White Bird * This Magical Film Demonstrates The Power To Dream, To Laugh, And To Enjoy The Presence Of Others
From the world of Wonder, which sparked a movement to “choose kind,” comes the inspirational next chapter: White Bird. Struggling to fit in at his new school after being expelled for his treatment of Auggie Pullman, Julian (Bryce Gheisar) is visited by his grandmother (Helen Mirren) and is transformed by the compassionate and heroic story of her attempts to escape Nazi-occupied France during WWII. From the director of Finding Neverland, White Bird reminds us to be brave and choose kind.
KIDS FIRST! Film Critic Dominic D. comments, “This magical film, White Bird, demonstrates the power to dream, to laugh, and to enjoy the presence of others despite the evil acts of some.” Adele Rayna B. adds, “White Bird is mesmerizing and one of the most beautiful and emotional films I’ve ever seen! The fantastic storytelling with its realistic costumes and exquisite imagery left me in awe. By the end, I wanted to watch it all over again!” Braedyn M. wraps it up with, “I especially like how director Marc Forester incorporates some imaginative flair into the production, showing not only the dark and truthful reality of World War II, but also the happy and comforting moments that existed during that time.” See their full reviews and Braedyn’s interview with producer, Kevin Downes below.
White Bird
By Dominic D., KIDS FIRST! Film Critic, Age 14
Helen Mirren as Grandmère in White Bird: A Wonder Story. Photo Credit: Courtesy of Lionsgate
This magical film, White Bird, demonstrates the power to dream, to laugh, and to enjoy the presence of others despite the evil acts of some.
From the world of Wonder and Academy Award-winning director Marc Forster, comes the sequential film White Bird, which takes us a step further into the life of Julian (Bryce Gheisar) who must finally face the consequences of past actions — particularly the bullying of Auggie Pullman, a 10-year-old boy born with facial differences. Expelled from school as a result of his unkind acts toward others, Julian gets a taste of his own medicine as he is alienated and challenged to make friends at his new school. His grandmother, Sara Blum (Helen Mirren), pays him a visit with hopes of sharing her haunting and deeply moving story about her survival in Nazi-occupied France during one of the darkest moments of history.
Orlando Schwerdt as Julien and Ariella Glaser as Sara in White Bird: A Wonder Story. Photo Credit: Larry Horricks
Intricately narrated, White Bird gives us two stories; one about Julian’s present-day struggles and the other a stirring tale of his grandmother’s harsh struggles during World War II. Flashbacks of young Sara (Ariella Glaser) and her courageous classmate Julian (Orlando Schwerdt), demonstrate for viewers how traumatic life was being a Jew during Nazi-run territories. Their relationship is more than one of survival — it is one of kindness, love, and sacrifice. What I love most about White Bird is the visualization of young Sara Blum’s life and how her story had a purpose. I connected with her story emotionally as she teaches her grandson the valuable lesson of showing kindness. The stories of two troubled teens — young Sara and her grandson Julian, are well-channeled and they flow with ease. Although both stories contain heartache; they both end in hope.
This film is a masterpiece filled with a nice balance of warmth and wisdom. The historic drama combined with the modern coming-of-age scenes adds a special touch to White Bird and kept me engaged throughout the entire film.
Helen Mirren as Grandmère and Bryce Gheisar as Julian in White Bird: A Wonder Story. Photo Credit: Larry Horricks
A box of tissues nearby is a must while watching this film. White Bird has many teachable moments and contains many life lessons. This is a must-see family film.
The film’s message rings loud and clear – it’s a message of kindness and how kindness must be shared and practiced. Hate surrounds us; that’s a fact of life. However, the smallest gestures of goodwill can lead to the greatest change. This film is also about bravery as that is what allows us to take risks and speak up for those who don’t have a voice. It takes a lot of courage sometimes to be kind.
I give White Bird 5 out of 5 stars and recommend it for ages 8 to 18, plus adults. White Bird opens in theaters on October 4, 2024. Be sure to check it out. You’re not going to want to miss this one!
