Bird - Review (London Film Festival 2024)

Is It Too Real for You?

Review written by Jack Aling

Bird is written and directed by Andrea Arnold. Starring Nykiya Adams, Barry Keoghan & Franz Rogowski.

12-year-old Bailey lives with her single dad Bug and brother Hunter in a squat in North Kent. Bug doesn’t have much time for his kids, and Bailey, who is approaching puberty, seeks attention and adventure elsewhere.

Andrea Arnold's Bird is a peculiar coming of age story full of chaos and rage, following the disordered world of Nykiya Adams' Bailey.

Filmed on unpolished 16mm film that sets the stage for an authentic look at an abnormal way of life. Disorder is the norm in Bailey's life as she balances an eccentric family life while trying to decipher her identity. Barry Keoghan gives a solid performance as Bailey's father Bug but it's Franz Rogowski's performance that snuck up on me.

When Rogowski arrives as Bird, the social realism takes on a dreamlike edge bringing hope to an otherwise desperate situation. His childlike wonder helps to centre the film as the entrancing and mysterious guide amongst the darkness.

Arnold creates a hostile environment, guiding the audience right to the uncomfortable edge, before revealing that hope, kindness and humanity still exist, even if it seems too good to be true.

Our verdict: 3.5 out of 5 stars.

Bird arrives in UK Cinemas 8th November 2024.

Read more of Jack's reviews at: letterboxd.com/TheJackAling