Billy & Molly: An Otter Love Story

"Billy & Molly: An Otter Love Story," is arguably one of the most life-affirming films of 2024. Think of the Academy Award-winning documentary, "My Octopus Teacher" (2020), except one of the principal characters is a cuddly female Otter.

In brief, Billy & Molly is a true story about a married, childless man, "Billy," and the beautiful bond he develops with a young recently orphaned Otter, whom he names, "Molly." Billy's love for Molly grows nearly exponentially as the film unfolds. Some might say Billy is overly obsessed with Molly. But I think it's far bigger than that.

Man and Nature have always shared a very dense and complex relationship, but Billy and Molly's connection is unusually pure and simple. Basically, Molly needs Billy to survive, yet, as their mutual trust develops, Billy suddenly discovers how much he actually needs Molly too. Their unique connection reflects a universal theme that surely will resonate with anyone who has a genuine respect and admiration for nature, and an understanding of our own important role as the default "Custodians of Planet Earth."

To quote Charlie Hamilton James, the brilliant director and director of photography, "We've got a happy story. My hope is that people walk out with a smile on their face, and they're enlightened in some way, and for a few brief moments in this current world, they can smile and be happy."

No spoilers here as usual, but I will reveal that Billy and Molly was filmed entirely in Scotland's Shetland Islands, and the striking cinematography is stunningly stark yet nakedly beautiful.

This lovingly shot documentary about a man who helps a young otter washed up on his boat ramp on Shetland Island is the most tranquil and beautiful movie experience I've ever had. Narrated by the couple who aided the otter, this film not only tells the story of two people and an adorable otter, it also showcases the stunning scenery of the Shetlands with superb cinematography. The score also deserves a mention.

Watching this movie was a beautiful experience. I could feel peace and calm descend over me as I watched the narrative of Billy and Molly unfold. In these turbulent times this is the balm, the respite I needed.

I love otters. LOVE them. So when my friend told me about this movie, I cleared my schedule and watched it that same night. It is such a heartwarming story - so beautifully shot, and beautifully told. I cry at anything involving animals and this was no exception - I cried for basically the whole last hour. Mostly happy tears, but still, just be warned that you might need tissues. The cinematography alone deserves an award, the landscapes are incredible and the scenes captured are truly breathtaking. I've never been to that part of Scotland but I immediately want to plan a trip there. If I happen to meet and fall in love with an otter, then so be it!

I have been an animal lover all my life, so when I saw the title I was immediately drawn to it. However, I was not expecting to be hit as hard as I was through this documentary.

I have had many interactions with animals in my life, as someone who has worked as a rescuer for cats and dogs. So I could understand right away what Billy felt, even though he did not have the right training or knowledge, I KNEW what he felt right away. I could relate to the love, the dread that comes with loving an animal. Caring for it. Your life starts revolving around it. The documentary showcases the relationship between them masterfully.

The cross between how you take care of a wild animal, and how much help you should really give them is a very complex question. This becomes a very important topic in the documentary as it goes on and in my opinion is a natural evolution any animal lover should have towards a semi-wild animal like this.

Give it a watch, it is adorable, emotional and lovely.

Billy & Molly: An Otter Love Story is a beautifully crafted film that captures the essence of love, loss, and the enduring bond between two creatures.

The cinematography is breathtaking, with slow-motion shots that showcase the serene beauty of their natural surroundings. The film's visuals are a feast for the eyes.

The story is both heartwarming and poignant, exploring themes of love, loss, and the importance of letting go. It serves as a reminder that all animals are beings deserving of our respect and compassion. We need to treat all creatures with kindness and understanding, regardless of their species.

Overall, Billy & Molly: An Otter Love Story is a beautifully shot and emotionally resonant film that will leave a lasting impression. It's a must-watch for animal lovers and those seeking a heartwarming tale of love and loss.