Watch Pigeon Kings

Pigeon Kings is a captivating and inspiring documentary that follows the lives of several individuals who participate in the competitive world of pigeon racing. The film, which was released in 2020, showcases the dedication, passion, and sheer love that these individuals have for their birds, and for the sport. Directed by Milena Pastreich and Wout Conijn, the film is set in South Central Los Angeles and centers around the community of pigeon fanciers that reside there. One of the main characters is Keith London, a charismatic and affable man who is considered one of the top pigeon breeders in the area. Through Keith's story, the film explores the history of pigeon racing and how it has been passed down through generations in his family.

Darrian Hogg is another central figure in the film, a young man who has recently gotten into the sport but quickly becomes enamored with it. Growing up in the neighborhood, Darrian was exposed to the pigeons but never considered racing them until a friend introduced him to the sport. He quickly realizes that pigeon racing is more than just a hobby, it's a way of life.

The film introduces us to a host of other intriguing characters in the community, including Melvin Cooper, a wise and respected elder who has been racing pigeons for over five decades, and Eamon Kelly, a British expat who moved to Los Angeles to escape the dreary English weather and fell in love with pigeon racing. These men, and others like them, are the backbone of the sport in South Central LA, and they share a bond that goes beyond their love of pigeons.

One of the most interesting aspects of the film is the way in which it showcases the unique relationship between the pigeon fanciers and their birds. For many of these men (and occasionally women), the birds are more than just pets or animals to be raced; they are companions and equals that are treated with respect and affection. They are trained meticulously and cared for lovingly, with their owners showing an almost parental pride in their birds' accomplishments.

Pigeon Kings is also a film about rising above adversity. The community in South Central LA faces many challenges, from poverty and violence to systemic racism and discrimination. Yet, through their shared love of pigeon racing, these men find a way to rise above their circumstances and attain a sense of purpose and accomplishment. They may not have much, but their birds give them something to be proud of, and a reason to wake up in the morning.

The film is shot beautifully, with the camera capturing the stunning, sweeping vistas of downtown LA as well as the intimate, personal moments between the fanciers and their birds. The filmmakers clearly have a deep respect and admiration for their subjects, and their love for the sport shines through in every frame.

In conclusion, Pigeon Kings is a heartwarming, inspiring, and ultimately uplifting documentary about the joy that can be found in unexpected places. Whether you are a pigeon fancier yourself or know nothing about the sport, this film is well worth watching. It will leave you with a newfound appreciation for the bond between humans and animals, and for the resilience and determination of those who refuse to let their circumstances define them.

Pigeon Kings is a 2020 documentary with a runtime of 1 hour and 20 minutes. It has received mostly positive reviews from critics and viewers, who have given it an IMDb score of 7.0.