Rent Birdy (1984)

One Flew Over the Pretentious Nest - Birdy review by griggs

Birdy is a curious beast. When it’s good, it’s terrific—tender, thoughtful, and surprisingly moving. But when it’s bad… well, it unintentionally flaps into the realm of the pretentious. Parker’s deadly seriousness gives us wistful staring, melodramatic voice-overs, Cage Rage™?, and Modine, starkers, bird-posing on the bed. Much of the humour feels accidental—Cage, in particular, seems adrift. Yet, as the film settles, the bond between the two men grounds it beautifully. It’s touching stuff, just too long. Trim 20 minutes and you’ve got a leaner, stronger film. As it stands, it hovers—but never quite soars.

Birdy flying high - Birdy review by RP

While the film falls well short of the brilliant book. It is well worth rewatching what I remember was an outstanding and atmospheric film. The leads are good at what would turn out to be the beginnings of great carers for them both. Underlying the basic plot is the need to stay safe in the security of happy times while pushing out the nightmares of later experiences. 

The soundtrack by Peter Gabriel regurgitating some of his music from earlier albums also works really well. Although maybe the film feels a bit dated now. It still has an atmosphere and style that still packs a few surprises.