1h 50mins
6/10
First time watch
Coming of Age – Drama – Gritty
A young boy discovers a passion for falconry after taking in a kestrel, but this newfound joy stands in stark contrast to the harsh reality of his life and the indifference of those around him.
I must admit that I needed to put the subtitles on to follow this film, but what a sweet yet emotional coming of age story this is.
I’d been misled by my assumptions of the cover for this film for years. I saw a young boy appearing to be flipping off the camera, so thought it was some kind of thuggish, yob-like, gang, coming of age story set in France (I somehow thought Kes was a french word). I’d put it in my mind as a foreign language “This Is England (2006)” type of film, which I wouldn’t say is my usual vibe, but would probably try one day.
It was beautiful watching Billy’s joy grow as he began to train Kes and the positivity it brought into his life. If only those around him had done the same.
The film’s slow pace feels purposeful, reflecting the drab and dreary lives of those around him, which serves to highlight the small yet meaningful joy Kes brings into his life.
Although I’m glad to have seen it, I don’t feel it has a rewatch-able factor for me.
Would not watch again
What Katie Watched 