Bird

Synopsis

CFF is delighted to be opening the Festival with a special screening of Bird (2024), the Palme d’Or-nominated film from Andrea Arnold, Fish Tank (2009), American Honey (2016), Cow (2021).

Twelve-year-old Bailey (Nykia Adams, delivering an incredible performance) lives in a squat in Gravesend with her brother Hunter (Jason Buda) and reckless father Bug (Barry Keoghan). One morning, she meets a peculiar stranger who presents himself as Bird (Franz Rogowski). A simple story of acceptance and bond-building is never that simple amidst the social reality that Bailey lives in. At its heart, Bird (2024) holds Heaven and Earth, the ideal and the real, in equal regard. Fans of Arnold’s work can also expect the signature Arnold needle drop too (here’s a hint: it’s a Coldplay song). Unmissable.

We are delighted to welcome director Andrea Arnold for an in-person post‑screening Q&A on Opening Night (24th October)