Birdy (1984)

In the heart of Philadelphia, Al and Birdy, two seemingly mismatched friends, form a bond in high school. Al, the outgoing athlete, and Birdy, the introverted bird enthusiast, manage to find common ground despite their starkly contrasting personalities. Birdy's obsession with avian creatures is so intense that it prompts Al to affectionately bestow upon him his nickname. Their friendship is tested when they return from the Vietnam War, both significantly altered. Al carries the visible scars of battle, his face a testament to the physical trauma endured, demanding extensive reconstructive surgeries. Birdy, on the other hand, bears the invisible wounds of war. Reported missing in action for a month, he returns silent, trapped in a near-catatonic state, his spirit seemingly lost in the war-torn jungles of Vietnam. Despite grappling with his own post-war demons, Al ventures to the institution where Birdy is confined. He is determined to pierce through Birdy's silent armor, even if it means clashing with the presiding authorities about the nature of Birdy's pre-war mental state. Armed with shared memories and an unwavering commitment to his friend, Al embarks on a mission to draw Birdy out of his self-imposed isolation, even as he grapples with his own psychological recovery. The film paints a poignant portrait of friendship, survival, and the struggle to reclaim one's sense of self in the aftermath of war.

Birdy is a drama movie featuring Matthew Modine and directed by Alan Parker.

Birdy is currently streaming on Amazon Prime Video.

It is also possible to buy Birdy on AMC on Demand, Amazon Video, Apple TV, DIRECTV, Google Play Movies, Vudu and YouTube.