Birds Do It

"Birds Do It" is a somewhat forgotten gem from the 1966 Hollywood vault starring the uniquely talented Soupy Sales, Tab Hunter, and Arthur O'Connell. This comedy film, directed by Andrew Marton, integrates humor, adventure, and science fiction and offers a delightful throwback to the classic slapstick humor that was prevalent during this era.

The movie centers around the life of Melvin Byrd (Soupy Sales), who hails from a humble background and lives an ordinary life in an unimpressive setting, much removed from the shiny lights of luxury and fame. Melvin Byrd works as a high-rise window washer, content with his mundane life and humdrum routine until an extraordinary event changes the trajectory of his life.

Melvin Byrd finds himself in an unforeseen event where he gets shocked by a scientist's new contraption and acquires the ability to fly. To clarify, Byrd doesn't grow wings or anything as outlandish - he has the power to levitate his body at will and soar into the sky, much like a bird but without the avian features. This premise paints a colorful backdrop to a film that scales great heights, figuratively and literally.

Tab Hunter plays the role of the renowned scientist, Professor Quackenbush. While Arthur O'Connell portrays the eccentric philanthropist and millionaire, Oliver Pettibone. These characters add depth to the film, their personal agendas and ideologies often colliding with Melvin's new reality, causing amusing, often hilarious sequences.

The film seamlessly transitions from a regular guy's simple life to exotic and daring adventures showcasing meticulously constructed sky-borne scenes. These sequences embody the audacity of the 60s cinema and the impeccable creativity it was known for. Not surprisingly, the quintessential charm of this film lies in its unique narrative, combined with the cast's ability to deliver the unforeseen premise.

As his unique skills set him apart from the regular man, Melvin Byrd turns into a local and national sensation overnight, earning the attention he never anticipated. This sudden turn of events brings much excitement but also a fair share of trouble into Melvin's life. He finds himself grappling with his newfound ability in adjusting to the radically changed version of his life, inundated with popularity and wealth, amidst the laughter of the audience and the quirky, eclectic soundtrack.

"Birds Do It" intelligently utilizes its protagonist's transition from an ordinary window washer to a man of extraordinary abilities to critique society's thoughts on power, fame, and human potential. Despite its portrayal of a man with the capability to fly, the narrative remains firmly grounded in a humanistic approach and relatable issues.

The slapstick comedy elements make the film a delightfully hilarious narrative. However, the film was not limited by only serving laughter. It also touched the emotional chords of the audience by exploring deep-rooted human dilemmas to leave enduring interpretations. This oscillation between light-hearted humor and poignant emotional substance that "Birds Do It" possesses, maintains the charm and engagement factors for the audience throughout the film.

The lead actors, with their sheer talent and charisma, bring authenticity and warmth to their roles. Soupy Sales makes for an endearing Melvin Byrd, delivering his one-liners with absolute perfection and offering the audience a character to root for. Tab Hunter and Arthur O'Connell, with their remarkable performance, further elevate the essence of this comedy film.

Moreover, the movie has fantastic supporting characters who add more fun and depth to the tale. They are woven into the film in a way that their interaction with the lead characters amplifies the film's comedy quotient, making it a viewing delight.

"Birds Do It" is like a breath of fresh air in the panorama of 60s Hollywood cinema, which was heavily populated with heavy dramas and thrillers. It stands as a testament to the versatility of the era that could so greatly accommodate such a light-hearted, amusing, and endearing movie.

In conclusion, "Birds Do It" is a film of its own kind - a classic piece that captures the essence of the 60s humor, the concept of fame, and its repercussions. It offers a fun and engaging way to spend a nostalgic evening, reliving the joy of old Hollywood comedy.