Latest news with #Birdy
Tom's Guide
21-05-2025
- Entertainment
- Tom's Guide
The best Bella Ramsey movie you've (probably) never seen is on Prime Video — and it's a joyful coming-of-age comedy
Bella Ramsey's star is very much on the rise. While most viewers were probably introduced to Ramsey via 'Game of Thrones,' where they played the pint-sized-but-fierce Lyanna Mormont, it's their turn as Ellie in HBO's 'The Last of Us' that has catapulted Ramsey to stardom. However, it was Ramsey's performance in the overlooked 'Catherine Called Birdy' that convinced me they would eventually become a household name. This Amazon original movie debuted in October 2022 and remains available on Prime Video to this day. Directed by Lena Dunham, it's best described as a farcical medieval spin on Judy Blume's coming-of-age classic 'Are You There God? It's Me, Margaret.' Ramsey plays the eponymous role, a precocious young noble navigating growing up in 13th-century England. It's a fun concept for a comedy, and Ramsey shines in the lead role of Lady Catherine (but she prefers to be called Birdy). Plus, there's also an excellent supporting cast with 'Doctor Who's' Billie Piper and 'Sherlock's' Andrew Scott adding to the star-studded British cast. If you missed out on 'Catherine Called Birdy,' and I suspect many people did as it's a movie that seems to have largely sunk in the Prime Video abyss over the years, now is the perfect time to circle back, particularly if you've been enjoying Bella Ramsey's work in 'The Last of Us' on HBO. Based on the 1994 novel of the same name by Karen Cushman, and set in 13th-century Lincolnshire, this comedy focuses on Catherine (Bella Ramsey), otherwise known as Birdy. Birdy is a rebellious and free-spirited 14-year-old. Daughter of Lord Rollo (Andrew Scott), she's forced into an unwanted arrangement when her family's financial situation takes a turn for the worse. The Rollo plans to marry Birdy off to a wealthy suitor, but this is a plan that she's not on board with. Determined to retain her independence and stick by the side of her mother, Lady Aislinn (Billie Piper), as she carries out a difficult pregnancy, Birdy resolves to drive away any suitor that attempts to woo her. Under the guidance of her stern but caring nursemaid (Lesley Sharp), Birdy is forced to face growing up, and also face the responsibility that comes with her place within the medieval society, even if that means leaving behind her family. 'Catherine Called Birdy' is an intentionally silly movie at its core. Its historical setting is used as a playground for all sorts of farcical hijinks, and each new character is introduced with an on-screen profile that offers comedic traits like 'has a very sweaty handshake.' It's wonderfully irreverent throughout, and Ramsey very much steers into the skid in the eponymous role. While Birdy is often immature, she's also plucky and headstrong, and easy to root for. Despite squabbles, Birdy's love for her family is evident, and Ramsay manages to make the protagonist both relatable and charming. Plus, they have great comedic timing. However, the movie's secret comedic weapon is actually Andrew Scott, who leads my favorite gag in the flick where he inadvertently suggests that Birdy is suffering from 'a little bit of pox' to excuse her rudeness during a banquet. This results in panicked cries of 'smallpox' spreading. It's a hilarious moment and sums up the movie's largely wacky tone. Very little is taken seriously. The movie's biggest drawback is the bloated runtime. Clocking in at almost 110 minutes, it probably should have been a tighter 90, and the early portions start to drag as viewers observe Birdy's day-to-day existence without much in the way of narrative driving things forward. However, the pace quickens towards the end, and the conclusion is heartwarming and fitting. Over on Rotten Tomatoes, the movie holds a very strong 89% score from more than 130 reviews and has earned a coveted 'Certified Fresh' seal of approval. 'Bringing a beloved book brilliantly to life, Catherine Called Birdy proves a well-told coming-of-age story can feel fresh regardless of the period setting,' reads the site's 'Critics Consensus.' 'Catherine Called Birdy' is a silly and charming comedy. The movie doesn't give Ramsey the material to showcase their dramatic depth, but it does let them off the chain when it comes to comedy (and they do say comedy is harder than drama!). It's saggy pacing holds it back from true greatness, but it's an endearing coming-of-age story with a likable lead at its heart. However, if you need some alternative watching recommendations this week, here's a round-up of the top new movies across streaming services. And be sure to check out this surprisingly enjoyable comedy-drama with Mark Wahlberg that has just gone to No. 1 on Netflix. Watch "Catherine Called Birdy" on Prime Video now
