By Romey Norton - January 6, 2025
Dark Sky films brings the Australian-thriller film Birdeater. Directed by Jack Clarkand Jim Weir, and starring Shabana Azeez and Mackenzie Fearnley, this film is a disturbing, weird experience. One that will either leave you thinking about the meaning of relationships or fast asleep. Many critics are calling this film ‘feral’, probably referring to the wilderness of its outback setting, but Birdeater may sit a little flat for psychological thriller fans as it lacks drive, action and shocking twists.
The story surrounds Irene, a bride-to-be who is invited to join her fiancé Louie’s bachelor party. Set on a remote property in the Australian outback, what could possibly go wrong? The festive friends spiral into drunken chaos as secrets and awkward truths about the seemingly happy-couple’s relationship are revealed. Will this relationship survive the night?
It’s a slow yet intriguing start, as we watch everyone assemble to the bachelor party, and we learn something happened in the soon-to-be-wed couple's past that some friends aren’t happy with. Then an unexpected friend called Sam shows up and everyone is incredibly awkward - as if they don’t want to be there.
Thriller films are meant to make audiences want to run for the hills, but are paralysed as they can’t stop watching. They usually have powerful, political and societal undertones, driving the horror and psychological narrative along. This film has some strong moments but the storyline isn’t gripping enough, and left me wondering what the point was.
The messy, weird storyline doesn’t follow a strong direction as the groom Louie takes no interest in his bachelor party, but instead watches his bride and Sam gently flirt. There are no party games, Irene cooks a big meal, and it just feels a little boring. By 40 minutes in, you might find yourself disengaging. We’re then thrown into a bad drug taking trip, a weird enforced wedding announcement, and a naked woman dancing in a field.
Although the story is weak and takes far too long to build, the acting is very convincing. Each actor plays their character with commitment, and drives the awkwardness and uncomfortable scenes along. They do a great job as though none of the characters are very likeable and as an audience you might not find that character allegiance. The scene at the dinner table is the strongest, where you feel anxious for Irene and what is about to happen.
The music is incredibly bouncy throughout, which was unexpected. From orchestral, to jazz to experimental, it's a very busy soundtrack. The music does aid in keeping the pace of the film steady and enhancing the energy. The shooting style is a mixed-bag from many zoom ins and outs to breaking the 180 rule. Rendering Birdeater an experimental art film rather than a psychological thriller.
As the film enters its final act, the gang's bad trip turns worse as more weird and creepy things begin to happen. Truths are revealed, and nothing will be the same again. The end does feel rushed, and might leave you feeling cold.
Overall, Birdeater is an intriguing watch, and does a good job at keeping you guessing. While there are themes of sex, friendships and toxic relationships, it’s the acting what makes the film worth investing your time in.
Birdeater is out in select cinemas January 10 and will also be available on digital platforms
