The Thing with Feathers

One of the pluses to small independent films are that they typically are original in their premise instead of commercial films that are usually unoriginal. Certainly "The Thing with Feathers" is one of those indie films that is amazingly original. In fact, it is so original, that it goes deeply into a bizarre psychological story line that deems to captivate the imagination.

Following the unexpected death of his wife, a young father's hold on reality crumbles and a strange presence begins to stalk him, Dad (Benedict Cumberbatch) from the shadowy recesses of the apartment he shares with his two sons, Boy 1 (Richard Boxall) and Boy 2 (Henry Boxall). A man-like crow (voiced by David Thewlis), seemingly brought to life from the father's work as an illustrator, is about to become a very real part of all their lives, ultimately guiding them towards the new shape their family must take. 

Others to round out the cast are Sam Spruell as Paul, friend of Dad's, Eric Lampaert as Crow, Tim Plester as Andy, Leo Bill as Dr. Bowden, Claire Cartwright as Mum, Vinette Robinson as Amanda, Dwane Walcott as Teacher and Lesley Molony as Margaret. 

This was directed with such gut-wrenching grit and pathos by Dylan Southern ("No Distance Left to Run" '10, "Shut Up and Play the Hits" '12, "Meet Me in the Bathroom" '22) plus TV, music videos, a short and a video. The way this filmmaker staged and paced this project was phenomenal, and the characters these actors played were captivating and these actors, especially Cumberbatch, made these characters come to life and that's talented directing. This was also interestingly written by Dylan Southern (TV and a short), based on the novel, "Grief Is The Thing with Feathers" by Max Porter. The premise was a very intriguing story about a man trying to cope with his wife's death and through this his illustrating seemingly jumped off his sketckbook and relentlessly attempting to get him out of his self-pity. Even though the story is fresh and different, the execution needed a bit more polish--it was a bit choppy and not expressly cohesive. But, there were many areas that were thrilling and unforgettable all the while this father was being pushed to the brink. This crow-man sort of became his alter-ego in order for him to get through this grieving process that was taking a long time. Southern obviously decided to write the work he directs which is nothing odd or wrong with it. He basically needs more work to hone his basic talent. Cumberbatch's performance as this grieving, taunted man was incredible, but he is a fine actor. 

This is certainly worthy to see in the theater, where, I believe, is always the best place to watch a movie. If you like fine acting and directing, this is the film for you. It's a bit odd in its story, but when someone is grieving and having a tough time of it, they can go a little off-kilter in the way of thinking. 

Out of 4 Stars: 3                                      Rated: R                                              98mins.