The Thing with Feathers is a film that plunges deep into the emotional weight of grief, utilizing Benedict Cumberbatch’s compelling performance to convey the struggles of a father who’s lost his wife. However, while the film excels in emotional intensity, it struggles to find the balance between grounded human drama and abstract fantasy.
Through the inclusion of a giant crow, the film ventures into a space where the boundaries of grief and horror blur, but not without consequence. Here’s a breakdown of how various critics have responded to the film.
The Thing with Feathers Variety Review (Short)
The film’s use of grief as a central theme is clear, especially through Cumberbatch’s portrayal of a father struggling with his loss. The film opens with a deeply emotional breakfast scene that makes the weight of grief palpable. However, the introduction of the crow, meant to represent the father’s psychological torment, becomes a distraction.
Initially shocking, it eventually feels like a gimmick rather than a profound symbol. The movie shifts from grounded emotional drama to fantastical horror, but the transition doesn’t quite land, which weakens the emotional impact.
Variety Rating – 6/10
“A getting-over-grief movie that strands itself in a netherworld between psychological drama and dark fantasy.”
The Thing with Feathers Deadline Review (Short)
Deadline focuses on Cumberbatch’s raw performance, which they describe as the highlight of the film. His moments of utter despair draw viewers deeply into the character’s internal battle. The crow, voiced by David Thewlis, adds intrigue but doesn’t develop in a way that feels substantial.
The dynamic between Dad and the crow becomes repetitive, and it’s unclear whether the crow is a real presence or a figment of Dad’s grief-stricken mind. The emotional weight of the film will resonate with those who have experienced loss, but for others, it may be too intense.
Deadline Rating – 7/10
“A brutal sparring between Dad and Crow, an intense, drunken scene choreographed to Screamin’ Jay Hawkins’ ‘Feast of the Mau Mau.’”
The Thing with Feathers ScreenDaily Review (Short)
ScreenDaily adopts a more critical stance, pointing out that the film fails to capture the nuance of Max Porter’s novella. The source material had a poetic, existential balance, but the film opts for a more literal approach.
While Cumberbatch’s performance is stellar, it overshadows the supporting characters, particularly the two boys, making the story feel incomplete. The crow’s role, which was intellectual and symbolic in the book, now feels like a clumsy plot device.
ScreenDaily Rating – 8/10
“The best he has been in years.”
The Thing with Feathers has sparked diverse reactions. While the film’s emotional core, centered on grief, is potent, its transition from drama to fantasy detracts from its impact. The crow, which should have served as a powerful symbol of grief, ultimately feels more like a distraction.
WTF Detective’s The Thing with Feathers Review Breakdown:
Despite Cumberbatch’s strong performance, the film struggles to capture the emotional depth necessary to make it truly resonant.
1. Story & Writing – 7/10
The film explores grief in an ambitious way, but it feels predictable and heavy at times. It focuses on psychological aspects but lacks the depth of the original story.
2. Acting & Characters – 9/10
Cumberbatch’s performance is excellent, but the film doesn’t develop the supporting characters, especially the two boys, enough, making the story feel incomplete.
3. Direction & Cinematography – 8/10
The film looks stunning with its claustrophobic aspect ratio, but sometimes the style takes over, leaving the emotional connection behind.
4. Emotional Impact – 7/10
The film is emotionally intense, especially for those who have experienced loss. But it can be overwhelming at times and feels overly dramatic.
5. Production Design & Atmosphere – 8/10
The setting, with the decaying house and eerie presence of the Crow, creates an oppressive atmosphere. However, the heavy symbolism can feel too much, distracting from the emotional depth.
The Thing with Feathers is a visually striking and emotional film about grief, but its abstract storytelling and intense tone may not connect with everyone. It’s a tough watch, but those who relate to its themes will find it powerful.
If you’re someone who enjoys art-house films that tackle grief head-on and don’t mind a dark, introspective look at personal loss, The Thing with Feathers might resonate with you. If you’ve seen films like The Babadook or A Ghost Story, you’ll find a similar atmosphere of haunting exploration of the human psyche.
However, if you’re someone who enjoys feel-good movies or films with a clear resolution, The Thing with Feathers might not be the right choice for you. For example, if you’re a fan of The Pursuit of Happyness, where the protagonist overcomes challenges with a sense of hope and triumph, you’ll likely find this film’s heavy emotional weight and lack of closure a stark contrast. Similarly, if you enjoy movies like The Secret Life of Walter Mitty, which offer a more uplifting and optimistic journey, this one’s somber tone and abstract approach to grief could leave you unsatisfied.
