Watch Free Byrd

Free Byrd is a 2021 indie drama film that has its fair share of comedy and emotional moments. Directed by Tony Vidal and written by Kenneth Del Vecchio and Michael Mongillo, the movie stars legendary actor Raymond J. Barry in the lead role of William Byrd, a man who escapes from prison to fulfill his lifelong dream of becoming a country music singer. The film also features an ensemble cast that includes Shondrella Avery, Jeanne Young, Jayce Bartok, and Rome Caesar.

The story of Free Byrd revolves around the life of William Byrd, who has spent more than 30 years in jail for a crime he claims he didn't commit. However, he has become a model prisoner, having earned the respect of his fellow inmates and the prison staff. Despite his good behavior, the parole board continuously denies his request to be released from prison. Byrd has one dream in life, and that is to become a singer, following in the footsteps of his idol Hank Williams.

One day, Byrd hatches a plan that will allow him to escape from prison and pursue his dream of becoming a famous country music singer. With the help of his cellmate, Spoonie (Rome Caesar), Byrd fakes his death and is escorted out of the prison under the pretense of being transported to a funeral. He is met by his daughter, who is unaware of Byrd's plan, and together they embark on a road trip to Nashville, where Byrd plans to audition for a singing competition.

As they travel across the country, Byrd and his daughter, Jolene (Shondrella Avery), bond and reconcile their strained relationship. Along the way, they encounter various obstacles, including a run-in with the law and a showdown with a gang of bikers. However, they keep pushing ahead, fueled by Byrd's determination to make it to Nashville and audition for the singing competition.

Their journey is not an easy one, and they face many hurdles along the way. However, the audiences are kept engaged as the father and daughter set out on a journey, not just in pursuit of Byrd's dream but also to mend their strained relationship. This road trip story is packed with comedy, emotion and excellent performances, it also has a heart that feels authentically small-scale.

The performances of the leads, Raymond J. Barry, and Shondrella Avery are exceptional. Raymond J. Barry delivers a heartfelt and poignant portrayal of the aging ex-convict, who is desperate to follow his passion no matter what the cost. His journey is not just in pursuit of his passion but also to make amends with his estranged daughter, with whom he gradually forms a bond. Shondrella Avery, on the other hand, is excellent as Jolene, a daughter who is reluctant to forgive her father for his past actions but is slowly drawn to him as they journey together.

The cinematography is also impressive, with the wide-open spaces and detailed shots of towns and cities providing an excellent backdrop for the father-daughter road trip. The film also features a memorable soundtrack of classic country music, which contributes to the uplifting and emotional tone of the movie.

In conclusion, Free Byrd is a heartfelt and poignant indie drama that manages to mix comedy with some emotional moments beautifully. Raymond J. Barry and Shondrella Avery's performances are standouts, delivering some of the most touching scenes of the film. The movie serves as a reminder that it's never too late to follow your dreams and that the journey towards that goal is sometimes more important than the destination itself.

Overall, if you are looking for an engaging and moving story with a great mix of humor and emotion, Free Byrd is definitely worth the watch. It's the perfect movie to enjoy with family and friends and will leave the audiences feeling inspired and uplifted.

Free Byrd is a 2021 comedy with a runtime of 1 hour and 29 minutes. It has received mostly poor reviews from critics and viewers, who have given it an IMDb score of 4.8.