A teen tries to make sense of the world in Dr. Bird’s Advice for Sad Poets, the latest from writer/director Yaniv Raz.
Based on the book of the same name by Evan Roskos, the film follows James Whitman, a sixteen-year-old with plenty of insecurities and problems. First off his sister has disappeared, and as much as he wants to find her, he seems to be shut down at every turn. Then there are the usual issues of being sixteen: the awkwardness and burgeoning loves and whatnots. But James also can’t shake his overwhelming anxiety, all of which he tries to deal with by consulting a well-read and knowledgeable therapist who happens to be a pigeon.
There looks to be plenty of whimsy in this coming-of-age tale, which should suit Raz well. His only previous feature, Son of Morning, also hinged on a bizarre set of events, so a talking pigeon should be within his comfort zone.
Starring as young James is Lucas Jade Zumann, who previously impressed as the son in 20th Century Women. That was much more of an ensemble as this appears to be, so it will be interesting to see how he carries a film that’s more squarely on his shoulders. Co-starring with him is Taylor Russell, Lisa Edelstein, Jason Isaacs, and Tom Wilkinson as the voice of the bird.
This looks to be a strangle little movie with lots of intriguing pieces. Hopefully, it all comes together to be something special.
Dr. Bird’s Advice for Sad Poets is directed by Yaniv Raz and stars Lucas Jade Zumann, Taylor Russell, and Jason Isaacs. It will be released on demand in the US on January 12th, 2021. Further release dates are not currently known.
Will you check this one out? Let us know in the comments!
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