Review: 'Place to Be' - A Peculiar Yet Touching Cinematic Journey

"Place to Be," a film directed by Kornél Mundruczó, offers a quirky yet emotionally resonant narrative, blending elements of a road trip comedy with a sentimental drama. The movie, which debuted at the Venice Film Festival, largely relies on the seasoned performance of its lead actress, Ellen Burstyn, to navigate its more unconventional plot points. Despite some narrative choices that might test audience credulity, Burstyn's profound portrayal imbues the story with a compelling sense of realism and charm. The film explores themes of companionship and finding connection in unexpected places, as an unlikely trio embarks on a journey that reshapes their lives.

A Cinematic Journey from Chicago to New York: The Story of 'Place to Be'

In a unique cinematic offering, veteran actress Ellen Burstyn, alongside Taika Waititi and Pamela Anderson, takes center stage in Kornél Mundruczó's new film, "Place to Be." The movie, which screened out of competition at the Venice Film Festival on September 9, 2026, presents a heartwarming, if occasionally unusual, tale. Burstyn, portraying Brooke, a solitary yet spirited widow, discovers a racing pigeon in her Chicago abode. This avian encounter sets her on an extraordinary cross-country expedition to New York, aiming to reunite the pigeon with its rightful owner. As Brooke prepares for her train journey, fate intervenes, introducing her to Nelson, a down-on-his-luck real estate agent played by Taika Waititi, who is grappling with the pressures of selling a luxury apartment in Tribeca. Initially, their interactions are marked by a blend of friction and camaraderie, but circumstances compel them to spend more time together, first en route to Manhattan, and then in the city itself when Brooke faces a housing predicament.

Their evolving relationship forms the core of the narrative, punctuated by their shared responsibility for the pigeon, affectionately named Intruder. The film's storyline sees them visiting a rooftop pigeon coop in Bushwick, managed by Lena Waithe's character, and later traveling to New Jersey to witness a pigeon race. Director Mundruczó, known for his ability to craft memorable animal sequences, employs a mix of practical effects and CGI to bring these scenes to life. While Pamela Anderson appears in a supporting role as Molly, Brooke's daughter, her character remains largely in the periphery. A subtle undertone in the story suggests the pigeon might symbolize Brooke's departed husband, a renowned painter. However, the bird primarily serves as a narrative catalyst, fostering the growing bond between Brooke and Nelson. Despite moments that verge on the overly sentimental, particularly in the film's concluding act, the narrative ultimately celebrates a peculiar yet enduring friendship among three disparate souls in search of affection.

"Place to Be" offers a delightful reflection on the unexpected forms human connection can take, highlighting how individuals from different walks of life can forge meaningful bonds. It underscores the idea that companionship can emerge from the most improbable situations, teaching us that empathy and mutual support are essential elements in navigating life's journey. The film encourages viewers to embrace the serendipity of encounters and to find beauty in the unconventional, ultimately leaving a lingering sense of warmth and optimism about the human spirit.