Songbird

In the midst of the COVID-19 pandemic, a mutated strain of the virus, COVID-23, ravages the world. In a near-future Los Angeles, citizens are confined to their homes, and those infected are forcibly removed to Q-zones. Nico, a motorcycle courier immune to the virus, falls for Sara, an artist trapped in her apartment, as they navigate the dangerous world and try to find a way to be together.

Songbird was widely criticized for its insensitive timing and exploitative portrayal of the pandemic, with many deeming it tone-deaf and poorly executed. Critics pointed to its predictable plot, weak character development, and the ethical questions surrounding its production during a global health crisis.

• The film is considered a tone-deaf and exploitative cash-grab capitalizing on a global tragedy.
• Critics widely panned the predictable plot and underdeveloped characters.
• The decision to make a film about a pandemic during the actual pandemic was heavily criticized.

Google audience: Google users generally disliked the film, with many expressing that it felt exploitative and was released at an inappropriate time. Some found the premise unoriginal and poorly executed, while others felt it was a missed opportunity to offer a more nuanced or hopeful perspective.

The film was controversially shot during the COVID-19 pandemic lockdown, with strict safety protocols in place for cast and crew.