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Writer's pictureJake Brooks

Black Cockatoo Crisis (2022)

Updated: Jul 10, 2023





Director Jane Hammond's passion and social concern for Black Cockatoos in Western Australia's conservation lands is showcased through a 74-minute-deep dive into their world. Through the medium of captivating storytelling, Hammond aims to raise awareness about the challenges these birds face and the importance of protecting their habitats.

The documentary takes viewers on a journey, immersing them in the lives of Black Cockatoos and the ecosystems they inhabit. It explores the unique behaviors, mating rituals, and the vital role these birds play in maintaining the balance of the environment. Jane Hammond and Richard Todd' s tenacious wildlife cinematography work brings the beauty and urgency of the Black Cockatoos' conservation to life. Their dedication to capturing these remarkable creatures on film helps to convey the importance of protecting their habitats and encourages viewers to take action to safeguard the future of these iconic birds.


Through their expertise and artistic vision, Hammond and Todd bring the audience up close and personal with the Black Cockatoos. They skillfully navigate the challenges of capturing these elusive birds in their natural environments, patiently waiting for the perfect moments to unfold.


Worrisome stare of Black cockatoo, an "endangered species."


Janine Oxenham's vital role as the narrator adds a powerful dimension to the film's message, urging society to reevaluate our practices towards the ecosystem. With her commanding voice and persuasive tone, Oxenham skillfully guides viewers through the narrative, emphasizing the urgency and importance of addressing the crisis.


The director's decision to adopt an expert interview-driven story flow in this documentary may adhere to orthodox moviemaking limits, but it can be seen as a reasonable choice given the urgency of the real crisis imposed on nature by human actions. By including expert interviews, the film provides a credible and informative perspective on the Black Cockatoo crisis in the region.


The film successfully evokes a sense of empathy and connection with the Black Cockatoos, inspiring viewers to take action. It calls for a collective responsibility to conserve these birds and their habitats. Hammond's storytelling approach, combined with breathtaking cinematography and a compelling soundtrack, creates an emotional and thought-provoking experience that resonates with audiences.

Ultimately, the 74-minute documentary, directed by Jane Hammond, serves as a powerful tool to raise awareness, foster understanding, and mobilize support for the conservation of Black Cockatoos in Western Australia's conservation lands. It strives to ignite a sense of urgency and inspire individuals to make a positive impact in protecting these iconic birds and the fragile ecosystems they depend upon.


Urbanization! One of the imminent threats to coexistence.


About the Director

Jane Hammond is a lifelong environmental activist, an independent documentary

filmmaker, and a freelance journalist. She specializes in stories of environmental

justice, action on climate change, and social affairs. In 2012 she took redundancy

from The West Australian newspaper and went back to university to learn the art of filmmaking.

Jane's other films include Cry of the Forests (2020), A Crude Injustice (2017) and A Fractured State (2016). She is currently updating A Crude Injustice for re-release later this year as part of a renewed campaign for environmental justice for the people of West Timor following the 2009 Montara oil disaster.

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