Warner Bros. and DC Films’ Birds Of Prey (dubbed from the Hollywood film of the same name; A) is an action drama and a superhero film. The story follows Harley Quinn (Margot Robbie) as she joins hands with Black Canary (Jurnee Smollett-Bell), Helena Bertinelli (Mary Elizabeth Winstead) and Renee Montoya (Rosie Perez) to save Cassandra Cain (Ella Jay Basco) from Gotham City crime lord Black Mask (Ewan McGregor).
Christina Hodson’s story is long-winding and also quite confusing at places. There are too many turns and twists but all of them are not engaging or interesting enough. While the action and stunts impress the audience, the story doesn’t register well enough to become an enjoyable and entertaining fare.
Margot Robbie is perfect in the role of Harley Quinn. Mary Elizabeth Winstead acts effectively as Helena Bertinelli. Jurnee Smollett-Bell makes her mark as Black Canary. Rosie Perez is good in the role of Renee Montoya. Ella Jay Basco provides fine support as Cassandra Cain. Ewan McGregor leaves a mark as crime lord Black Mask. Chris Messina has his moments as Victor Zsasz. Ali Wong (as Montoya’s ex-girlfriend, Ellen Yee), Steven Williams (as Captain Patrick Erickson), Dana Lee (as Harley Quinn’s friend, Doc), and the rest are adequate.
Cathy Yan’s direction is good but the narration could’ve made things simpler. Daniel Pemberton’s background music is impactful. Matthew Libatique’s camerawork is of a very good standard. K.K. Barrett’s production designing is appropriate. Editing (by Jay Cassidy and Evan Schiff) is sharp. Dubbing is alright.
On the whole, Birds Of Prey is an ordinary fare.
Released on 7-2-’20 at Gemini (daily 3 shows) and other cinemas of Bombay by Warner Bros. Pictures (India) Pvt. Ltd. Publicity: so-so. Opening: very ordinary. …….Also released all over. Opening was not up to the mark at most places.