Birdshot: A Microcosm of Today’s Society Anonymous 12th Grade

The Philippine Eagle or Haribon symbolizes bravery and strength. True enough, this specie can be found at the top of food chain on the basis of science. It can only be found in the Philippines and possesses unique characteristics that sets it apart to other birds. Because of this, it has been used as the symbol of the country. Significant attention has been directed to the preservation of this critically endangered specie. Moreover, different protective measures have been implemented to ensure their safety. Birdshot by Mikhail Red revolves around the Haribon, specifically the untimely death of one. Despite of my first impression that the movie would tackle the threats toward the Haribon, it dawned into my senses that it is more than a typical ecological eye-opener as the film progressed. In reality, it is a political film that makes us acknowledge the corruption that dwells within our society.

The movie centers on Maya, the daughter of a very pragmatic land caretaker named Diego who prioritized teaching his child the art of survival above anything else. In Maya’s pursuit to apply what she had learned, she unknowingly killed a Haribon which she later feasted upon with her father. Upon the report of the eagle’s death, two...