Review: “H Is for Hawk” Promises Tranquility and Hope
Grief can alter our perception of time in complex ways. While some individuals obsess over future possibilities, others reflect on past regrets or feel trapped in the present moment. The film “H Is for Hawk” explores these dynamics through the character of Helen MacDonald, portrayed by Claire Foy.
Plot Overview
Helen MacDonald is navigating the emotional turmoil following her father’s unexpected death. He was an award-winning photographer, and the loss leaves Helen feeling paralyzed. Despite her commitments at Cambridge, she struggles to plan her future.
To cope with her grief, Helen seeks solace in nature. She connects with Stuart, an old friend from her falconry days, to acquire a wild goshawk. This bird, named Mabel, symbolizes her need for companionship and healing.
Film Adaptation
“H Is for Hawk” is directed by Philippa Lowthorpe and adapted from MacDonald’s 2014 memoir. The film offers a fresh take on the relationship between humans and animals during times of grief. Unlike typical narratives, it presents a nonlinear and raw exploration of Helen’s emotional landscape.
As Helen trains Mabel, the bond they share becomes increasingly complex. Rather than facilitating her recovery, the relationship also deepens her withdrawal from the human world.
Visual Storytelling
The cinematography by Charlotte Bruus Christensen enhances the film’s impact. Viewers are captivated by Mabel’s movements and expressive eyes. The camera lingers on her interactions with Helen, highlighting their evolving relationship.
Scenes of Mabel hunting and her playful yet powerful demeanor emphasize her integral role in Helen’s journey. The film effectively showcases the wildness of falconry, drawing audiences into this unique experience.
Challenges in the Narrative Structure
While “H Is for Hawk” shines in its character exploration, the film’s structure falters at times. Adapting a memoir presents inherent challenges, as much of the emotional depth arises from an internal narrative. Helen’s reserved nature complicates the portrayal of her emotional journey.
Certain themes, such as Helen’s academic inquiries into societal impacts on science, feel underdeveloped. However, the film avoids oversimplifying grief, presenting it as a nuanced experience.
Exploring Themes of Grief and Healing
Throughout the film, the philosophy of Julian of Norwich, a 14th-century mystic, emerges. Her reflections on solitude and healing resonate with Helen’s journey. Through conversations with her friend Christina, Helen contemplates the interplay between grief and hope.
Julian’s words, “All shall be well, and all manner of things shall be well,” encapsulate the themes of endurance and perspective in the face of loss.
Final Thoughts
“H Is for Hawk” offers a poignant exploration of loss, companionship, and the healing process through the lens of falconry. The relationship between Helen and Mabel serves as a powerful metaphor for navigating grief. This evocative film, rated PG-13, encourages viewers to embrace their own emotional landscapes.
- Director: Philippa Lowthorpe
- Starring: Claire Foy, Brendan Gleeson, Sam Spruell, Denise Gough
- Running Time: 1 hour 54 minutes
- Theatrical Release: Available in theaters
