Melissa McCarthy, known for her comedic roles, showcases her versatility once again in the recently released film, The Starling. This comedy-drama delves into the lives of a married couple grappling with the devastating loss of their young baby. But how did Katie, the baby in the film, meet her untimely end?
The Starling: A Story of Grief and Healing
Directed by Theodore Melfi and starring Melissa McCarthy, Chris O’Dowd, and Timothy Olyphant, The Starling made its debut on Netflix on September 24th, 2021. The film follows Lilly and her husband, Jack, as they navigate the aftermath of their baby’s tragic death. Overwhelmed with grief, Jack seeks solace at a clinic, while Lilly is left to face the loss on her own.
To compound her pain, Lilly becomes the target of an aggressive starling that has taken up residence in her garden. Surprisingly, this unwelcome guest becomes an unexpected source of distraction, allowing Lilly to channel her attention and find a path toward healing.
Unveiling the Tragic Cause of Katie’s Death
In The Starling, Lilly and Jack’s baby, Katie, dies from SIDS (Sudden Infant Death Syndrome). Trying to cope with her loss, Lilly is advised to visit a veterinarian, despite not having a pet of her own. In her conversation with the psychologist-turned-veterinarian Dr. Larry Fine (played by Kevin Kline), she reveals that her daughter succumbed to SIDS one year earlier.
SIDS, also known as cot death or crib death, refers to the sudden and unexplained death of a child under the age of one. Most often occurring during sleep, SIDS leaves no signs of struggle or distress, leaving the exact cause a mystery. Sadly, SIDS is the primary cause of infant mortality in Western countries, accounting for half of all post-neonatal deaths, as stated by the National Center for Biotechnology Information.
Touching the Hearts of Netflix Viewers
The Starling has resonated deeply with Netflix viewers, leaving many emotionally moved. One Twitter user tearfully admitted, “The Starling got me bawling like a baby 😭.” Another viewer acknowledged the film’s powerful portrayal of mental health struggles and breakdowns in communication within relationships, stating, “This movie showcases it so well; it’s such a sad thing.”
A fan reflected on the emotional impact of the film, saying, “The Starling is an excellent film…and a total sobfest. I feel duty-bound to warn my friends with children and babies that the movie could be upsetting. But what a story of triumph over tragedy, the fortitude of spirit, and love. I can’t wait to watch it again.”
From the UK, a 51-year-old truck mechanic shared, “Wow… just sat and watched ‘The Starling’ that’s emotional!!! I’m not going to lie, I’m a 51-year-old truck mechanic in the UK. And that is hard to watch, so emotional. Had me crying like a baby. FANTASTIC FILM ❤❤❤ Thank you… 🙏”
Experience the Emotion of The Starling
If you’re ready to embark on a poignant and uplifting journey, The Starling is now available for streaming on Netflix. Prepare yourself for a heartfelt performance from Melissa McCarthy and a story that explores the depths of grief, the resilience of the human spirit, and the power of love.