Discover How The Who Inspired a Memorable Scene in Benedict Cumberbatch’s Latest Film!

The Thing With Feathers isn’t just inspired by a book. It also draws creativity from an unexpected place—the album cover of The Who’s 1979 release, The Kids Are Alright.

This film premiered at the 2025 Sundance Film Festival, where director Dylan Southern discussed how the album influenced a key scene in the story.

The drama centers on a character called Dad, played by Benedict Cumberbatch. He’s a young widower trying to raise his two sons after the sudden loss of his wife. His grief takes the form of a giant crow that looms over his home. This crow is both a frightening presence and a protective figure. One memorable scene shows the crow sitting on a couch, wrapping its wings around Cumberbatch and his two boys, creating a feeling of safety amidst their pain.

This moment comes from Max Porter’s novella, which is the original source for the film. However, it’s also a tribute to an iconic British band. Southern explained that the cover shows The Who wrapped in the Union Jack, and that image inspired this tender moment in the film.

Cumberbatch expressed his strong connection to the project. He shared that when he first read the novella, it deeply affected him. Southern’s vision and their collaborative friendship convinced him that they could create something special. Cumberbatch admired Southern’s passion for film and his unique ability to blend various elements to create a rich narrative.

The role posed challenges for Cumberbatch as well. He mentioned the difficulty in balancing his character’s emotional detachment with the need to connect with the child actors. He aimed to create a friendly atmosphere on set, striving to be both a flawed dad in the film and a supportive figure off-camera. This duality made his experience rewarding and fun, allowing him to find joy in the acting process.

Overall, The Thing With Feathers offers a unique blend of sorrow and tenderness. Through its rich visuals and emotional storytelling, it invites viewers to explore themes of grief and connection.