Keywords: Pecking Order, Slavko Martinov, poultry showing, New Zealand, Kiwiana, tradition, passion, rivalry, humor, documentary. Three Words Summary: Passionate, quirky, feathered
Introduction
"Pecking Order" is a charming documentary directed by Slavko Martinov and released in 2017. It offers a delightful glimpse into the world of the Christchurch Poultry, Bantam and Pigeon Club, a 148-year-old institution in New Zealand, as its diverse members prepare for the National Show. This quirky slice of Kiwiana isn't just about poultry shows; it's a story of passion, rivalry, and tradition in a fast-paced modern world.
Synopsis
"Pecking Order" follows the eclectic, passionate members of the Christchurch Poultry, Bantam and Pigeon Club as they gear up for the New Zealand National Show. As the competition approaches, tensions run high, rivalries intensify, and feathers are ruffled in the race for glory.
More Film Analysis
Analysis
Martinov's documentary is largely observational, offering viewers a front-row seat to the drama, dedication, and occasional absurdity of the poultry showing world. The film is well-researched and explores its unique subject matter with depth and humor, effectively presenting it in an engaging style that both informs and entertains.
Historical and Factual Context
The Christchurch Poultry, Bantam and Pigeon Club has been a staple of New Zealand's cultural fabric since 1870. It's one of the oldest clubs of its kind in the world, reflecting the country's strong agricultural roots and love for eccentric hobbies.
Key themes in the film
- The importance of tradition and community in a rapidly changing world
- Passion and dedication as motivating forces
- The universal human desire for recognition and success
Film Comparisons
Unlike other animal-focused documentaries on iWonder, "Pecking Order" isn't just about the animals; it's about the people who love them. Its unique blend of humour, heart, and henhouse politics sets it apart.
Noteworthy Moments
The intense competition and dramatic build-up to the National Show reveal the surprisingly high stakes of poultry showing, making for captivating viewing.
Reviews
"Pecking Order" has been warmly received by audiences and critics alike, with IMDb users giving it a solid score of 7 out of 10.
Conclusion
"Pecking Order" is a delightful, heartwarming documentary that offers a unique glimpse into a world few know about. It's a film for anyone who appreciates quirky hobbies, passionate people, and feathery underdogs.
More film information:
FILM SUMMARY
- IMDb Score: 7
- Awards: 1 win & 5 nominations
PERSONALITIES
- The dedicated members of the Christchurch Poultry, Bantam and Pigeon Club
- The various breeds of chickens, bantams, and pigeons featured in the film
LOCATIONS
- Christchurch, New Zealand
- The NZ National Show venue
Key Questions Raised by the Film
- How do hobbies and passions shape our lives and communities?
- What role does tradition play in our fast-paced modern world?
Links for Further Exploration
- The Christchurch Poultry, Bantam and Pigeon Club's official website: https://www.cinch.org.nz/categories/a-z/b/81/entries
- 150th anniversary of the Club: https://www.odt.co.nz/business/farming/keeping-chooks-city-something-crow-about
I wonder what the film would be in another art form
- A famous book, it would be "The Secret Life of Bees" - a heartwarming, often humorous look at a unique, closely-knit community.
- A famous song, it would be "I Will Survive" - a testament to resilience, passion, and the fight for glory.
- A famous piece of art, it would be Grant Wood's "American Gothic" - a celebration of rural life and tradition.
- A famous celebrity, it would be Bill Nye - quirky, educational, and beloved by all.
- A colour, it would be the warm, earthy brown of a chicken's feathers - symbolic of the film's agricultural theme.
- A music style, it would be folk - a genre that, like the film, celebrates community, tradition, and storytelling.