Friday, July 17 — 7pm at the Lopez Library
2025 FHFF Audience Choice WINNER – Best “Things to Consider” Feature Film
Dive into the fascinating tale of a woman raised in a cult, whose journey of healing through teaching her parrot to read reshapes our understanding of interspecies communication.
In veteran investigative journalist and producer Amy Herdy’s directorial debut, Parrot Kindergarten features the groundbreaking work of Jennifer Taylor O’Connor and her Goffin’s cockatoo, Ellie, who learns to communicate by reading flashcards and responding to questions. The film follows the evolution of their relationship and Jennifer’s efforts to have Ellie scientifically recognized as being able to intentionally communicate. This journey in interspecies communication, highlighting Ellie’s ability to read, draw, and use technology to express her needs and emotions, demonstrates that animals possess deep emotional lives and communication skills, inspiring viewers to rethink their understanding of animal intelligence and sentience.
Learn more on the film’s website here: https://parrotkindergarten.com/
This film will be screened at the Lopez Library.
Brought to you by:
- Friday Harbor Film Festival
- Lopez Island Library