The point of these reviews is simple: to give you a heads-up about some of the best movies you can watch without revealing spoilers, by hinting at what to expect. Okay, that sounds like one already, but really, it’s about a movie’s x-factors and why it’s worth your time. That way, you won’t get stuck watching a ‘boring’ movie simply because the YouTube trailer had a good viewership or hyped-up comments. Taste differs…, so let’s get into it… Little Wing (2024).
Directed by Dean Israelite and written by John Gatins, based on a 2006 New Yorker article of the same name by Susan Orlean, Little Wing is an American coming-of-age film about a troubled 13-year-old girl dealing with the emotional wreckage of her parents’ divorce and the looming loss of their house. In the headspace, she’s driven to steal a prized racing pigeon. Yes, pigeons race!
“Pigeon racing is the poor man’s horse racing.”
The film’s story revolves around Kaityln McKay, played by Brooklynn Prince (Known for her role as Moone in The Florida Project), and it taps into the same emotional energy that made the 2017 A24 film The Florida Project memorable for many.
The Story…
Even with pigeons at the heart of the plot, the Little Wings manages to balance Kaityln’s life at school, her friendship with Adam, played by Che Tafari, the man she steals The Granger bird from, and her strained family, older brother (Simon Khan) and divorced Mum (Kelly Reilly)
The cast is small, about 16 to 18 characters, but at least 90% of the supporting characters appear in more than two scenes. The story is straightforward but carries depth. It’s not trying to surprise you with twists, but in the best way possible, tells a story like it’s based on real events, even though it isn’t.
Little Wing (2024) Core Strength
No doubt, it’s a strong story with a great cast, including Brian Coz as Jaan, but it’s Brooklynn Prince who carries the film. Her performance here goes even deeper than what we saw in The Florida Project or Apple TV+’s Home Before Dark. She makes Kaityln feel raw, confused and believable.
“But I do feel that Britney Spears inspires me, and she did say… ‘Ding‑dang, y’all, I’m rich. It’s weird, but I’m really rich. I mean, ding‑dang, y’all.’ Free Britney.”
The cinematography? Solid! Though not as colourful or sun-soaked as The Florida Project, it works because its visuals match the tone of a grounded, quiet, and character-focused film rather than the scenery.
Can I watch Little Wings with Kids?
Rated PG-13, likely due to themes of depression, grief, and family instability. There are also references to death, a few emotional moments and some suspenseful scenes, but the overall tone remains hopeful, offering a glimpse into how kids process difficult transitions, such as their parents’ divorce or the fear of moving to a new place. I feel such movies are made for grown-ups or parents with children in the same age bracket. Not much happens, but it’s still enjoyable to watch, even after a tiring day. Most kids are drawn to more entertaining movies.
“I guess everyone lies to themselves. When was the last time I was happy? The school therapist said everyone feels overwhelmed. It’s normal. I’m feeling really normal right now.”
So, is Little Wing (2024) worth it?
Yes, if you’re into coming-of-age stories with real emotional weight, this one is a solid pick. And who knows, you might even consider keeping pigeons afterwards, but in the meantime, you can join our WhatsApp channel for more of this…
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