Imagine grappling with overwhelming grief after losing a parent, only to find solace in the wild, untamed world of falconry—training a fierce bird of prey as a way to mend a shattered heart. That's the gripping essence of H Is for Hawk, and it's exactly why this story has captivated readers and now, audiences worldwide. But here's where it gets personal: What if healing didn't come from therapy or human support, but from an ancient bond with nature? Stick around as we dive into the latest adaptation that'll have you questioning your own paths to recovery.
Let's rewind to the man at the center of it all. Alisdair Macdonald wasn't just any British photojournalist; he was a legend in his field, having served as a dedicated staffer for the Daily Mirror and famously capturing iconic moments with The Beatles. Beyond his professional accolades, he was a passionate falconer—a master of the art of training birds of prey—and an adored dad. When he unexpectedly passed away in 2007, it hit his child, the talented writer Helen Macdonald—who identifies as non-binary—particularly hard. Helen's world crumbled, but instead of succumbing to despair, they embarked on an unconventional journey of healing.
Fast-forward to 2014, and Helen poured their raw emotions into a memoir titled H Is for Hawk. This wasn't just any book; it was a heartfelt exploration of grief, interwoven with the story of adopting and training a young Eurasian goshawk named Mabel, inspired by their father's love for falconry. For beginners curious about this ancient practice, falconry involves training birds like hawks to hunt and return to their handler—think of it as a symbiotic partnership rooted in trust and skill, dating back centuries in European traditions. The book wasn't just emotionally resonant; it became a massive success, topping bestseller lists and snagging prestigious awards like the Samuel Johnson Prize and the Costa Book of the Year. It's a testament to how sharing personal struggles can resonate universally, offering readers a window into turning loss into something powerful.
Now, almost two decades after Alisdair's passing, this poignant tale is soaring onto the big screen. Directed by Philippa Lowthorpe, with a screenplay co-written by Lowthorpe and acclaimed author Emma Donoghue (best known for Room), the film brings Helen's story to life. Claire Foy steps into the role of Helen with remarkable depth, and a skilled raptor portrays the fierce Mabel. Joining the cast are talented actors like Denise Gough, Sam Spruell, and Lindsay Duncan, adding layers to the narrative.
According to the official synopsis, H Is for Hawk chronicles Helen's (played by Foy) turmoil following her father's sudden death (portrayed by Brendan Gleeson). Overwhelmed by memories of their shared adventures birding and immersing themselves in nature, Helen dives into falconry—training a wild goshawk, Mabel—to cope with her profound sorrow. As she guides Mabel to hunt and soar freely, Helen uncovers how much she's been neglecting her own emotional well-being and daily life. What starts as a grueling test of endurance evolves into a deeply personal odyssey of strength and renewal. It's a beautiful metaphor for growth: just like teaching a bird to trust and return, sometimes we need to confront our pain head-on to truly heal.
The film made its debut at the Telluride Film Festival in September, and our critic David Ehrlich praised it in his review, noting how it truly shines in the scenes of Helen training Mabel. He described the process of building trust—getting the bird to respond to calls and join in hunts—as mesmerizing. Ehrlich pointed out that the bond develops slowly; at first, Foy portrays Helen as someone wielding a 'killing machine' on her arm, evoking a sense of raw power. Despite the actress's extensive training, there's a thrilling authenticity to her performance, much like witnessing Tom Cruise defy gravity on a motorcycle or imagining Werner Herzog's audacious feats (even if not literal). It's that visceral excitement of real-world challenges that makes these moments unforgettable.
And this is the part most people miss: Is using an animal for emotional therapy ethical, or does it blur the line between companionship and exploitation? Some might argue it's empowering, a nod to nature's healing power, while others could see it as burdening a creature with human baggage. What do you think—does falconry in stories like this glorify a controversial practice, or does it highlight beautiful, unconventional ways to process grief? We'd love to hear your take in the comments; agree or disagree, share your thoughts!
Roadside Attractions is set to release H Is for Hawk in theaters starting December for a limited qualifying run, followed by a nationwide expansion on January 23, 2026. Don't miss the chance to experience this emotional rollercoaster—check out the first trailer below and get ready to reflect on your own journeys of loss and recovery.
