The documentary follows Manon, a 10-year-old girl from Switzerland who is deeply fascinated by the environment and the animals that inhabit it. Bats in particular are of special interest to Manon, which leads her down a path of discovery as she encounters people who possess a deep understanding of these mammals -- from bat experts to homeowners living with bats. Following the enriching experience, Manon aids her friends in overcoming their fear of bats by sharing her newfound knowledge.
This film is relatable at its core as Manon, much like most children, is interested in a topic that she is eager to learn more about. On top of that, her friends' irrational fear of bats is something that both adults and children share. The documentary provides a general overview of bats and the role they play in our lives. The camerawork is almost cinematic, from the masterful usage of camera focus to draw the audience's attention to specific people, to the brilliant overhead shots of Swiss forests that put the beauty of nature on full display. The film's focus on bats is steeped in the nuanced views of the people Manon gains knowledge from and, unlike the general public, depicts them in a positive manner. Highlights include pointing out the dangers being posed to bats such as artificial light, pesticides, and lack of insects which makes the viewer garner sympathy for them, in addition to showing how harmless they really are. When supplemented by other interesting facts such as their echolocation abilities, the film succeeds in leaving the viewer with a far better impression of bats than they most likely had before.
My favorite part is the aftermath of Manon's bat presentation, when many of her friends state how it helped them get over their fear of bats. Not only does it go to show how important broadening one's knowledge is, but also demonstrates how much Manon values her community.
The film's message is to not judge that that you lack understanding of.
I give Draw Me A Bat 4.5 out of 5 stars and recommend it for ages 8 to 12. By Christian C., KIDS FIRST!
The documentary follows Manon, a 10-year-old girl from Switzerland who is deeply fascinated by the environment and the animals that inhabit it. Bats in particular are of special interest to Manon, which leads her down a path of discovery as she encounters people who possess a deep understanding of these mammals -- from bat experts to homeowners living with bats. Following the enriching experience, Manon aids her friends in overcoming their fear of bats by sharing her newfound knowledge.
This film is relatable at its core as Manon, much like most children, is interested in a topic that she is eager to learn more about. On top of that, her friends' irrational fear of bats is something that both adults and children share. The documentary provides a general overview of bats and the role they play in our lives. The camerawork is almost cinematic, from the masterful usage of camera focus to draw the audience's attention to specific people, to the brilliant overhead shots of Swiss forests that put the beauty of nature on full display. The film's focus on bats is steeped in the nuanced views of the people Manon gains knowledge from and, unlike the general public, depicts them in a positive manner. Highlights include pointing out the dangers being posed to bats such as artificial light, pesticides, and lack of insects which makes the viewer garner sympathy for them, in addition to showing how harmless they really are. When supplemented by other interesting facts such as their echolocation abilities, the film succeeds in leaving the viewer with a far better impression of bats than they most likely had before.
My favorite part is the aftermath of Manon's bat presentation, when many of her friends state how it helped them get over their fear of bats. Not only does it go to show how important broadening one's knowledge is, but also demonstrates how much Manon values her community.
The film's message is to not judge that that you lack understanding of.
I give Draw Me A Bat 4.5 out of 5 stars and recommend it for ages 8 to 12. By Christian C., KIDS FIRST!
KIDS FIRST! Goes Local: Submit a review & win!
