Louie (Mackenzie Fearley) invites his bride-to-be, Irene (Shabana Azeez), to his Bucks/Stag party. What begins as a modern and progressive gesture soon descends into an uncomfortable exploration of a relationship that may not be as it appears.

This low-budget thriller/horror film is the debut feature from Australian filmmakers Jack Clark and Jim Weir. They have collaborated since their time at the acclaimed AFTRS (Australian Film Television and Radio School), where they studied together and went on to work on several short films. For this one, Clark took on writing duties and they both co-directed.

Early in the film, we see a massive poster of Wake in Fright on the wall of one character’s homes, not-so-subtley hinting at the direction the film may take. Drawing inspiration from the Australian New Wave classic horror film Wake in Fright (1971), which portrayed a young school teacher’s descent into madness and moral decay in the Australian outback, Birdeater delves into themes of toxic masculinity, manipulation, collusion, and deeply hidden agendas.

Sam (Harvey Wilson) and Irene (Shabana Azeez) in Birdeater

The film raises thought-provoking questions without offering clear answers or even suggestions. The intent seems to be to highlight these societal issues and encourage viewers to come to their own conclusions. While the actors deliver believable performances, the film occasionally suffers from trying too hard to make its points. The interactions between characters, while mostly effective, could have been smoother and more authentic.
These are minor criticisms in the grander scheme.

Dinner time speech by Dylan (Ben Hunter) in Birdeater

The Wake-in Frightness of it all is the most intriguing aspect of the film enhanced by the artistic touches of first-time cinematographer, Roger Stonehouse and editor Ben Anderson.

The cast and crew have succeeded in creating a decent film that explores the darker sides of relationships and their efforts suggest promising futures ahead. Stand out Ben Hunter delivers an unhinged and layered performance as Dylan, Louie’s best mate and Shabana Azeez and Mackenzie Fearley also give top performances as the ‘happy’ couple in this indie thriller.
It’s not perfect but is interesting nevertheless.

Distributed by the excellent Umbrella Entertainment, Birdeater is out now at cinemas in Australia.