The Thing with Feathers, a new British drama helmed by Benedict Cumberbatch, will land in UK cinemas on Friday, 7 November.
Based on Max Porter's debut novel, Grief Is the Thing with Feathers, the film follows Dad (Cumberbatch), an unnamed father struggling with the loss of his beloved wife, while raising his two sons.
As the lives of Dad and his boys continue to unravel, the family is, quite literally, confronted and stalked by grief in the form of Crow, an uninvited houseguest voiced by David Thewlis. Adapted and directed by Dylan Southern, the film also stars Vinette Robinson and Sam Spruell.
The movie, which premiered earlier this year at the 2025 Sundance Film Festival and the 75th Berlin International Film Festival, has already received mixed reviews on Rotten Tomatoes.
Among them, Looper hailed it as "an inescapably compelling drama" while commending Cumberbatch on his "all-in performance".
Related: Olivia Colman and Benedict Cumberbatch battle in hilarious trailer for The Roses
What to Read Next
Meanwhile, RogerEbert.com has stated that while there are "impressive" elements, ultimately the film "takes forever to get where it's going". Based on critics' reviews, The Thing with Feathers currently holds a rating of 53%.
Speaking with Variety, Cumberbatch explained that the role of Dad was easy to tap into. "This character is as near to me as any others I've played, to be honest. The middle class, the father, being in northwest London. It all felt very real and I had immediate access to it," he said.
Revealing what drew him to the project, Cumberbatch added that the film "shines a light on male grief", which is itself a rare theme and a welcome "challenge" to portray.
Related: Best film and TV tours for 2025
Cumberbatch has a busy year ahead, with several movies slated to land in cinemas. Following the release of The Phoenician Scheme in May, the Marvel star will next appear in The Roses alongside Olivia Colman, Andy Samberg, Kate McKinnon, Allison Janney and Ncuti Gatwa. The film is expected to be released in the UK on 1 September.
The Thing with Feathers will be released in UK cinemas on 7 November.
Digital Spy's new print issue is here! Buy Oasis - Live in '25 in newsagents or online, now priced at just £8.99.
