When Dreams Take Flight

When Dreams Take Flight is a feature-length documentary, directed by Kim Harris and Dermot Shane and released in 2011. This inspirational film centers on Todd Reichert, an accomplished Canadian PhD student and engineering graduate from the University of Toronto, with a vision unlike any other - to bring to life a technological wonder straight from the pages of mythology and history: a human-powered ornithopter.

The ornithopter is a machine designed to achieve flight by flapping its wings like a bird, a concept that dates back to the time of Da Vinci. It is the ancient dream of mimicking the birds - a dream that, before Dr. Reichert and his team set to work, remained a dream. This movie explores the journey of this audacious project from conception to realization, capturing the sheer determination, unwavering commitment and ingenious innovation involved in the endeavor.

The film takes its audience on an unforgettable journey that transcends the physical realm of engineering and delves into the human spirit. From early conceptual drawings and design iterations to meticulous crafting of individual components, the documentary follows Todd and his team as they tirelessly work towards their goal.

Todd Reichert represents the quintessential dream-chaser who believes in the power of human ingenuity. As an aero-structural engineer, he's an unlikely hero in a quest that has been the fantasy of humans for centuries. In the pursuit of this almost impossible dream, Reichert demonstrates a relentless aspiration to innovate, challenge the status quo, and redefine boundaries.

The multifaceted narrative of When Dreams Take Flight shifts between the highly focused technical process involved in designing and creating an ornithopter, and the human element that interweaves throughout - the human stories, emotions, and dreams that fuel the project. This is not just a movie about an engineering marvel in the making; it's a movie about personal journeys, individual growth, teamwork, dedication, and overcoming adversity.

Director Kim Harris and Dermot Shane vividly demonstrate that the process is just as important as the product. Through detailed interviews with the team and their mentor, a picture begins to shape of what propels these individuals to think differently, to challenge the impossible, to try and fail and try again. They shed light on the mentality and personality traits necessary to navigate the path less traveled, illuminating the true nature of innovation - that it is not a straight path but a winding road full of obstacles, setbacks and leaps of faith.

Not to be overlooked is the technical prowess showcased in the film. As you watch the detailed annotations and careful calculations the team performs, you gain a sense of the rigorous methodology followed in the design process. The filmmakers juxtapose these scenes with the humanity behind the project, the personal sacrifices each team member makes. Yet, despite the immense pressure and risks, they continue to chase their dreams, demonstrating a level of dedication that is truly inspiring.

When Dreams Take Flight tells a story that’s equally about adventure and the human journey, as about the marvels of technology and engineering. Through compelling storytelling, beautiful cinematography and an original score, the filmmaker presents a deeply humanizing look at the power of perseverance, hard work, and belief in one's dream.

The film’s exploration of the emotional and personal drive combined with the scientific and technological feats gives way to a powerful narrative that encourages you to believe that dreaming is the source of innovation. The inspirational 2011 documentary takes you on a journey of fascination, celebrating the triumph of human spirit over adversity.

In summary, When Dreams Take Flight is more than just a film about an ambitious engineering project; it's a timeless testament to the indomitable spirit of dreamers who dare to reach for the skies. The movie leaves you with a sense of wonderment, belief in the impossible, and perhaps a rekindled desire to pursue your own "impossible" dreams.