Bird (1988)

VHS CASE/SIDE

Length of film: 161 Minutes

Rated: R

Genre: Drama, Biography, Music

Director: Clint Eastwood

Starring: Forest Whitaker, Diane Venora, Michael Zelniker, Samuel E. Wright, Keith David, Michael McGuire, James Handy, Bill Cobbs,

IMDB Rank: 7.2/10

Part 1 Time:  110 Minutes

Part 2 Time:   51 Minutes

Where does the first part end? Bird finishes recording in the a New York City recording studio.

Final line of dialogue on the first part: “She’s the mother of three lovely children.” Charlie Parker (Forest Whitaker) answers back to another recording artist.

First line of dialogue on the second part: “Daddy!” Charlie Parker’s children shout as he returns home.

How jarring is it when the first part ends? Minimal, Charlie Parker is at the top of his game. His common-law wife Chan (Diane Venora) and children have moved into a better apartment. Charlie is still battling his substance abuse issues and an ever-changing music scene.

Which part is better? In part one, we are able to not only see Charlie Parker’s achievements in the American Jazz scene, but also his constant struggle with substance abuse. Part two, is much the same, but with the added stress of the New York city entertainment changing. Part one is significantly better as we are able to see Charlie’s musical performances and talent as he tours across North America.

Academy Awards: Best Sound