The Old Lady and the Pigeons 1997
In Sylvain Chomet's whimsical short film "The Old Lady and the Pigeons" (1997), a desperate gendarme finds himself on the verge of starvation, scavenging scraps from oblivious American tourists.
Director: Sylvain Chomet
Cast
Frequently Asked Questions
What is The Old Lady and the Pigeons (1997) about?
This animated short follows a struggling gendarme who resorts to desperate measures to survive in Paris, ultimately disguising himself as a pigeon to sneak food from an elderly woman. The film blends dark humor with touching themes of survival and human connection.
Who directed The Old Lady and the Pigeons?
The film was directed by Sylvain Chomet, the acclaimed animator behind the Oscar-nominated feature "The Triplets of Belleville."
Who stars in The Old Lady and the Pigeons?
The short features voice actors James Pidgeon, Michoue Sylvain, and Andrea Usher-Jones in key roles.
Is The Old Lady and the Pigeons (1997) worth watching?
While it's a short film, its unique blend of humor and social commentary makes it a memorable watch. The animation style and storytelling are clever and engaging, though its brevity may not appeal to everyone.
How long is The Old Lady and the Pigeons?
The film has a runtime of 25 minutes.
About The Old Lady and the Pigeons (1997) — A Starving Cop, Pigeon Suits, and Parisian Whimsy
In Sylvain Chomet's whimsical short film "The Old Lady and the Pigeons" (1997), a desperate gendarme finds himself on the verge of starvation, scavenging scraps from oblivious American tourists. His luck changes when he spots an elderly woman sharing bread with a flock of pigeons in a Parisian park. In a moment of absurd inspiration, he devises a plan as unconventional as it is hilarious—donning a pigeon costume to blend in and share in the feast.
This 25-minute animated comedy blends surreal humor with poignant social commentary, painting a vivid picture of urban loneliness and the lengths people go to satisfy basic needs. Chomet's signature visual storytelling shines through exaggerated character designs and a vibrant, almost dreamlike Paris backdrop, creating an atmosphere that's equal parts charming and melancholic. The film's quirky premise and clever execution make it a standout in the world of short animation.