Bird – Ujazdowski Castle Centre for Contemporary Art

Andrea Arnold (American Honey, Fish Tank) returns with a story full of rebellious energy and pulsing music — a tale about the fragile strength of youth. Bird, caught between the charisma of Barry Keoghan (The Banshees of Inisherin, Saltburn), the melancholy brought by Franz Rogowski (Passages, Disco Boy), and the free spirit of screen newcomer Nykiya Adams, is a bold and masterful display of directorial strength from one of the most exciting filmmakers in world cinema today.

12-year-old Bailey (Adams) lives with her heavily tattooed father Bug (Keoghan) and older brother Hunter in a small town in eastern England. Despite his warm feelings and good intentions, the immature Bug spends more time with his new partner and chasing money-making schemes than he does with his sensitive daughter. Left to her own devices and misunderstood by those around her, the teenage girl befriends a mysterious stranger — the titular Bird (Rogowski). Their summer wanderings in search of traces of the past help Bailey spread her wings and begin to believe in herself.

Bird, which captivated audiences at last year's Cannes Film Festival, is a tender portrait of growing up in a harsh world. Arnold’s characters, tirelessly searching for connection, safety, and love, are accompanied by a soundtrack curated by iconic British producer Burial. The film also features tracks from bands like Fontaines D.C., Blur, The Verve, and early Coldplay.