Rediscovering The Birthday: A Journey 20 Years in the Making
Corey Feldman and filmmaker Eugenio Mira have a special gift for fans of their film, The Birthday. After 20 years, this lost 2004 Fantastic Fest selection is making a triumphant return to screens. Originally premiering at the Sitges Festival Internacional de Cinema Fantàstic de Catalunya in December 2004, the film made its U.S. debut at the first-ever Fantastic Fest in Austin the following year. The Birthday immediately became a standout at the festival, blending genre elements with captivating performances, particularly Corey Feldman’s quirky portrayal of Norman, a bumbling nice guy caught up in supernatural chaos during a family celebration at a luxurious hotel.
The film’s U.S. premiere was a hit, but then it disappeared without a trace for nearly two decades. Now, a 4K restoration has brought The Birthday back to the spotlight, with special screenings on Oct. 1 and a wider release on Oct. 11. This revival marks the completion of a journey that began in 2005 when longtime Alamo Drafthouse programmer Kier-La Janisse discovered the film and championed it for the inaugural Fantastic Fest. Reflecting on the early days of the festival, Mira recalls the excitement of showcasing his work to a community of passionate film geeks in Austin, Texas.
A Meeting of Minds: Corey Feldman and Eugenio Mira
Despite their age difference, Corey Feldman and Eugenio Mira shared a deep connection through their work on The Birthday. Feldman, a Hollywood veteran known for iconic roles in 80s classics, saw in Mira a young Spielberg-like talent with a passion for filmmaking and pop culture. Mira, on the other hand, admired Feldman’s range as an actor and his ability to bring depth to the character of Norman. Together, they formed a close bond on set, collaborating to bring Norman’s journey to life in a unique and engaging way.
The script of The Birthday, influenced by British drama and eighties Americana, presented both challenges and opportunities for Feldman and Mira. While Norman’s character resonated with Feldman from the start, he also recognized the need to ground the story in a specific cultural context for authenticity. Mira’s meticulous approach to directing, characterized by long single takes and careful planning, allowed the actors to fully immerse themselves in the world of the film. This dedication to detail and authenticity set the stage for a truly memorable cinematic experience.
The Road to Restoration: Bringing The Birthday Back to Life
After years of searching for the rights and materials needed to restore The Birthday, Eugenio Mira’s efforts have finally paid off. The painstaking restoration process, overseen by Mira himself, has brought the film back to its original glory in stunning 4K resolution. With the support of dedicated fans like Jordan Peele, The Birthday is set to captivate audiences once again on the big screen. For Feldman, this revival is the realization of a prediction he made to Mira back in 2005 – a testament to the enduring legacy of their collaborative work.
As The Birthday returns to theaters for a limited engagement on Oct. 1 and a wider release on Oct. 11, fans old and new will have the opportunity to experience this lost gem of Fantastic Fest history. The journey of The Birthday, from its humble beginnings to its triumphant restoration, is a testament to the power of creativity, collaboration, and the enduring magic of cinema. Don’t miss your chance to celebrate this milestone event in film history – join Corey Feldman, Eugenio Mira, and the cast and crew of The Birthday for a night to remember.
