Chicken People

Director Nicole Lucas Haimes ("Cracking the Code") submitted this documentary from the US to the 2016 Seattle International Film Festival. It introduces us to the breeders and hobbyists who dedicate a significant portion of their lives to competitive poultry breeding. You will see some amazing specimens! (Both human and fowl.)

These folks have chickens vying for Best of Show:

• Brian Caraker - this entertainer works at Branson, MO, but his heart is back home with his chickens. His parents do their best, but these are HIS chickens!
• Brian Knox - here is a race car mechanic who was directed to poultry breeding when he was 11 years old. Decades later, he still loves it and is still in touch with his mentor. His approach to improving the breeds is as meticulous as his mechanics.
• Shari McCollough - this former alcoholic has switched her compulsive-addictive tendencies from alcohol to chickens. Now she is sober, happy, and competing with the best! Watch her shampoo and fluff her chickens! You almost forget how they must smell.

Scheduled for the Ohio National Poultry Competition, the largest poultry competition in the country; it is likened to the Westminster Kennel Club Dog Show. There will be 9,700 birds representing 154 breeds. We see how the breeders use cosmetics, hair spray and unusual grooming techniques for a chance to win.

By the way, an outbreak of Bird Flu caused a change of venue for the 2015 show, but our three principals made it to the new location.