BIRD -- A Reflective Coming-of-Age Tale Soaring on Authentic Performances

by Jonathan Berk

Fans of the 2017 film American Honey will likely be excited about Andrea Arnold’s latest work, Bird. The raw, grounded quality seen in American Honey returns here, but Arnold’s new film offers a unique perspective, showcasing an evolution in her storytelling. Bird weaves a compelling story, balancing familiar genre tropes with fresh energy, due in large part to the exquisite performances.

Bailey (Nykiya Adams) is a 12-year-old on the cusp of puberty, living with her father, Bug (Barry Keoghan), and brother, Hunter (Jason Buda), in a squat in North Kent. When Bug announces an unexpected change, Bailey resists, ultimately seeking adventure and attention elsewhere — leading her to a new friend named Bird (Franz Rogowski).
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In her feature debut, Adams delivers an impressive performance, appearing in nearly every frame and anchoring the film's emotional weight. The opening sequence finds her riding a scooter with Bug — who is loud and rebellious — creating a dynamic that doesn’t immediately suggest a father-daughter relationship. When they arrive at their squat and Bug delivers his “big news,” Bailey’s emotional reaction is palpable. It’s a tough scene, but Adams handles it beautifully. Andrea Arnold once again demonstrates her knack for guiding first-time actors to exceptional performances, much as she did with Sasha Lane in American Honey.

Keoghan continues to impress, revealing the broad range of his acting talent. Known for playing roles that are quiet, devilish, quirky, or some blend of these traits, he brings Bug to life with a raw edge reminiscent of Shia LaBeouf’s character in American Honey. However, as the film progresses, his portrayal of Bug — a father who initially appears more like “one of the kids” — takes on unexpected depth. A late scene offers Keoghan a powerful moment, prompting viewers to see Bug in a new, more complex light.

Ultimately, Bird is a coming-of-age story that examines Bailey’s search for identity and purpose. The film explores her challenging family dynamics, and how these shape her evolving sense of self. Bailey faces a swirl of instability: her father is a single parent, her mother’s life is riddled with chaos and violence, her half-siblings are exposed to that same chaos, and Hunter seems to be growing up too fast. Watching Bailey navigate these swirling layers of family tension is anxiety-inducing, underscoring why she’s drawn to Bird, her mysterious new friend.

Rogowski brings a unique, distinct energy to his role as the titular character. From his entrance into the windy field where Bailey meets him, he exudes an intriguing mix of danger and calm, creating an almost otherworldly character. Rogowski's character is on a quest of his own, searching for a family he lost long ago. As Bailey helps him, she finds a way to process her own turbulent life.

Bird is a thoughtful and reflective exploration of family, identity, and societal pressures brought to life by the talents of its young lead. Some elements may not resonate with all audiences, but for those open to Arnold’s deliberate storytelling choices, Bird offers a richly rewarding experience. With a clear voice and unique style, Arnold delivers a film that reinforces the qualities fans appreciated when they saw American Honey.

Bird is in select theaters on November 8.

Rating: 4/5