Through the intense narration of Frank DeKova, the story of young native Tutavina is documented, a predictable but touching drama about the young eagle he protects and saves from being utilized as a religious sacrifice, accused of betraying his tribe and basically made an outcast. The jealousies of the other boys and their violent stoning attempt as he leaves adds to the sadness of the story, and the "real life true story" extended short from Disney truly becomes an amazing account of the determination to survive under the worst of odds. The cleverness of young Tutavina is shown several times, a glimpse into the determination he has to make it through those days when he is starving, walking through the dangerous beauty of the desert sun, at one point walking by a giant slab of rock that looks like a dark phantom staring down on him.
These four reel Disney additions to their matinee lineups were staples of movie theaters for decades, beautifully filmed and often just as good (or even better) than the feature. There's no time for silliness in these docudramas, and yet, there's time for sentiment as documented when the eagle finds the ailing boy just as a vulture begins stalking him. You can see why people often can find the power of God through the actions of wild animals and that makes this touching, especially when the eagle subtly teaches Tutavina how to hunt. The background is breathtaking, giving the impression that they were filming in the Grand Canyon, with shots of other wild life including some adorable wolf cubs that Tutavina encounters before their mother shows up, once again protected by the mighty majestic eagle. The young actor playing Tutavina never speaks, but he has charm for sure. Definitely worth a search for its timeless tale!
These four reel Disney additions to their matinee lineups were staples of movie theaters for decades, beautifully filmed and often just as good (or even better) than the feature. There's no time for silliness in these docudramas, and yet, there's time for sentiment as documented when the eagle finds the ailing boy just as a vulture begins stalking him. You can see why people often can find the power of God through the actions of wild animals and that makes this touching, especially when the eagle subtly teaches Tutavina how to hunt. The background is breathtaking, giving the impression that they were filming in the Grand Canyon, with shots of other wild life including some adorable wolf cubs that Tutavina encounters before their mother shows up, once again protected by the mighty majestic eagle. The young actor playing Tutavina never speaks, but he has charm for sure. Definitely worth a search for its timeless tale!
