WATCH THE TRAILER HERE
First, the Recap:
Ah the wonders of politics. Seems like no matter how much we try to, at times, distance ourselves from the mundane to the blatantly ugly when it comes to government, it just doesn’t seem to happen. However, this isn’t regarding some random griping about what our leaders are or are not doing–right? In a small pub, friends Amber (Kate Goodfellow), Warren (Steve Aaron-Sipple), John (Steve Larkin), and Michael (Chris Clynes) all rant about the status quo, musing over the lack of solutions, proposing some of their own, and playing billiards until a news flash grabs attention–a killer bird has escaped and is causing panic amongst the local populace. Nonsense for sure, yet Michael sees opportunity.
Goaded into action by the rest of his cohorts, Michael leaves to track down the elusive menace, taking in multiple reports of its constant and vicious attacks. Ending up at a local park in the countryside, Michael’s attention span in seeking the creature is initially less than stellar. Along the way, he runs into a woman, Linda (Lindsay Bennett), who ultimately joins him on the quest. While attempting his various methods of capturing a monster, Michael also discovers a surprising park resident with whom his interactions begin on a decidedly odd note. But, the hunt Michael is involved with then takes a startling turn, and Linda’s tough compatriot Paul (Stewart James Barham) suddenly sends the whole plan dangerously awry.
Next, my Mind:
Providing a uniquely executed story combined with both subtle hilarity and straight-up satirical punch, writer/director Daniel Harding’s “Killer Bird” delivers exactly what it’s chosen nomenclature suggests, and does it with a distinct and unmistakable wry sense of wit and intelligence. Keeping the viewer consistently off-guard by introducing certain concepts and notions the narrative presents, it makes for some interestingly engaging tension as we anxiously follow the lead character’s adventure to face his fears and locate the escaped quarry causing so much mayhem. Smart cinematography with well-designed shots aides in the overall air of mystery being built up as well, again drawing our notice and continuing to keep the lurking presence of the killer bird constantly on the mind.
Clynes is quite simply perfect to play Michael as the everyman he is, peer-pressured into an undertaking by his own friends (and because of shooting his mouth off), but then standing strong for what he chooses to do, even when things take an unexpected turn. Plus, the calm, yet still apprehensive, nature of Michael’s persona is very well emoted by Clynes. Likewise, Bennett’s Linda is a treat to watch, as at times, one cannot totally determine whether she is a true ally or a possible foil to Michael’s goal to capture the bird and return it to the proper authorities. Another actor brings a fantastic and key presence to the proceedings, and the rest of the supporting group in Goodfellow, Aaron-Sipple, Larkin, and Barham all bring crucial moments to the film. Politics, anyone?
As always, this is all for your consideration and comment. Until next time, thank you for reading!
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