White Bird
By Adele Rayna B., KIDS FIRST! Film Critic, Age 10
Helen Mirren as Grandmère in White Bird: A Wonder Story. Photo Credit: Larry Horricks
White Bird is mesmerizing and one of the most beautiful and emotional films I’ve ever seen! The fantastic storytelling with its realistic costumes and exquisite imagery left me in awe. By the end, I wanted to watch it all over again!
The story starts with Julian (Bryce Gheisar ) going to a new school and struggling to fit in and find his place. When he gets home, his Nonna, Sara (Helen Mirren) is there visiting and starts telling him a story of her childhood. The story takes us back to the 1940s and World War II in France. Young Sara (Ariella Glaser) and her Jewish family thought they would be safe in France but quickly find out this is not the case. Sara’s Jewish classmates are captured but she is able to escape with the help of fellow classmate Julian (Orlando Shlwerdt). He takes Sara to his family‘s barn to hide from the Nazis. Over several months, Zara and Julian build their friendship and admiration for each other. As time moves on, you realize her classmate Julian is someone Sara will always think of fondly.
Bryce Gheisar as Julian in White Bird: A Wonder Story. Photo Credit: Julia Vrabelova
The production team really paid attention to detail and it definitely adds to the story. I absolutely love the costumes in this film as they really fit the 1940s era in France. I especially adore Sara‘s red heels and her beautiful dresses! The soldiers’ war time uniforms represent the period well. The sets and props are equally outstanding. The imagination scene with Zara and her classmate Julian is so gorgeous and makes you feel like you are there with them. From the old time truck to the authentic movie reels you are on a journey. It is so engaging to watch the fantastic places come to life on screen and watch the relationships grow. What excites me most is how the directors and writers connect the storytelling from present to past and back again. The acting in this movie is so convincing. I felt like I was stepping back into the 1940s during the war with each scene. Helen Mirren’s calming voice is completely captivating. I could feel her emotion as she spoke and also see it in her eyes. The story is woven through time and shows how kindness is timeless. How will Sara’s story affect her grandson’s life choices? In the end, the film encourages you to always follow your biggest passions and aspirations to make a difference.
The film’s message is to always be kind to others because you never know how they can impact your life. Be forewarned that there are several instances of gun use, flashing lights, and other violence.
I give White Bird, 5 out of 5 stars and recommended for ages 12 to 18, plus adults. The film releases in theaters October 4, 2024.
White Bird
By Braedyn M., KIDS FIRST! Film Critic, age 15
Gillian Anderson as Vivienne in White Bird: A Wonder Story. Photo Credit: Courtesy of Lionsgate
White Bird is a truly charming story. With its in-depth scenery, wide range of characters and a message that still resonates with us today, this film encourages you to think twice about someone before you devise a conclusion about them.
Following the adventure of Wonder, Julian Albans (Bryce Gheisar) who was expelled from his school due to his bullying another boy, is told a tale of his grandmother’s (Helen Mirren) childhood. As a young Jewish girl in Nazi occupied France, Sara Blum (Ariella Glaser) is hidden away by a boy named Julian (Orlando Schwerdt) who was born with polio. At his farm while his family searches for her parents, she starts spending time with Julian, and begins to see him not as the boy with the crutch, but as her guide, her friend, and her light.
I love the film angles in this movie. Depending on the scene, there is a great deal of variety. There may be a wide angle for a happy moment, or a close-up for an intense dialogue between the characters. However, some of the times when they talk, it is a bit hard to hear. It sounds like they are whispering most of the time.
Ariella Glaser as Sara in White Bird: A Wonder Story. Photo Credit: Larry Horricks
I especially like how director Marc Forester incorporates some imaginative flair into the production, showing not only the dark and truthful reality of World War II, but also the happy and comforting moments that existed during that time. Speaking of which, my favorite part is when young Sara and Julian are imagining that they are traveling the world, although they never really leave the barn. It shows that kids will still be kids no matter what might be happening around them. I also like how, as she is telling her story, Grand’Mere Sara sprinkles in bits and pieces of humor that keep the audience entertained.
The film’s message is to always look for the good in people, no matter how small. Despite being the odd one out at school, Julian still shows kindness to Sara, and he keeps her company during the war, which results in a wonderful friendship between the two.
I give White Bird 4.5 out of 5 stars and recommend for ages 12 to 18, plus adults. White Bird opens in theaters on October 4, 2024.
