The Must-Have Item of Pride 2024: Target's "Movie Star Featherly Bird Friend"

The unexpected must-have item of Pride 2024 has taken the form of a $5 bird figurine from Target, known as the "Movie Star Featherly Bird Friend." This decorative piece, inspired by Tippi Hedren's character in Alfred Hitchcock's 1963 horror film "The Birds," has become a sought-after collectible, with fans eagerly hunting for it.

Popularity and Scarcity

Despite its modest price, the bird figurine has been incredibly difficult to find. Social media is buzzing with users sharing their unsuccessful attempts to purchase the item. NBC News also attempted to buy the figurine, only to discover it was sold out. By Tuesday afternoon, eBay listings revealed resellers offering the figurine for as much as $41.99.

Target describes the figurine as an homage to a bygone era of Hollywood, emphasizing its vintage style. The description reads, "Celebrate a bygone era of Hollywood with the vintage style of this Pride Movie Star Featherly Friend. Crafted from styrofoam and fabric, this stylish decorative bird figure is perfectly sized for adding a delightful accent to a shelf, mantel, or tabletop."

Cultural Connection

While the connection to queer culture may not be immediately obvious, "The Birds" was once included in The Advocate magazine's list of "17 Horror Films Only LGBT People Understand." Hitchcock's films are often noted for their queer subtexts, and "The Birds" is no exception. Although the film focuses on the relationship between Hedren's character Melanie and Mitch, played by Rod Taylor, several scenes highlight the intimate moments between Melanie and Annie, played by Suzanne Pleshette.

“It’s her scenes with Mitch’s spurned friend Annie (a sumptuously husky-voiced and decidedly pants-sporting Suzanne Pleshette) that sizzle with tension,” according to The Advocate. These scenes have become iconic, leading to YouTube mash-ups celebrating their dynamic.

Accompanying Collectibles

Target is also selling a toy car designed to resemble the Aston Martin that Hedren drives in the film, complete with a license plate that reads “Pride.” This adds another layer of collectibility to the figurine.

Online Reactions and Comparisons

Some online commentators have drawn comparisons between the Target bird and Cate Blanchett's character in Todd Haynes' 2015 film "Carol," which is explicitly about queer love. At least one social media user has dubbed the figurine "the Carol bird."

Many who managed to acquire the "Pride Bird" shared their success on social media. One Instagram creator reviewed Target’s 2024 Pride collection and documented his quest to find the bird at two different Target locations, expressing surprise at its popularity. "I had no idea these were so popular. It's like cutthroat out here," he remarked, adding that the bird was "even cuter in person."

Previous Success and Current Context

Target's 2023 "Drag Queen Bird" went viral last year, with numerous posts about it on TikTok. This year, despite announcing a scaled-back Pride collection following significant backlash last summer, the retailer has once again captured the public's imagination with its Pride-themed collectibles.

Target's Response

As of now, Target has not responded to requests for comment regarding the overwhelming demand and rapid sellout of the "Movie Star Featherly Bird Friend."

Broader Impact and Market Trends

The phenomenon surrounding the "Movie Star Featherly Bird Friend" reflects a broader trend in the market where limited-edition items tied to cultural and social movements gain significant traction. These collectibles often resonate deeply with niche communities, creating a sense of belonging and celebration. The rapid sellout and subsequent resale market boom underscore the high demand and cultural value placed on such items.

Collector Community and Social Media Influence

The role of social media cannot be overstated in driving the popularity of the "Pride Bird." Platforms like Instagram, TikTok, and Twitter have become vital in spreading the word and creating hype around new and unique products. Collectors and influencers often share their finds, creating a viral effect that amplifies interest and demand. The "Movie Star Featherly Bird Friend" has benefited immensely from this digital word-of-mouth, becoming a symbol of Pride and inclusivity.

Impact on Target's Brand and Future Collections

Target's success with this item highlights the importance of understanding and catering to diverse consumer bases. By tapping into themes of inclusivity and nostalgia, Target has managed to create a product that resonates on multiple levels. This success may encourage the retailer to continue exploring and expanding its range of culturally and socially relevant products in future collections.

Conclusion

The fervor surrounding Target's "Movie Star Featherly Bird Friend" underscores the cultural significance and appeal of unique Pride-themed items. This figurine has not only resonated with collectors but also highlighted the intersection of classic cinema and queer culture, becoming a symbol of Pride 2024. As fans continue to search for this elusive item, its status as a coveted collectible only grows. The overwhelming demand and vibrant community response illustrate the powerful impact that thoughtfully designed and culturally significant products can have in the marketplace.