“White Bird” Starring Helen Mirren and Gillian Anderson

Mark Forster, who brought us Finding Neverland, Christopher Robin and A Man Called Otto, directed White Bird. The story is from White Bird: A Wonder Story, by the best-selling author of Wonder.

The film follows Julian, played by Bryce Gheisar, who has struggled to belong. It all started when his former school expelled him for his treatment of Auggie Pullman.

Bryce Gheisar as Julian. Photo Credit: Julia Vrabelova

To transform his life, Julian’s grandmother, played by Helen Mirren, finally reveals her story of courage to Julian. During her youth in Nazi-occupied France, a boy shelters her from mortal danger.

Helen Mirren as Grandmère. Photo Credit: Courtesy of Lionsgate

In his grandmother’s story, we find first love in an enchanting, magical world of their creation, while the boy’s mother, played by Gillian Anderson, risks everything to keep her safe.

Gillian Anderson as Vivienne. Photo Credit: Courtesy of Lionsgate

Screenwriter Mark Bomback brings R.J. Palacio’s uplifting book to the screen, telling how one act of kindness can live forever.

Orlando Schwerdt as Julien and Ariella Glaser as Sara. Photo Credit: Larry Horricks

Other Marc Forster films:

A Man Called Otto

World War Z

Monster’s Ball

Finding Neverland

The Kite Runner

Quantum Solace