The Starling is not only messy and weird but quietly hopeful. It's like real life when it breaks and slowly stitches back together. At it's best the film accepts that sorrow and absurdity can live in the same scene. One moment you're laughing and hollow the next, both reactions are honest.
Chris O'Dowd's portrayal of the husband may be understated to some but his character's version of coping felt painfully familiar. The person who tries to come off as "fine" because they're doing anything but facing the emptiness.
Yes, the movie leans into quirky humor that won't land for everyone.
For me the film succeeded because it allowed small joys and awkwardness to coexist with deep sadness. The confusion, guilt and eventual relief of a grieving couple is moving.
The Starling is not only messy and weird but quietly hopeful. It's like real life when it breaks and slowly stitches back together. At it's best the film accepts that sorrow and absurdity can live in the same scene. One moment you're laughing and hollow the next, both reactions are honest.
Chris O'Dowd's portrayal of the husband may be understated to some but his character's version of coping felt painfully familiar. The person who tries to come off as "fine" because they're doing anything but facing the emptiness.
Yes, the movie leans into quirky humor that won't land for everyone.
For me the film succeeded because it allowed small joys and awkwardness to coexist with deep sadness. The confusion, guilt and eventual relief of a grieving couple is moving.
