Bye Bye Blackbird (2005)

Must See Movie...

Good story, Not enough for a whole film

It was OK. I don't see why everyone loves it so much. It wasn't very smart or deep or well-directed.

Like the great film, it's made with a great deal of visible affection both in front of and behind the camera.

Just saw this at a special screening in LA at the American Cinematheque. I normally like most French films, even ones that aren't great. This, however, isn't a French film for about 98% of its running time (the leading man is French, but the entire film save for one scene, is in English - and bad English at that). I couldn't wait to come here to the IMDb because I just knew I'd find some raves - as I was watching this dreadful film I thought no one in their right mind could rave about this - but I always underestimate the people who "review" or stick up their thoughts for the world to read.This film wants so badly to be poetic - pathetic, maybe, poetic, never. The dialogue is wretched, the plot is non-existent, as are the characters. Poor Derek Jacobi eats every piece of scenery in view. The director is a young person, and he's so in love with his little film-school homages and art, but like most youngsters who get to make films these days, he had no clue as to how to tell a story or make an audience give a flying Wallenda about anything they are seeing.I don't know what film the "ravers" saw, but it sure wasn't this one. Different strokes for different folks? I guess there IS a sucker born every minute.

It is a sad fairy tale taken place at the beginning of the last century. The beautiful camera works and the production design always leave you the feeling of the surreality. The dialogues are poesies rather than real conversations which I didn't feel at ease at the beginning. The stunning last scene is like a theatrical version of the ending of "Over the cuckoo's nest." To me it is a classic film but not obsolete.James Thierree appeared to me the most attractive in this title than in other films. Jodhi May displays her acting ability sometime overwhelming Isabella Miko.I saw this film in Tokyo last October. In the theater, we found Wim Wenders discreetly among the audience. He seems to like this film very much, which I understand.

Dark, compelling, "Bye Bye Blackbird" tells the story of a circus family and the tragedies that impact their lives. You leave the film wondering what was real and what was a dream. The photography was beautiful and surreal. I cared about these characters and when people make decisions for others. The outcomes can be overwhelming and sad.As a huge Jodhi May fan, her performance was fantastic and the rest of the cast was remarkable. She looks very different and she continues to prove herself as a character actress.I saw it at a film festival in CA and the director appeared to answer questions about the production.If you get a chance to see it, I highly recommend this movie.

The first portion of this film is gorgeous and mysterious and mesmerizing. Then it just degenerates into strange soliloquies and depression. It even adds a bit of depravity thrown in for good measure. It's as if the writer was trying to say something profound. But he really doesn't. It's a confusing mess at the end. The pacing, editing, design, and even the acting are so wonderful in the first part of the film. Unfortunately, most of these elements become tiresome by the end. Such a shame because the first 3/5th of the film is really amazing. Wish they'd taken more time to flesh out the ending.I'd still recommend seeing it though. This director should have a bright future. I would watch it again myself.