Corey Feldman believes his performance in The Birthday is his best work yet, despite it taking 20 years to see the light of day. This long-awaited film showcases Feldman’s unique ability to portray complex characters and provides a gripping narrative that resonates with many.
The Journey of The Birthday
Feldman plays Norman Forrester, a character marked by anxiety as he navigates the tricky waters of meeting his girlfriend Alison’s parents. Set against the backdrop of her father’s birthday party, Norman’s nervousness escalates as he experiences awkward exchanges that lead him to quip, “I feel like the wrong corpse at the wrong funeral.”
As the plot unfolds, Norman discovers something sinister lurking beneath the party’s surface. His attempts to warn those around him are met with disbelief, creating a tension that drives the film forward. Feldman’s performance is both distinctive and intentional, using a nasally tone that captures Norman’s insecurities while also showcasing moments of unexpected strength.
Why Has It Taken So Long for The Birthday to Release?
You might be wondering why a film as compelling as The Birthday remained unseen for two decades. According to Feldman, the delay largely stemmed from the Executive Producer’s refusal to accept offers that didn’t provide a full refund of expenses upfront. Distributors were hesitant to invest fully as the landscape of film distribution was changing, especially with the decline of DVDs.
Despite positive feedback from festivals, the film was essentially shelved. Feldman noted, “It’s frustrating that The Birthday went unseen for so long, but the payoff has its rewards. It’s a dark comedy in the Lynchian style.” Finally, after years of waiting, audiences will get their chance to see this intriguing film on October 11.
The Allegorical Nature of The Birthday
One of the film’s standout features is its allegorical resonance. Feldman likened Norman’s experiences to his own life over the past 20 years. “It’s almost eerie,” he remarked, drawing parallels between Norman’s struggles as the unexpected hero and his own personal challenges in the public eye.
- Irony: Norman, a shaky and insecure man, ultimately finds inner strength and takes on challenges that seem far beyond his capabilities.
- Transformation: The narrative explores how people can change under life-threatening situations, echoing real-life transformations we all face.
Interactions with Other Characters
Norman’s interactions with characters like Vince and Theodore serve to highlight his adaptability. The film cleverly portrays how our personalities can shift based on our environment:
- Vince: Represents Norman’s childhood insecurities, reminding him of simpler times.
- Theodore: Adds a layer of complexity, blending absurdity with potential heroism.
Feldman expertly calibrates Norman’s reactions, illustrating how we all change based on who we’re with.
Cinematic Style and Unique Storytelling
One of the film’s most innovative elements is its unique storytelling style. Many scenes feature Norman in the foreground while action unfolds behind him, capturing the chaos of the party while maintaining focus on his emotional journey. This stylistic choice:
- Enhances Engagement: Viewers see the world through Norman’s eyes, creating an intimate connection.
- Adds Depth: Background characters are given their own stories, contributing to the overall narrative.
This technique ensures that the film feels alive, with every character adding to the richness of the setting.
Conclusion: Why You Should See The Birthday
After 20 long years, The Birthday is finally getting the attention it deserves. Corey Feldman’s masterful performance showcases his range as an actor and presents a compelling narrative that explores anxiety, transformation, and the unexpected strength that lies within us all.
So mark your calendars for October 11 and prepare to witness a film that is not just a story but a journey into the human experience. If you’re a fan of dark comedies or simply want to see a unique perspective on life’s challenges, this is a must-watch.
