On DVD: Flock of Dodos: The Evolution-Intelligent Design Circus

Directed by Randy Olson

Starring: Dr. David Bottjer, Michael Behe, Jack Cashill

“My theory of evolution is that Darwin was adopted.”

                                                                Steven Wright

If you are tired of the depths of stupidity Wife Swap and Singing Bee bring to the average television viewer, and you are looking for something intellectually stimulating, Flock of Dodos: the Evolution-Intelligent Design Circus is just the ticket. This film was recently released on DVD by Docurama.

The Movie

Flock of Dodos is a documentary about the ongoing debate between the believers of evolution and the believers of intelligent design, or that the universe and all inhabitants were created by God, or the higher power that you believe in based upon your individual belief system.

The filmmaker, Randy Olson, is no slouch on the subject. He is a Harvard-educated evolutionary biologist. He makes some great points, whether you are on “his side” or not.

And, he approaches the subject with a refreshing open mind, receptive to the opinions and beliefs of the other side.

Olson’s home state is Kansas, which is where he chooses to begin the film. Recently, two school boards debated keeping the teaching of intelligent design in the classrooms. He is kept up to date on the situation by his mother, Muffy. Muffy is a one of a kind character that brings a lot of levity and humor to the situation and Olson was wise to include her, nepotism apart.

Olson also decides to not only show the different beliefs and opinions of each side, but how each side is viewed on a public relations front. He acknowledges and has fun with the fact that the intelligent design believers come across as much more charismatic and warm, rather than the evolutionist that seem opinionated, cold and gloomy.

A somewhat lighthearted approach to this emotional debate is appreciated. It serves Olson’s endeavor to make this emotionally wrought subject easy and appealing to discuss and consider. Just like the old saying: “A spoonful of sugar helps the medicine go down”. However, on occasion, Olson takes the lighthearted approach a little too literally. His pie charts being actual pies, animations and corny banjo music can be a bit too much and take away from the overall seriousness and complexity of the subject.

All things considered, Flock of Dodos: the Evolution-Intelligent Design Circus makes for an intellectually refreshing night of entertainment. Die hard documentary fans and casual viewers alike can enjoy this film. So, turn off the drivel on the boob tube and expand your mind, film fans.

7/10

The Video

 Flock of Dodos: the Evolution-Intelligent Design Circus is presented in the original full frame aspect ratio. This is a respectable presentation of a documentary film. So, adjust your expectations accordingly.

7/10

The Audio

 Flock of Dodos: the Evolution-Intelligent Design Circus is presented in Dolby Digital 2.0 stereo. The dialogue is clear and easily understood throughout. This will not give your sound system a workout, but suits the film presented just fine.

6/10

The Packaging and Bonus Features

Flock of Dodos: the Evolution-Intelligent Design Circus is presented in a standard amaray case with artwork that suits the tone of the film.

A plethora of bonus features accompany this release. Top Ten Questions has various experts on both sides answering common questions.

Not only that, but there are Deleted Scenes, animation outtakes, and panel discussion highlights. If that wasn’t enough, Shared Visions: A Comic Debate, Pulled Punches: Controversial Content and a filmmaker biography is also offered.

Rounding things out are some entertaining Howard Hughes Medical Institute clips. Over 90 minutes of bonus material is offered and that is nothing to sneeze at.

9/10

Overall (Not an Average) 7.5/10

The Review

The Movie 7/10

The Video 7/10

The Audio 6/10

The Packaging and Bonus Features 9/10

Overall (Not an Average) 7.5/10

-Suzie Lackey