Corey Feldman claims that his performance in “The Birthday” is his favorite ever. And it is easy to see why. The actor carries this allegorical cult film as Norman Forrester, a young man who is nervous about meeting his girlfriend Alison’s (Erica Prior) parents at her father’s (Jack Taylor) birthday party. His anxiety increases after several awkward exchanges, leading him to admit, “I feel like the wrong corpse at the wrong funeral.” Then things get really weird as Norman learns of something sinister and life-threatening. But as he tries to save folks, no one will listen to him.
Feldman’s performance is very distinctive and intentional. He speaks in a nasally tone that sounds whiny even when he is sincere. His body language is coiled until he really gets scared by the situation he is trying to prevent. When Norman is given a gun, Feldman expresses his discomfort and empowerment with aplomb.
The 2004 film has gone largely unseen since it was made. Jordan Peele screened “The Birthday” in Lincoln Center earlier this year. It will finally get an American theatrical release on October 11, after a screening at Fantastic Fest.
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