In the Company of Wild Butterflies 2005
Distributed by Bullfrog Films, PO Box 149, Oley, PA 19547; 800-543-FROG (3764)
Produced by Bill Levinson
Director n/a
VHS, color, 45 min.
Jr. High - Adult
Biology, Environmental Studies, Science
Date Entered: 11/13/2006
Reviewed by Barbara Butler, University of Oregon Institute of Marine BiologyIn the Company of Wild Butterflies is a joy to watch and exceptionally informative. The subtitle is an apt description: An intimate study of the secret lives of wild butterflies.
The film is divided into several chapters and offers a close up look at butterfly morphology, physiology and reproduction. An incredible amount of detail is presented, complete with technical terms for each butterfly lifecycle stage, and yet the tone is appropriate for a wide range of audiences. It is easy to see why this film was noticed at the International Wildlife Film Festival, and why it received Honorable Mention at the Chris Awards. The close-up images of butterfly lifecycle transitions are stunning, and the film received an Honorable Mention for microphotography at the Montana Cine International Film Festival as well. Viewers will learn how to develop butterfly-friendly gardens and about the environmental challenges faced by wild butterfly populations. The Bullfrog website includes a link to study guide materials focusing on Monarch Butterflies. Highly recommended for all age groups.