I repeat what I mentioned just a few days ago: there are hundreds of new film releases every year, so it’s only natural that some movies – and their filmmakers – unfortunately slip through the cracks. Andrea Arnold (American Honey) has consistently found success at the Cannes Film Festival, winning the Jury Prize three times, yet Bird is my first experience with her storytelling style. The story follows 12-year-old Bailey (Nykiya Adams), who lives with her single father Bug (Barry Keoghan) and her brother Hunter (Jason Buda) in a poor neighborhood in North Kent. Bug doesn’t have much time for his children, and Bailey, on the brink of puberty, seeks attention and adventure elsewhere.
Bird presents itself as an intimate exploration of marginalized lives through the transformative arc of its protagonist, transitioning from childhood to adolescence. With a raw blend of reality and fantasy, Arnold draws us into an introspective narrative, focusing on personal resilience and the subtle ways of finding peace in fleeting moments of beauty and freedom, often seen through Bailey’s iPhone camera lens.
Through a naturalistic visual style and Robbie Ryan’s (Poor Things) handheld cinematography, Arnold brings the audience as close as possible to her characters, creating a profound sense of intimacy. However, this approach isn’t always efficient, occasionally feeling forced and repetitive. Bird momentarily loses itself in contemplative scenes that, though visually immersive, disrupt the narrative flow. For those who don’t feel a visceral connection with the protagonist, these scenes may come across as overly drawn-out.
The movie’s title and the character portrayed by Franz Rogowski (Passages), Bird, symbolize the themes Arnold seeks to explore, particularly the strength needed during childhood to escape harsh environments. The juxtaposition of reality and fantasy is odd yet captivating. Arnold’s unique vision culminates in the intriguing ambiguity of Rogowski’s character, leaving it open to multiple interpretations of what he represents for the protagonist.
On one hand, Bird may embody all of Bailey’s internal conflicts, from childhood innocence to the harsh reality of adolescence and puberty. Bailey’s daily life is marked by familial instability and a longing for belonging, so Bird could very well be a manifestation of her powerful emotions. On the other hand, the character might be seen as a literal guardian angel, offering the protection and guidance Bailey needs throughout the film. In the end, there are many theories, none seemingly more accurate than the others.
Bird also stands out due to its performances, particularly Adams. Her feature debut is truly impressive, delivering a performance far more mature than one might expect from a 12-year-old actress. The authenticity that radiates from her interactions with the characters throughout the movie is fascinating. Keoghan (Saltburn) continues his streak of excellent performances, demonstrating a remarkable commitment to the role of Bug.
Personally, I couldn’t form a strong connection with Bailey and her remarkably human arc, but I believe this may be due to finding the reality more compelling than the fantasy elements. Bird, inadvertently or not, turns its metaphorical character into a kind of mystery that, despite being clearly a vital symbol for understanding Bailey’s feelings, also becomes a distracting narrative device. That said, it’s a recommendable work that will create a strong, memorable connection with many viewers.
Final Thoughts on Bird
Bird is a raw, honest portrayal that, despite some pacing issues and a challenging blend of fantasy and reality, offers a deeply human experience elevated by Nykiya Adams’ impressively genuine performance. Andrea Arnold controls her original narrative with an intimate, sensitive lens on the struggles and inner conflicts of a young girl in transition, highlighting both the complexities of adolescence and the fragile beauty of childhood innocence. For those who find themselves captivated by Bailey’s introspection and vulnerability, Bird will undoubtedly be a poignant, lasting story.
Rating: B-
Bird is now playing in theaters.
Learn more about the film, including how to buy tickets, at the official website for the title.
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