New Indian Express
30-04-2025
- Entertainment
- New Indian Express
Cinema Without Borders: Looking ahead with hope—Scrap
There is something extremely gratifying about discovering unsung films fortuitously. Scrap has been one such surprise for me—a small, independent American film with a big heart. What's more, it's powered by a woman—Vivian Kerr—who hasn't just written, directed and produced the film, but also stepped in as the lead. Kerr plays a single mom Beth Anderson, who has recently lost two essential securities in life—her job and home. Having left her five-year-old daughter Birdy (Julianna Layne) in the care of her brother Ben (Anthony Rapp), she is living in her car, desperately hunting for a job. The fall semester tuition fee for Birdy hasn't been paid and to make matters worse, her toxic ex and father of Birdy, Joshua (Brad Schmidt) is being manipulative, wanting Beth and Birdy back in his life yet unwilling to make a definite commitment. Despite seeming calm and collected, Ben has his own challenges to deal with. The best-selling author is being paid a handsome advance for three more in the series of books but the work after his own heart—a biography of jazz singer Billie Holiday—has no takers. He and his wife Stacy (Lana Parrilla) are trying hard for her to conceive through IVF. And his relationship with his sibling, who he sacrificed a lot to bring up, is not at its best. While Stacy refers to Beth as a blood-sucking vampire with whom boundaries have to be set, he himself keeps reminding his sister about her responsibility towards her daughter. Life has to be about looking after the child's needs rather than her own whims and fancies. With shots of the iconic elements of the Los Angeles landscape—the palms, Beverly Hills and Hollywood signage, Melrose Avenue and Griffith Observatory—and the ubiquitous phenomenon of homelessness, the film very obviously locates itself in a specific place. However, it's a story that'd be relatable in any corner of the world. Most so for the widespread economic downturn and its impact on individuals and relationships, families and societies at large. In fact, the LA backdrop notwithstanding, most of the film plays out in the interiors—car, homes, offices, bars, restaurants, skating rink, school, bookshop, hotel, mall—and is driven by intimate interactions and life-like conversations between the characters rather than high drama. The narrative is well-anchored in heartfelt, grounded performances. There's something poignant about Beth's pretend life. She doesn't just make those close to her believe in it but appears to accept it herself. It's the comfort derived from a stranger Marcus (Khleo Thomas) that makes her admit to being laid off in the company's downsizing. Despite the difficulties Beth must contend with there are gentle moments of humour that make one smile through her never-ending struggles. She might be dressing up and getting ready in a public washroom but the attire for the interview(s) is perfect, right down to the Calvin Klein shoes—mistaken for Louboutin by a prospective employer. Then there's the online retail therapy that she indulges in with a vengeance, as though to compensate for the many gaping holes in her life. Essentially, it's all about the dynamics of a sibling relationship. There might be a growing misunderstanding between them, they might hurt each other, and in the process themselves, the house they grew up in might be getting razed. But from these seeming ashes, their love and care for each other will rise and grow anew. Ben helps Beth get the vital focus in her career and as a mom, Beth helps Ben realize the pointlessness in trying to bring a baby to this world. It also helps Stacy reconcile with surrogacy or adoption and mend her ties with Beth. There's hope in this bittersweet film. That all won't be lost, that the messed-up relations will resolve, the scraps and squabbles will lead to harmony, and happiness will come to prevail.
