A beautiful story based on real events about a boy who saved three pelicans whose mother had been killed by hunters. A film about how friendship with animals—and especially caring for them—combined with his father’s love, helped him grow into a mature and contented adult. A film about how important it is not to harbor resentment, which can result in lifelong emotional scars.

Michael Kingley is now retired; he has handed over the company’s management to his son-in-law, Malcolm Downer, and now serves only as a member of the board of directors. His granddaughter, Madeline, struggles with her father’s excessive involvement in the family business and, like a typical neglected teenager, rebels against him.

During a meeting with his granddaughter, her grandfather Michael decides to spend some time with her and begins telling her the story of his childhood and youth. One of his motivations is the fact that, as a child, he too developed a hostile attitude toward his own father during a certain period—something he deeply regrets today. He doesn’t want his granddaughter to have to go through a similar mistake.

Michael talks about his childhood, the loss of his mother and sister, but especially about how, through saving three pelicans, he found fulfillment and a great friendship during his childhood. The film depicts several powerful and moving moments from Michael’s childhood and reveals that even initial tragic events can lead to positive outcomes and salvation for many.

Drama / Family

Australia, 2019, 99 min

Crew: Shawn Seet;

Music: Alan John;

Cast: Finn Little, Geoffrey Rush, Jai Courtney, David Gulpilil, Erik Thomson, Morgan Davies, Chantal Contouri, Thibul Nettle, Alirio Zavarce;

Parents Guide

A girl wearing a short skirt.

Several instances of hunters shooting birds, including the killing of Michael’s favorite pelican.

Crossing oneself, saying “Jesus” or “damn.” Several instances of a superstitious Aboriginal man and two instances of pouring sand during an Aboriginal ritual honoring the land. One instance of saying “I swear to God.”

A few instances of pouring and drinking alcohol.

At the beginning of the film, some slightly exaggerated eco-alarmism on the part of young Madeline. Disrespectful behavior toward her grandfather and directed at her father, including one instance of saying “I hate him.”

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