Imagine the raw sting of losing a parent suddenly, only to find solace in the untamed skies with a majestic bird of prey. That's the heart-wrenching journey at the center of the upcoming film 'H Is for Hawk,' where grief meets the wild beauty of falconry. But here's where it gets truly fascinating—how a simple act of training a goshawk can unlock layers of emotional healing, and it's a story that's about to soar onto the big screen. Stick around, because this tale isn't just about birds and books; it's a profound exploration of loss, resilience, and the human spirit that might just inspire you to reflect on your own ways of coping.
Let's dive into the roots of this captivating narrative. Alisdair Macdonald wasn't your average person; he was a renowned British photojournalist who spent years capturing iconic moments for the Daily Mirror, including documenting the legendary Beatles during their heyday. Beyond his professional fame, he was an avid falconer—a passionate practitioner of the ancient art of training birds of prey to hunt. And above all, he was a devoted father. Tragically, in 2007, Alisdair passed away unexpectedly, leaving his child, Helen Macdonald, devastated. Helen, who identifies as non-binary, grappled intensely with this loss, turning to falconry as a way to honor her father's legacy and process her pain.
Fast-forward to 2014, when Helen poured her experiences into a deeply emotional memoir titled 'H Is for Hawk.' In this book, she recounts adopting and training a young Eurasian goshawk named Mabel, drawing parallels to her father's love for the sport. For those new to this, falconry is an age-old tradition originating from Europe, where skilled handlers, known as falconers, form bonds with birds like hawks or falcons to hunt together. It's not just about chasing game; it's a metaphor for control, trust, and freedom. Helen's journey with Mabel becomes a therapeutic outlet, helping her navigate the depths of grief. The memoir struck a chord, becoming a bestseller and snagging prestigious awards like the Samuel Johnson Prize and the Costa Book of the Year. It's a reminder that healing isn't linear—sometimes, connecting with nature's fiercest creatures can provide the perspective we need to mend our broken hearts.
And this is the part most people miss—nearly two decades after Alisdair's passing, Helen's story is getting the cinematic glow-up it deserves. Directed by Philippa Lowthorpe, with a screenplay co-written by Lowthorpe and Emma Donoghue (the talented author behind 'Room'), the film brings Helen's world to life. Claire Foy steps into the role of Helen, delivering a performance that's sure to resonate, while a remarkably trained raptor portrays Mabel in all her wild glory. The supporting cast includes Denise Gough, Sam Spruell, and Lindsay Duncan, adding depth to this tale of familial loss.
According to the official synopsis, 'H Is for Hawk' follows Helen as she spirals into memories of birding adventures with her father, played by Brendan Gleeson, after his unforeseen death. She immerses herself in falconry, training Mabel to hunt and soar freely, all while confronting neglected emotions in her own life. What starts as a grueling endurance test evolves into a tender odyssey of strength and recovery. It's a story that underscores how activities rooted in tradition—falconry, with its European origins—can mirror our internal struggles, teaching us to face pain head-on rather than flee from it.
The film made its debut at the Telluride Film Festival in September, and critics are raving about its authenticity. Our reviewer, David Ehrlich, praised the scenes where Helen bonds with Mabel, noting how Foy embodies a mix of vulnerability and intensity. He described Helen as initially wielding Mabel like a powerful weapon on her arm, and while Foy underwent rigorous training, the real thrill comes from the genuine connection. Ehrlich compares it to adrenaline-pumping stunts, like Tom Cruise's daring motorcycle leaps or Werner Herzog's legendary feats—it's that visceral rush of witnessing something raw and real.
But here's where it gets controversial: Is falconry, with its themes of dominance over wildlife, truly a healthy path to healing, or could it be seen as exploiting animals in the name of personal growth? Some might argue it's empowering, a way to reclaim control after loss, while others question if it's ethical to train wild birds for human benefit. What do you think—does connecting with nature through such intense activities promote true resilience, or is it just a Band-Aid on deeper wounds? This film might challenge your views on grief therapy, blending tradition with modern emotional processing. And this is the part that sparks debate: In a world where mental health is often handled through therapy or medication, is turning to ancient practices like falconry a valid alternative, or does it risk romanticizing avoidance? I'd love to hear your thoughts in the comments—do you agree that nature-based healing can be transformative, or disagree and believe it's time to explore more contemporary methods?
Roadside Attractions is set to release 'H Is for Hawk' in December for a limited one-week run to qualify for awards, followed by a full nationwide release on January 23, 2026. Don't miss the chance to witness this emotional rollercoaster—check out the first trailer below and get ready to ponder the ties between humans, birds, and the art of letting go.
