance to watch this film!! Beautifully shot in Alberta as well. :)

Writer, director Sanjay Patel has a real winner here. Through in-depth consultation with many members of Canada's indigenous community, combined with his own life experiences, he has crafted a story filled with heart, honesty, humour, serious personal and cultural conflict, more than a little heartbreak, and ultimately redemption.

The all-star cast is filled with many of Canada's finest actors, including Adam Beach, Simon Baker, Carmen Moore, Graham Greene, Glen Gould, Nathaniel Arcand, Michelle Thrush, Tanaya Beatty and so many more. Every member of the cast brings a level of honesty to their performances which elevates the movie from beginning to end. Huxley Fisher, as Norman is a standout, and I hope we get to see more of him over the years to come.

Charles Hamilton's cinematography is spot on, and often showcases the raw beauty of Alberta's natural scenery. This film is currently on the festival circuit and I highly recommend taking this one in.

We've really done a disservice to Native Americans and Indigenous people in Canada, but this movie showcases their incredible talent.

The cast is one of the best Indigenous line-ups I've ever seen, and it's rare to see them in leading roles. It's got that Hollywood vibe, but with Indigenous actors who give performances as good as any award-winning Hollywood star. Everything about the film blew me away-the story, dialogues, production design, locations, music, editing, and especially the acting, including the young boy who played Norman. None of it would have been possible without Sanjay Patel, who wrote and directed it beautifully.

I'm honestly shocked this film didn't get picked up by major festivals. Where's TIFF on this? This is exactly the type of movie TIFF should be showcasing. I was at TIFF a few dayts ago and saw plenty of mediocre films, even a couple of Indigenous ones, but none came close to this. It's a shame TIFF ignored this Canadian gem.

Do yourself a favor and watch this movie. It's heartwarming, heart-wrenching, and hands down some of the best cinema I've seen.

I had the pleasure of watching this film at ciff last night. I also had the pleasure of being a part of this amazing cast and crew and can't say enough about how wonderful and amazing this film turned out to be. Lots of laughs and a few tears shed. The actors really bring the story to life. A very heartfelt, indigenous story about 2 brothers who really find themselves on their journey to finding their people and their fortune. Shows the strength and bond of the brothers, family, greed, disconnection of culture, and redemption. This a must watch.

The cinematography absolutely amazing, and Sanjay was not only a pleasure to work with, he also wrote and directed an amazing story. If you get the chance to go out and see it please do.

The death of their estranged father sends two brothers on the trip of a lifetime. As their father's spirit heads for the great beyond they head to the back of beyond, where it all started.

In this richly textured homecoming to a home they never knew, Bird, Adan and Ryan encounter beauty, tragedy, heartbreak, and ultimate loss.

Achingly beautiful prairie vistas are superbly captured as a backdrop to nuanced and righteously subtle actor portrayals.

The flight to Bird is indeed a complicated one. It dive bombs for truth, banks with introspection and swoops with unexpected mirth.

The Birds Who Fear Death is a movie worth watching with writer, director and producer Sanjay Patel's grit, passion and heart emblazoned across it's wingspan.

The aptly titled "The Birds Who Fear Death" is a beautiful piece of Alberta & Canadian cinema. I had the pleasure of attending the screening at the Calgary International Film Festival and was incredibly touched by this moving & captivating film.

Sanjay Patel is a brilliant storyteller and the cinematography is absolutely breathtaking. As the characters go on no ordinary journey of self discovery, the audience is completely enthralled as we go along with them and we encounter unexpected turns along the way.

Sanjay honours the indigenous community by telling a story highlighting a reservation and the challenges faced through an entirely different lens that is so remarkably unique, while also being educational without forcing it. The absolutely brilliant cast rounds out this powerful film.

I highly recommend this film, and I hope it makes its way to the world stage where it deserves to be seen.

When a father leaves his inheritance to a remote band of indigenous people (The Birds), two brothers embark on a journey to try and reclaim what they believe is rightfully theirs only to discover that there is more to reclaim than money. Their quest unveils not only the truth about their father, but forces the brothers (played by Adam Beach and Simon Baker) to face their deep rooted connection to The Birds and their place amongst it's people.

This is a wonderfully shot film and a stunningly beautiful Alberta backdrop adds to the ever present theme of the fragility of the land and the people whose history, lives and future depend on it. Filmmaker, writer, and director, Sanjay Patel has given us a thoughtful, and surprisingly timely film. It is wonderfully cast with note worthy performances by Beach and Baker, as well as Carmen Moore (as Sharon) and Canadian film legend Graham Greene (as Chief Ed).

