

Movie spotlight
Drunken Birds
Willy's quest to find Marlena, his lost love, takes him from Mexico to Canada, where he is hired as a seasonal worker at the Bécotte farm, near Montreal. Several destinies intersect, worlds collide, tensions rise and moments of magical realism emerge during long work days.
Insights
Plot Summary
Mickey, a man haunted by his past, returns to the rural Quebec town where he grew up to find his estranged daughter, a victim of human trafficking. His search leads him into the dangerous underworld of the local logging industry, where he must navigate treacherous relationships and confront the violence that has shaped his life. As he delves deeper, he uncovers a complex network of exploitation and survival.
Critical Reception
Drunken Birds received critical acclaim for its atmospheric storytelling, strong performances, and unflinching look at the dark side of rural life. Critics lauded director Ivan Grbović's confident hand in weaving a tale of loss, addiction, and the search for redemption. The film was particularly praised for its ability to balance gritty realism with moments of poetic beauty, creating a powerful and thought-provoking cinematic experience. It resonated with audiences for its raw emotional depth and compelling narrative.
What Reviewers Say
Praised for its haunting atmosphere and visual storytelling.
Lauded for strong performances, particularly from the lead actor.
Noted for its unflinching portrayal of societal issues and complex characters.
Google audience: Audiences generally appreciated the film's artistic direction and compelling narrative, with many finding it to be a powerful and emotionally resonant story. Some viewers noted that the film's slow pace and somber tone might not appeal to everyone, but the overall sentiment was positive regarding its depth and thematic exploration.
Awards & Accolades
Selected as the Canadian entry for the Best International Feature Film at the 94th Academy Awards, and won the award for Best Film at the 2021 Tallinn Black Nights Film Festival.
Fun Fact
The film was shot on location in Quebec, with many scenes taking place in and around actual logging camps and rural communities, contributing to its authentic and immersive atmosphere.
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