[Plugin: Benjamin Sterling Galleries] Error ” File_get_contents ” – Plugin not working

Hi,
I activated, entered my Flickr screen name, API key, left sets blank as it was optional, then went to Build a gallery with Flickr stream, basic setting, and this is the error I received, multiple times:

There seemed to be an error in the execution and most likely is because your server does not support “file_get_contents,” we will try an alternate method, please wait.

Nothing happened after several attempts and waiting. Not sure what it means that you will try an alternate method, either? Does that mean in future versions of the code or momentarily I will get another option? Please help.

Any help much appreciated,
Thanks so much,
Farnoosh

http://wordpress.org/extend/plugins/benjamin-sterling-galleries/