Well worth watching, this is a gem of a film!

This film is well worth your time. Although many of the themes are of a very serious nature, the use of humour also makes it a fun watch. The performances by the cast are excellent and there is some beautiful cinematography as well. The treatment of first nations people in North America has always been a hot topic, and the film demonstrates the fact that the circumstances surrounding treaties are complicated. First nations people are often forced to choose between poverty and the loss of their control of their resources. It's often a lose/lose situation. Congratulations to all those connected to the making of this film for a job well done.

This is a fantastic film that deserves to be watched by everyone. This is a film that stays with you and you keep finding yourself thinking about it and the story. I went to watch the film at CIFF with some family and friends, and afterwards, we spent the next several hours continuing to talk about how it touched and impacted each of us.

I saw this film at CIFF where writer/director/producer, Sanjay Patel, was present and he spoke before and after the film. What a truly talented and amazing person. His passion really showed and you could really see how much thought and effort went into every detail.

Only a brilliant writer can combine humour with such a deep and meaningful story.

This film was my choice pick at the Calgary International Film Festival Saturday, and I must say, it was a well spent couple of hours. Of course, having a chance to meet the Director Sanjay Patel and a number of the crew made it extra special.

The cinematography was primo, capturing some of Alberta's best locations in their finest glory. All in all, a truly beautiful piece of cinema.

This story dares to address the issue of band and corporate greed, the meaty topic of oil and gas blackmail in a native community where they are slowly being poisoned and yet can't afford to leave, because where would they go? Just enough money to exist but not enough to thrive.

It's a story that deals with the issue of cultural disconnect in one of the most realistic and heart felt ways I've seen and I watch every indigenous themed movie as soon as I'm aware of it. The film is not only emotionally resonant but thought-provoking.

Director and writer Sanjay Patel has managed to craft a balance between moments of pathos and laughter that are natural and heartfelt. I actually got a bit teary eyed in a couple of scenes. It's a movie that must be seen.

The cast is about 98% Indigenous, made up of Canada's best, Adam Beach, Simon Baker, Carmen Moore, Graham Greene, Glen Gould, Nathaniel Arcand, Michelle Thrush, Tanya Beatty, and several others, many are finally in leading roles. They are so good that they are now regularly seconded by upcoming Hollywood projects. They provide a stellar performance keeping you captivated from start to finish. Every character feels authentic.

Indigenous or not you can identify fully with their journey through a story that leaves you pondering the issues long after exiting the theatre.

See this movie! It's a must-watch!

This is another Hollywood gem, but here's the twist-no Brad Pitt or Leo here.

It's all Indigenous actors. Yup, you read that right! How is it that we don't give Indigenous actors more opportunities to show their talent?

Well, Sanjay Patel, the writer and director of this film, did exactly that.

He crafted a beautiful Indigenous story and gave Indigenous actors the platform they deserve, and the result is nothing short of history in the making.

I won't say too much about the film, but I will say this: you must watch this gem.

And trust me, you're going to love everything about it-the story, the script, the acting, direction, songs, music, cinematography, locations, and tight editing. It's all top-notch. So, go watch it!

Adam Beach, Nathaniel Arcand, Graham Greene, and the rest of the Indigenous cast deliver some of their best performances.

This is a film you don't want to miss!

This film received a brilliant Red-Carpet screening at the Calgary International Film Festival A huge thank you to the sponsors and attendees for making this premiere a memorable evening, it truly lived up to the occasion.

The Birds Who Fear Death is an engaging Indigenous film that explores true to life issues with heart. The response of the audience to key moments of emotional depth, demonstrated the talents of the actors and director, keeping viewers fully vested in the storyline.

There were moments I could foresee but, it was clear that the plot unpredictability caught many by surprise. This added to the film's powerful impact. I found myself laughing, crying, and reflecting-three essential ingredients of cinematic excellence that make The Birds Who Fear Death a film worth recommending. You won't want to miss this experience!

I finally got to see "The Birds Who Fear Death" and review it, and it was a pretty cool ride. The movie follows two brothers who set off on a wild adventure deep in the Canadian wilderness. It mixes family drama with lots of down to earth humor and doesn't hold back on the real life messiness of family ties and finding your own identity. The backdrop/cast is amazing and Alberta's epic landscapes and genuine Indigenous vibes add a whole extra layer to the story. It's a chill, heartfelt movie that sticks with you. Definitely give it a watch if you're into stories that feel real and a bit offbeat.