Watch Birdmen: The Original Dream of Flight

Birdmen: The Original Dream of Flight is a 2018 documentary film that explores the history of human flight and the evolution of the dream of flying like a bird. The film is directed by Matt Sheridan and stars a group of individuals who are passionate about flying, including hang glider pilots, paraglider pilots, and BASE jumpers. The movie begins by taking the viewer to the birthplace of human flight, the cliffs of the French Alps. It is here that the earliest flight attempts were made with various flying contraptions, and the dream of flight was first born. The film then travels forward in time, exploring the history of flight and the various pioneers who played a role in the development of aviation.

The documentary features interviews with many of the world's top hang glider pilots and paraglider pilots, who explain the thrill and freedom of flying. They speak about the physical sensations that come with flying, such as the feeling of the wind rushing past their faces, the sound of the wind in their ears, and the sheer exhilaration of soaring through the air.

Throughout the film, we are shown footage of these pilots in action, flying at high speeds through the air, performing acrobatic stunts, and simply enjoying the freedom that comes with flying like a bird. The film also examines the risks associated with the sport, such as the possibility of crashing or getting caught in dangerous weather conditions.

One of the most interesting aspects of the film is its exploration of the spiritual side of flying. The pilots interviewed in the film speak about the deep connection they feel with nature while flying, and describe the almost meditative state that they enter when aloft. They talk about the sense of peace and freedom that comes with flying and how it allows them to escape the stresses and worries of everyday life. In fact, many of the pilots in the film view flying as a way of life rather than just a sport or hobby.

As the film progresses, we are introduced to a group of BASE jumpers, who take the concept of human flight to another level. BASE jumping is a sport that involves jumping off tall structures such as buildings, bridges, and cliffs, and then deploying a parachute to land safely on the ground. BASE jumpers are essentially flying through the air, albeit for a brief moment, before opening their chutes and floating gently to the ground.

The film showcases some breathtaking footage of BASE jumping, including jumps off tall buildings and cliffs in New York City, Norway, and other locations around the world. The BASE jumpers interviewed in the film speak about the rush of adrenaline they feel as they hurl themselves off a tall structure and the pure exhilaration of flying through the air.

The film ends with a return to the French Alps and a final homage to the pioneers of human flight. It is a fitting conclusion to the film, as it highlights the enduring dream of flight that has captivated humans for centuries.

Overall, Birdmen: The Original Dream of Flight is a visually stunning and emotionally engaging documentary that explores the beauty, risks, and spirituality of human flight. The film effectively captures the sense of freedom and joy that comes with flying like a bird, and does an excellent job of showcasing the courage and ingenuity of those who have pursued this dream throughout history.

Birdmen: The Original Dream of Flight is a 2012 documentary with a runtime of 52 minutes.