Starling (film)

Starling_Film_Poster

Starling is a 2021 American comedy-drama film directed by Theodore Melfi and written by Matt Harris. The film stars Melissa McCarthy, Chris O'Dowd, Kevin Kline, Timothy Olyphant, Daveed Diggs, Skyler Gisondo, and Loretta Devine. The film was released on Netflix on September 24, 2021.

Plot[edit | edit source]

The story follows Lilly Maynard (Melissa McCarthy) and her husband Jack (Chris O'Dowd) as they navigate the aftermath of a personal tragedy. Jack is in a mental health facility, struggling with depression, while Lilly tries to maintain their home and garden. A persistent starling bird begins to harass Lilly, leading her to seek advice from a quirky psychologist-turned-veterinarian, Dr. Larry Fine (Kevin Kline). Through her interactions with Dr. Fine and her battle with the starling, Lilly begins to confront her own grief and find a path to healing.

Cast[edit | edit source]

Melissa McCarthy as Lilly Maynard
Chris O'Dowd as Jack Maynard
Kevin Kline as Dr. Larry Fine
Timothy Olyphant as Travis Delp
Daveed Diggs as Ben
Skyler Gisondo as Dickie
Loretta Devine as Velma

Production[edit | edit source]

The film was announced in 2017 with Theodore Melfi set to direct and Melissa McCarthy and Chris O'Dowd attached to star. Filming took place in New York and California.

Release[edit | edit source]

Starling premiered at the Toronto International Film Festival on September 12, 2021, before being released on Netflix on September 24, 2021.

Reception[edit | edit source]

The film received mixed reviews from critics, who praised the performances of the cast, particularly Melissa McCarthy and Kevin Kline, but criticized the screenplay and tone.