Dickens & Rumi
Cover of For the Birds

film

For the Birds

2001

One by one, a flock of small birds perches on a telephone wire. Sitting close together has problems enough, and then comes along a large dopey bird that tries to join them. The birds of a feather can't help but make fun of him - and their clique mentality proves embarrassing in the end.

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At a glance

Recommended ageNot listed

Strongest cautions

  • Violence2/5
  • Frightening scenes1/5

Strongest positives

  • Positive messages3/5
  • Creativity & curiosity2/5
  • Good role models2/5

What’s in it?

Frightening scenes1/5
Why this rating?

The birds face brief peril when the powerline snaps and launches them, but the action is comic and nobody is harmed.

Violence2/5
Why this rating?

Small birds peck the larger bird and his toes, causing a comic chain reaction that flings them away. No serious injury is shown.

What’s good in it?

Courage & resilience1/5
Why this rating?

The birds act boldly and recklessly, but the story does not develop principled bravery or overcoming fear as a central idea.

Creativity & curiosity2/5
Why this rating?

Distinctive bird designs, expressive visual storytelling, and inventive slapstick use of the powerline can spark imaginative play and discussion.

Kindness & empathy2/5
Why this rating?

Kindness is initially lacking, but the larger bird offers a leaf to cover a displaced featherless bird, contrasting with the flock's mockery.

Positive messages3/5
Why this rating?

The story discourages mocking and bullying by giving the small birds a comic consequence, while showing the larger bird as comparatively kind.

Good role models2/5
Why this rating?

The birds behave cruelly and impulsively, though the larger bird responds with friendliness. The reversal offers a simple corrective lesson.

Family discussion

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Conversation starters based on this title’s published content notes.

  1. What message do you think the story most wants you to remember?
  2. How did the story handle conflict or violence? Did the characters have other choices?
  3. Which choice in For the Birds would you have made differently, and why?
  4. Who changed the most in For the Birds, and what caused that change?
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