I watched Birds of Prey and I liked it. 3.5/5
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“Birds of Prey” burst onto the screen in 2020 with a vibrant explosion of color, action, and female empowerment. Directed by Cathy Yan, the film is an ensemble action-comedy that brings together DC’s fiercest female characters in a chaotic showdown against crime and corruption.
Visually, “Birds of Prey” is a kaleidoscope of neon-lit Gotham City, setting a lively and energetic tone from the start. The cinematography by Matthew Libatique paints a vivid, gritty picture of the city’s underbelly, emphasizing the wild and anarchic nature of the story. The film’s action sequences are choreographed with flair, showcasing the unique fighting styles of each character. The use of practical effects and stunts adds a visceral quality to the action that’s both thrilling and refreshing in an age of CGI-dominated blockbusters.
Margot Robbie reprises her role as Harley Quinn, the film’s unapologetically chaotic centerpiece. Robbie’s portrayal of Harley is a delightful cocktail of eccentricity and unpredictability. She effortlessly embodies the character’s unhinged nature, injecting every scene with a jolt of manic energy. Robbie’s comedic timing is spot-on, providing many of the film’s standout moments.
The supporting cast is equally strong. Jurnee Smollett-Bell shines as Dinah Lance/Black Canary, bringing depth and charisma to the role. Her character’s journey from reluctant bystander to powerful heroine is one of the film’s more compelling arcs. Mary Elizabeth Winstead’s Huntress is a mysterious force to be reckoned with, and Ewan McGregor’s Roman Sionis/Black Mask oozes slimy charm, serving as a delightfully detestable antagonist.
The narrative structure of “Birds of Prey” is intentionally fragmented, with Harley Quinn narrating the story in her uniquely scattered style. While this approach adds a quirky touch, it occasionally results in disjointed storytelling. The non-linear narrative can be disorienting, and certain plot points feel rushed or underdeveloped. The film’s pacing, especially in the first act, stumbles as it juggles multiple character introductions and plot threads.
One of the film’s strongest elements is its unapologetic celebration of female empowerment. “Birds of Prey” doesn’t shy away from depicting the strength, resilience, and vulnerabilities of its female characters. Their diverse backgrounds and personalities form the beating heart of the narrative, and their camaraderie is a source of both humor and emotional depth. The film effectively flips the script on traditional gender dynamics, offering a refreshing take on the superhero genre.
However, “Birds of Prey” occasionally stumbles in its attempts to balance empowerment with exploitation. Some scenes veer uncomfortably close to objectification, particularly in the way certain characters are framed and portrayed. While the film’s intent is clear—to subvert traditional male gaze tropes—it occasionally treads a fine line.
In the end, “Birds of Prey” is a wild ride through the vibrant, chaotic streets of Gotham City. It’s a film that revels in its own brand of insanity, anchored by Margot Robbie’s magnetic performance as Harley Quinn. While the narrative may lose its footing at times and some thematic elements could use more nuance, the film’s unapologetic celebration of female strength and the electric chemistry of its cast make it a worthwhile addition to the superhero genre.