Birth
It took Anna 10 years to recover from the death of her husband, Sean, but now she's on the verge of marrying her boyfriend, Joseph, and finally moving on. However, on the night of her engagement party, a young boy named Sean turns up, saying he is her dead husband reincarnated. At first she ignores the child, but his knowledge of her former husband's life is uncanny, leading her to believe that he might be telling the truth.
Critics Sentiment
Anna sits in contemplation during the extended theater sequence
Anna marries Joseph on the beach and wades into the ocean in anguish
The film peaks with Kidman's acclaimed theater closeup then steadily declines through the controversial kiss scene to the widely criticized ending
Birth opens with strong cinematic craft and an intriguing premise that captivates viewers, building to a transcendent moment with Kidman's extended closeup. However, the film becomes increasingly uncomfortable and divisive through its controversial middle section before ending on a widely criticized note that leaves too many questions unanswered. Critics appreciated the filmmaking artistry and performances while finding the narrative ultimately unsatisfying.
Full cast
Showing 20 of 46
Nicole Kidman
Anna
Cameron Bright
Young Sean
Danny Huston
Joseph
Lauren Bacall
Eleanor
Alison Elliott
Laura
Arliss Howard
Bob
Michael Desautels
Sean
Anne Heche
Clara
Peter Stormare
Clifford
Ted Levine
Mr. Conte
Cara Seymour
Mrs. Conte
Joe M. Chalmers
Sinclair
Novella Nelson
Lee
Zoe Caldwell
Mrs. Hill
Charles Goff
Mr. Drummond
Sheila Smith
Mrs. Drummond
Milo Addica
Jimmy
Mary Catherine Wright
Young Woman
Scott Johnsen
Caterer
Elizabeth Greenberg
Teacher
Crew
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