Claire Foy Soars in ‘H is for Hawk’ with Captivating Avian Companion

Claire Foy captivates audiences in “H is for Hawk,” a drama that explores themes of grief and resilience through the lens of falconry. The film, directed by Philippa Lowthorpe, is based on the 2014 memoir by Helen Macdonald. It delves into the emotional journey of a woman coping with the loss of her father.

Plot Overview

In “H is for Hawk,” Claire Foy portrays Helen, who grapples with the profound sadness after her father’s death. Her father, Alisdair, played by Brendan Gleeson, was a photographer whose loss leaves Helen feeling disoriented. Seeking companionship, she decides to adopt a goshawk.

Choosing the Hawk

Helen faces a crucial decision when selecting her hawk. She has the option of two birds but opts for the one that poses more challenges. This choice sets her on a path of demanding responsibility and emotional turmoil. As she immerses herself in training Mable, her hawk, she begins to isolate from friends and family.

The Challenges of Grief and Hawk Training

The film does not shy away from portraying the darker aspects of Helen’s journey. Her emotional state deteriorates, as evidenced by her neglect of personal care and the visible marks left by training incidents with Mable. Friends express concern for her well-being as she becomes increasingly absorbed in her bond with the bird.

The Directorial Vision

Philippa Lowthorpe’s direction emphasizes raw emotional honesty. The narrative avoids sanitized resolutions often seen in similar stories. Instead, it portrays grief as a complex and non-linear experience. The film respects the intricacies of both mourning and the demanding art of hawk training.

Critical Reception

• Grade: B
• Rated: PG-13 for strong language and smoking
• Running Time: 115 minutes

With its authentic portrayal of grief, “H is for Hawk” stands out as a compelling narrative. Foy’s performance alongside Mable is both poignant and thought-provoking, inviting audiences to reflect on the healing power of friendship in times of sorrow.