The Pollinators 2019
Distributed by Collective Eye Films, 1315 SE 20th Ave. #3, Portland OR 97214; 971-236-2056
Produced by Peter Nelson, Michael Reuter, and Sally Roy
Directed by Peter Nelson
Streaming, 92 mins
College - General Adult
Agriculture; Ecology
Date Entered: 06/02/2020
Reviewed by Sarah Siddiqui, Science & Engineering Outreach Librarian, University of RochesterThe documentary film, The Pollinators, gives an informative insight into the journey of bees around the United States and the challenges they face. Through the perspectives of beekeepers, farmers, environmentalists and entomologists, we learn about the vital role of bees in pollination. As stated in the beginning of the film, “One in three bites of food we put in our mouths comes from honeybee pollination.” While this can be expected, the time-sensitivity of the pollination process can be a surprise.
The film shows the migration of beekeepers across farms, starting from almond farms in California to apples, cherries and more in New York and beyond. The bees are transported across states in large trucks and the road trips are a significant part of beekeepers’ lives. The second half of the documentary dives into the serious difficulties faced by farmers. In spite of their crucial role, the population of bees has been dwindling because of the changes in agricultural practices. The demand for similar quality produce all year long not only puts an extra strain on farmers to use pesticides that are toxic for bees, but the resulting lack of diversity in crops has severe repercussions on the soil and ultimately the climate. The legal regulations do not seem to offer any support either and there is a strong need for developing guidelines regarding bees.
Despite the issues, the end is at a hopeful note about increasing awareness among people to moving towards sustainable options and beekeeping in cities at personal levels. There is an advice to consumers to think about the source of their food.
There are certain areas where subtitles will be helpful. Although slightly long, The Pollinators is a fascinating film with many viewpoints and recommended to watch, particularly for courses relating to agriculture, sustainability, environmental studies, entomology, ecology as well as ethics.
Awards:
Winner of Excellence in Environmental Filmmaking at DOCFEST Film Festival; Winner of 2019 Audience Awards at Newport Beach Festival Films; Winner of Rob Stewart Eco Warrior Award at the Vancouver International Film Festival; Winner of Gaia Prize for Environmental Filmmaking at the Middlebury New Filmmakers Festival; Winner of Best Feature Length Documentary at the Germinate International Film Festival