Bird

“Bird“ was one of my most anticipated movies of 2024, but it turned out to be a disappointing letdown. Don’t get me wrong - there’s a lot to admire. Kerry Kohagan delivers one of his best performances, Franz Rogowski is phenomenal as always, and the newcomer Nykiya Adams gives a moving performance.

The cinematography is stunning, and Andrea Arnold once again proves her talent for crafting visually arresting films. Yet, despite all of this, the movie felt like a retread of familiar ground, offering nothing new to the well-worn theme of lost kids in suburban malaise - this time set in North Kent, UK.

Andrea Arnold’s “Bird “is a visually captivating but ultimately aimless exploration of adolescence. It evokes a raw, dream-like quality reminiscent of movies such as Gummo (Harmony Korine), Kids, or Ken Park (Larry Clark), creating a world that feels both strangely familiar and alien.

The narrative orbits around a 12-year-old girl on the cusp of puberty, navigating the complexities of growing up without a female role model.

Surrounded by aimless boys grappling with their own identities, the film captures the fragmented, chaotic energy of suburban British life. Arnold leans heavily into visual storytelling, favouring moody imagery and vibey sequences over a structured plot, which works both as a strength and a limitation.

Despite its striking visuals and haunting tone, “Bird” struggles to sustain its nearly two-hour runtime, often falling into repetitive patterns that undercut its emotional weight. The lack of narrative progression makes the film feel less like a piece of social realism and more like a fragmented reverie.

The unexpected and shocking plot twist leaves room for imagination and multiple interpretations, compelling you to hit rewind and experience the story from the beginning. Andrea’s clever direction makes the film a captivating metaphor for human nature and personal evolution.

While undeniably beautiful in moments, “Bird” ultimately rehashes familiar themes without adding meaningful depth. It’s an evocative cinematic experience, but one that lingers too long and offers too little beneath its stunning surface.