THE MILLION DOLLAR DUCK REVIEWED
“The Million Dollar Duck” is a stunning documentary that examines the only federally ran juried art competition in America. The documentary follows six artists that enter the contest trying to make their name. However, the real heart of the material lays in the history behind the competition. Originally began in 1949, the contest is an effort to raise funds to maintain wildlife standards throughout America. Hell, you even hear from hunters who raise money to keep the efforts afloat.
The documentary delves into artist portraits a bit too much. While some of the artists feel like cut characters from a Christopher Guest movie, everyone seems a little too authentic. By that, I mean that everyone is so focused on their art that they lack any major personalities. The film is prepping to make its Animal Planet debut in less than two weeks, but curious viewers can find it on Digital HD currently. I enjoy that Lionsgate is taking an interest in these off-kilter documentaries. Maybe the A24 influence is rubbing off on the larger studio? Amazing work all around and well worth a weekend viewing.
FILM STATS
- 1hr 11mins
- Not Rated
- Lionsgate