Man Is Not a Bird Poster

Man Is Not a Bird 1965

★ 6.022 votes72 min📅 1965-03-06

A quirky and poignant exploration of love and awkwardness unfolds in *Man Is Not a Bird (1965)*, Dušan Makavejev's sharp debut blending drama, romance, and comedy with a distinctly Yugoslav sensibility.

Director: Dušan Makavejev

Cast

Milena Dravić
Milena Dravić
Rajka
Janez Vrhovec
Janez Vrhovec
Jan Rudinski
Eva Ras
Eva Ras
Barbulova žena
Stole Aranđelović
Stole Aranđelović
Barbulović aka Barbul
Boris Dvornik
Boris Dvornik
Boško, vozač kamiona
Dušan Antonijević
Dušan Antonijević
Železničar
Dušan Janićijević
Dušan Janićijević
Predrag 'Preža' Milinković
Predrag 'Preža' Milinković
Danilo 'Bata' Stojković
Danilo 'Bata' Stojković
Mirjana Blašković

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Man Is Not a Bird (1965) about?

The film follows an older Serbian engineer who struggles with the simplest gestures of courtship, leading to a romantic entanglement that's as baffling as it is endearing. It's a slice-of-life story that pokes fun at societal norms while celebrating the messy, human side of love.

Who directed Man Is Not a Bird?

Dušan Makavejev, a visionary Serbian filmmaker known for blending dark humor with social critique, directed *Man Is Not a Bird*.

Who stars in Man Is Not a Bird?

The film features Milena Dravić, Janez Vrhovec, Eva Ras, Boris Dvornik, and Stole Aranđelović in standout roles.

Is Man Is Not a Bird (1965) worth watching?

With its unique blend of comedy and drama, *Man Is Not a Bird* offers a refreshing take on love stories. While not a mainstream hit, its cult appeal lies in Makavejev's bold style and the film's sharp, observational humor.

How long is Man Is Not a Bird?

The runtime of *Man Is Not a Bird* is 72 minutes.

🎥 Trailer

About Man Is Not a Bird (1965) — A Yugoslav Rom-Com That's Equal Parts Charming and Clever

A quirky and poignant exploration of love and awkwardness unfolds in *Man Is Not a Bird (1965)*, Dušan Makavejev's sharp debut blending drama, romance, and comedy with a distinctly Yugoslav sensibility. The story follows an older Serbian engineer as he navigates the clumsy yet earnest pursuit of a younger woman, revealing the absurdity and tenderness of human connections. Makavejev's direction infuses the film with a playful yet critical tone, dissecting societal expectations and the stumbling blocks of romance. The 72-minute runtime keeps the narrative tight, balancing humor with introspective moments that linger long after the credits roll.

Starring the radiant Milena Dravić as the younger woman and Janez Vrhovec as her besotted suitor, the cast brings depth and charm to this unconventional love story. Eva Ras and Boris Dvornik round out the ensemble, adding layers of wit and warmth. Shot in black-and-white, the film's visual style mirrors its themes of contrast—youth and experience, tradition and modernity—all wrapped in Makavejev's signature blend of satire and sincerity. Ideal for fans of character-driven comedies with a cerebral edge, *Man Is Not a Bird* is a time capsule of 1960s Eastern European cinema that still feels fresh today.