Delusion has become an increasingly popular theme in horror narratives, and Joanne Mitchell's "Broken Bird" takes a stark, gothic look at loneliness and mental health. The film stars Rebecca Calder, delivering one of the most intriguing performances by a leading woman this year. Loneliness and death are often intertwined in such narratives, so it's fitting that Calder's character, Sybil, works as a mortician. Naturally, this setup leads viewers to wonder, is she engaging in something more sinister with the dead?
"Broken Bird" includes moments of outright hilarity, offering a satirical take we've seen before in horror, but it still manages to spark discussion. Calder carries much of the film, which is the true highlight of "Broken Bird." Her performance is reminiscent of Angela Bettis in "May," showcasing a quirky and memorable character that stands out in the horror genre. Unlike the typical "goth" archetype, Sybil leans more towards the "weird" side as she attempts to find some semblance of social connection in her life, unlike many "normal" people today.
Visually, "Broken Bird" uses lavish decor and costume design to great effect, subtly covering the underlying theme of delusion. However, the film's inevitable conclusion could have been reached at a faster pace. While it's important for films like this to foster discussions on mental health, the slow pace through character development can sometimes detract from the overall excitement.
Despite these pacing issues, what works for "Broken Bird" are the riotous moments where Sybil tries to understand love in her unique way. It's a strong debut for Mitchell, who clearly has a knack for combining the macabre with the absurd, all in the name of love.
2.5/5
Broken Bird
Director: Joanne Mitchell
Written By: Dominic Brunt, Joanne Mitchell, Tracey Sheals
Cast: Rebecca Calder, James Fleet, Jay Taylor, Sacharissa Claxton
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