The Guardian
21-03-2025
- Entertainment
- The Guardian
TV tonight: fundraising bonanza Comic Relief turns 40
7pm, BBC OneIt's that time of year again – the fundraising marathon returns, packed with sketches, heart-tugging stories and downright bizarre moments. And this is its 40th anniversary! Davina McCall, Joel Dommett, Alison Hammond and AJ Odudu are among the night's hosts, with Strictly, Gladiators and Beyond Paradise some of the shows getting the comic treatment. Hollie Richardson 7.30pm, Channel 4This investigation into the rise of institutions in South Africa dedicated to using military methods to instil discipline in teenagers focuses on the Rising Stars Generation camp. Run by 25-year-old Prince Motlou, its practices including corporal punishment and making children march for hours in the heat without water. Alexi Duggins 8pm, BBC TwoWith glimmers of sunshine finally arriving in the UK, it's OK to get excited about things such as jewel garden borders again – which is exactly what Monty Don is doing this week. Over in Carmarthenshire, Sue Kent is harnessing the Welsh weather to grow some veg. HR 8pm, Channel 4Claudia Winkleman hosts the high-stakes, high-concept quiz, where only one question stands between contestants and £100,000. This time, father and son Duncan and William compete alongside twins Teresa and Maddy. Ali Catterall 9pm, Sky Max The tour rolls on, now managed by Marcus. But when Deborah meets an old comedy rival and finds her selling shoes for a living, she is forced to agonise over how being a good parent and successful comic don't always go hand in hand. Cue Ava stepping up like a surrogate daughter for a touching pep talk. Alexi Duggins 10pm, Channel 4Fabulously dressed artist Grayson Perry and football-mad comedian Maisie Adam join Adam Hills, Josh Widdicombe and Alex Brooker to dissect yet another chaotic week that has featured more if-you-don't-laugh-you'll-cry moments from our world leaders. Hopefully, there'll be a good story in there, too ... please? HR Birdy, 6am, 3.55pm, Sky Cinema Greats A neglected entry in the slew of Vietnam war movies released in the 1980s, Alan Parker's drama is an affecting tale of childhood friendship and trauma, with a cracking Peter Gabriel score. Nicolas Cage throws his all into the role of injured US soldier Al (he even had two teeth extracted to simulate his character's facial injury), who visits his childhood best mate, mute war veteran Birdy (Matthew Modine), in a military psychiatric facility. Flashbacks to their teenage scrapes in Philly, and Birdy's escalating obsession with birds and flying, offer clues to his breakdown. Simon Wardell Sweet Sue, 11.15pm, BBC TwoOn this evidence, Leo 'son of Mike' Leigh is clearly a chip off the old block. The lives of working-class people are made complex, vital and tragic in his comedy drama following party-shop owner Sue (Maggie O'Neill). She's had her troubles, but things start to look up after she meets strong, silent biker Ron at her brother's funeral. Sadly, he's silent because he's bottled up emotionally, and also has a fraught relationship with his influencer son Anthony (Harry Trevaldwyn). O'Neill is terrific as a woman up for fun but too self-assured to play nursemaid to inadequate men. SW Athletics: World Indoor Championships 10.15am, BBC Two. Day one from Nanjing, China. World Cup football: England v Albania 7pm, ITV1. A Group K qualifier at Wembley.
Zawya
17-03-2025
- Business
- Zawya
Dulsco Group celebrates Global Recycling Day with Wheels of Change for a second consecutive year
DUBAI, United Arab Emirates: UAE-based Dulsco Group, a regional leader in people, environment, talent and recruitment solutions, today rolled out its Wheels of Change campaign for the second year to mark Global Recycling Day (Tuesday 18 March). Starting today at GEMS Cambridge International School, Dubai, the team will showcase Dulsco Group's continued support for UAE government sustainability directives – including the UAE Net Zero 2050 strategy and the UAE Circular Economy Policy – at seven stops throughout the coming week until 20 March. Visiting organisations and educational institutions, the interactive and fun recycling campaign will involve the Dulsco Recycling Bus – a familiar sight on UAE roads – collecting recyclable waste and raising awareness of the importance of proper waste management and waste segregation to preserve the planet for future generations. With educational games and guest appearances from Birdy; Dulsco's official mascot, the week promises to be a lot of fun for all. In 2024, Dulsco Group's Wheels of Change campaign collected over half a tonne (500 kg) of recyclable waste around Global Recycling Day and this year, they aim to surpass this achievement, further reducing waste sent to landfills and strengthening its commitment to sustainability. Wheels of Change Schedule: Monday, 17 March 9.30AM to 10.30AM GEMS Cambridge International School, Dubai Tuesday,18 March 9.30AM to 10.30AM Al Jaddaf Rotana Suite Hotel 12.00PM to 1.00PM ALEC & ALEMCO Wednesday, 19 March 12PM to 1.00PM Americana Foods Thursday, 20 March 9.00AM to 10.00AM A Educational Institution in Silicon Oasis 11.00AM to 12.00PM Millennium Place Barsha Heights Hotel 12.00PM to 1.00PM Avani+Palm View Dubai Hotel & Suites About Dulsco Group Dulsco Group is a UAE-born integrated solutions provider with a portfolio of businesses comprising: Dulsco Environment, Dulsco People, Parisima and Advance Global Recruitment (AGR). Launched in 1935 as a workforce solutions provider, Dulsco has evolved to become a leader in People Solutions, Environmental Solutions, Talent Solutions, and Energy Recruitment Solutions servicing over 3,700 clients across a range of sectors.
