
"Birdy" follows the poignant story of two young men grappling with the psychological aftermath of the Vietnam War. One friend, deeply fascinated by birds, begins to believe he is actually a bird, leading to his admission to a mental hospital. The other friend strives to support and help him recover from his mental struggles. Notably, the film features early performances by Nicolas Cage and Matthew Modine, both of whom delivered compelling portrayals that helped launch their careers. Director Alan Parker collaborated closely with composer Peter Gabriel, whose haunting score significantly amplifies the film's emotional depth. Additionally, the movie's meticulous attention to bird imagery was inspired by real avian behaviors, lending authenticity to the protagonist's unique mental state.