On May 16, 2024, actor Barry Keoghan attended the Cannes Film Festival for the premiere of Andrea Arnold's new drama, "Bird." The film received a seven-minute standing ovation from festival-goers. Directed by Arnold, known for "American Honey" and "Fish Tank," "Bird" features an ensemble cast that includes Jasmine Jobson, Franz Rogowski, and child actor Nykiya Adams. The story centers around 12-year-old Bailey and her encounters with a mysterious stranger named Bird.
Keoghan, who stars in the film, expressed joy over the reception. Arnold also acknowledged the applause, expressing her desire to celebrate the moment.
"Bird" highlights themes of social realism, depicting a fractured family and their interactions with an enigmatic figure. At the press conference, Keoghan drew parallels between his own working-class upbringing in Dublin and the characters in "Bird." Despite mixed reviews, critics like The Telegraph’s Tim Robey and The Guardian’s Peter Bradshaw have praised the film’s performances and direction.
Earlier in the week, actor Chris Hemsworth experienced a similar emotional moment at Cannes with his film "Furiosa: A Mad Max Saga," which also received a standing ovation. Cannes remains a prestigious platform, known for honoring films that often go on to achieve critical acclaim and Oscar recognition.