"Bird Box Barcelona" (2023) Movie on Netflix: Post-Apocalypse in Barcelona

Directed by Àlex Pastor and David Pastor, “Bird Box Barcelona” stars Mario Casas, Alejandra Howard, and Georgina Campbell. It is based on the novel by Josh Malerman.

“Bird Box Barcelona” takes a risk by changing the plot and deviating from the original, which may disappoint many. However, it kept us glued to the screen, eagerly awaiting its resolution.

While not the most original film of the season, it successfully achieves its goals with a well-executed premise and a captivating suspense.

Movie Review

Back in 2018, a film called Bird Box, starring Sandra Bullock, was released. At that time, Netflix was not the powerhouse production company it is today. However, that film played a significant role in shaping Netflix into what it is now, thanks to its audience.

Similar to Bird Box, this film may not receive exceptional reviews, but it will engage the audience, ultimately creating subscribers. It leaves a positive impression and firmly convinces us that one should not attempt to replicate what is already good. Sometimes, it is necessary to take risks and try something new, striving to surpass the predecessor.

Ultimately, it will be the audience, not film critics, who will decide if “Bird Box Barcelona” is a success. And we dare to predict that it will be.

“Bird Box Barcelona” presents an excellent premise with an actor who knows how to transform into each role, Mario Casas. He delivers in this film, as he always does, adapting to the character and providing exactly what the role requires. He maintains the film’s momentum and skillfully portrays the character’s moral ambiguity: is he a madman or does he have valid reasons for his actions? Casas skillfully explores the dichotomy of the character and, to some extent, interacts with the supporting cast on this journey towards the truth.

Were the quantum explanations of the phenomenon excessive? Yes, they were (or perhaps unnecessary altogether), but the mystery surrounding these creatures that induce suicide is compelling enough to continue captivating the viewer.
We enjoyed the setup more than the resolution, but that is a matter of personal preference.

Undoubtedly, this is a well-produced film that encompasses all the elements necessary to appeal to audiences, with the key elements of the post-apocalyptic genre and its inherent conditions. However, it also offers enough unique elements to engage, entertain, and leave a lasting impression on our subconscious.

Whether it succeeds or not, it will be up to the viewers to decide.

Our Opinion

“Bird Box Barcelona” is a good film that dares to flip the original premise and present a new formula. Although not entirely original, the screenplay, particularly Mario Casas’ character, is well-executed.

Plot

After the arrival of a mysterious presence that is decimating the world’s population, Sebastián embarks on a journey of survival through the desolate streets of Barcelona. Along the way, he encounters other survivors with whom he forms uncertain alliances in an attempt to escape the city. They soon realize that there is a new and unexpected threat that is even more dangerous.