The Starling

Lilly Maynard is struggling to cope with the dissolution of her marriage and the recent death of her infant daughter. As she grapples with her grief, a starling that has nested in her garden becomes an unlikely source of solace and a symbol of hope. With the help of her veterinarian neighbor, Lilly works to understand and care for the bird, finding a path towards healing and reconciliation.

The Starling received largely negative reviews from critics, who often criticized its inconsistent tone and predictable storyline. While some praised the performances of the lead actors, particularly Melissa McCarthy and Kevin Kline, the film was generally seen as a missed opportunity to explore its themes of grief and healing with more depth and originality.

• The film attempts to balance heartfelt drama with quirky comedy, but often falters in its execution.

• Performances from the main cast are commendable, though they struggle to elevate the material.

• The narrative feels predictable and lacks the emotional resonance it aims for.

Google audience: Audience reviews indicate a mixed reception. Many found the film to be touching and appreciated the performances, particularly Melissa McCarthy's emotional range. However, a significant portion of viewers felt the plot was overly sentimental and did not fully explore the complex themes of grief and marital struggles.

Kevin Kline, who plays a former psychiatrist and veterinarian, reportedly worked with actual veterinarians to prepare for his role and gain a better understanding of animal care.