Bird: On the red carpet with Nykiya Adams, Jason Buda, James Nelson-Joyce and Frankie Box at London Film Festival 2024

The Upcoming hit the red carpet during London Film Festival for the premiere of Bird, Andrea Arnold’s first fiction movie since 2016, after a foray into TV with Big Little Lies season two and documentary with Cow, which proves once again why she is one of this country’s foremost filmmakers.

While it may not have taken this writer to quite the exalted heights reached by Fishtank and pitch-perfect American Honey, it’s bursting with life as it’s lived, in all its chaos and joy, pain and beauty. New-to-screen Nykiya Adams’s knockout performance as 12-year-old Bailey anchors the film, and it’s through her eyes we see the universe she inhabits in. Filled with the usual trials and tribulations of coming-of-age, compounded by the world-rocking news her young father Bug (a gloriously kinetic, tattooed Barry Keoghan) is marrying his girlfriend, and the ongoing tyranny her mother (a scene-stealing Jasmine Jobson) and half siblings suffer at the hands of her hideously aggressive boyfriend (an unnervingly convincing James Nelson-Joyce), we follow her as she seeks solace in nature and finds connection in an expected meeting with a strange, childlike man, Bird (an especially quirky Franz Rogowski).

As is Arnold’s signature style, there’s no shying away from the gritty realites of working-class life, infused with the authenticity only possible from someone who’s experienced it, showing both its shades of darkness, deprivation and violence but also community, laughter and resilience. What puts Bird into a slightly different register are the splashes of the surreal and magical that surface from seeing the story unfold through the lens of Bailey. And hard-to-watch moments make those moments of tenderness stand out all the more, not least the scenes with Adams and Jason Buda with Keoghan, their father-child relationships being more akin to sibling than adult ones: you can’t help but take away that, despite any failings, love can always prevail. And the music is sublime: listen out for a one needle drop that’s particularly genius.

Chatting with the stars, Adams opened up about her deep connection with her character, highlighting the parallels in their rebellious natures, and praised director Arnold’s unique approach to filmmaking, which fostered a relaxed set atmosphere, allowing for natural, unforced performances. She also touched on the dynamic between her character and Bug, portraying a complex, sibling-like relationship rather than a traditional father-daughter bond. Adams reflected on her favourite scenes, including a powerful moment of self-acceptance symbolised by cutting her hair. 

Buda shared how the film explores the tumultuous journey of adolescence through a 12-year-old girl’s eyes, amidst gang violence and her father’s criminal ploys and told us about playing Hunter, both his vulnerability and lack of direction and stability, influenced by a lack of maternal presence. He talked about the spontaneous, laughter-filled set dynamics and the film’s authentic depiction of overcoming adversity with joy, love, and magic. He praised director Arnold’s unique, improvisation-friendly approach, which helped create the film’s raw, eye-opening narrative.

James Nelson Joyce shared his excitement and gratitude for working with Arnold, praising her authentic storytelling, particularly in films like American Honey. He described Bird as a poignant tale of a young girl’s resilience in a harsh environment, highlighted by Joyce’s portrayal of a complex antagonist. He discussed his approach to embodying such a character without judgment, aiming to understand and convey the character’s motivations. Joyce emphasised the importance of trust and safety in performing intense scenes, particularly with his co-star. He hopes the film conveys a message of hope and resilience amidst adversity. 

Frankie Box shared her excitement about being involved with the project, highlighting the emotional impact of the film and praising Arnold’s unique filmmaking style. Box felt honoured to work with Arnold, noting a personal connection through their shared hometown of Dartford. She also commended co-star Keoghan’s portrayal of a flawed yet well-intentioned father, reflecting on the complexities of parenthood. Box expressed gratitude for the opportunity to act again, emphasising the supportive and inspiring atmosphere on set.

Sarah Bradbury

Bird is released nationwide on 8^th November 2024.

Read more reviews from our London Film Festival coverage here.

For further information about the event visit the London Film Festival website here.

Watch the trailer for Bird here: