Struck Down by the Birds

The circumstances under which Mitch and Annie's relationship fell apart provide interesting insight into the gender politics of the film. Mitch brings Annie up to meet his mother, Lydia, who in turn does not approve of the woman Mitch has presented her with. Given Lydia's reaction to Melanie's intrusions into male spheres and the similarities shared between Melanie and Annie in that respect, it can be deduced that Lydia rejects Annie because she does not conform to the ideals of the older generation. If Melanie continues to act like Annie she too will ultimately be rejected by Lydia and loose Mitch. Ultimately, the birds punish Annie with death for her transgressions against male dominated society, and the path she represents for Melanie comes to a shocking end.