, directed by Matthew Aeberhard and Leander Ward, on UK release from 25 September
LIKE a phoenix rising from the flames, the lesser flamingo is born amid salt and ash in one of Earth鈥檚 least hospitable environments, Lake Natron in northern Tanzania. It is an image that The Crimson Wing鈥榮 directors play heavily upon in this film, painting the flamingo as a survivor against the odds.
Clearly looking to emulate the 2005 film March of the Penguins, this Disney nature documentary follows the life cycle of the lesser flamingo. Although it gives no new scientific insights, it has some mesmerising footage of courtship rituals and a beautiful soundtrack. At times it takes on a dream-like quality, like a big pink ballet on roller skates. The film is unlikely to attract the same plaudits from the religious right that March of the Penguins did, but Disney still seems to be providing a lesson for these desolate times. By pulling together and working as a team, life can triumph over adversity.
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