Starring Claire Foy as Helen, who, after the sudden death of her father (Brendan Gleeson), loses herself in the memories of their time birding and exploring the natural world together and turns the ancient art of falconry—rooted in European tradition—training a wild goshawk named Mabel to navigate her profound loss. But as she teaches Mabel to hunt and fly free, Helen discovers how deeply she has neglected her own emotions and life. What begins as an act of endurance transforms into an intimate journey of resilience and healing.
Official Selection:
Telluride Film Festival
Zurich Film Festival
BFI London Film Festival
Torino Film Festival
San Diego International Film Festival
Palm Springs International Film Festival
The goshawk reminds us how enthusiastically humans project themselves on to the animal kingdom. The film reminds us how limiting these analogies can be. -Irish Times
It approaches its subject with respect and doesn’t pretend to offer easy answers for complicated matters. Grief is difficult, as is hawk training, and Lowthorpe’s film treats both with proper reverence. -Detroit Free News
Grief is an individual journey, but it’s possible to see the universal agony of mourning a parent in this very specific, well-acted, intelligent tale of loss and recovery. -AARP Movies for Grownups
A prestige drama it may be, but it’s at its best when it’s a little messy and wild, and content to let the feathers fly. -Daily Telegraph (UK)
Foy is terrific in a film which balances bruising candour about mental health issues against arresting wildlife photography and a fervent appreciation of the natural world. -Screen International
PG-13, 115min
