Leaves of Grass Synopsis & Review: Plot Summary

🎯 Quick Overview

😅 Plot Summary – Badly Explained

A super smart professor gets tricked into hanging out with his weed-dealing twin, and things escalate from philosophy to crossbows faster than you can say ‘hydroponics’.

🍿 Leaves of Grass: Detailed Plot Synopsis

The Professor’s Dilemma

Bill Kincaid, a successful Ivy League philosophy professor, leads a structured and intellectual life far removed from his Oklahoma roots. He receives news of his twin brother Brady’s supposed death, prompting his reluctant return to his hometown. Bill’s initial reluctance stems from a desire to distance himself from his family’s more unconventional lifestyle.

A Deceptive Reunion

Upon arriving in Oklahoma, Bill discovers that Brady is very much alive and involved in a scheme with a local drug lord. Brady’s plan involves using Bill as an alibi, drawing the professor into a world of crime and danger. Bill is initially furious, but the unique circumstances and the re-emergence of family ties keep him from immediately leaving.

Entanglement in Criminal Activity

Bill finds himself increasingly drawn into Brady’s world, meeting colorful characters and grappling with moral dilemmas. He encounters Janet, a captivating local poet, and reconnects with his estranged mother. The situation escalates as Bill becomes more deeply involved in Brady’s dangerous plan, leading to violent confrontations.

⚠️ Spoilers and Ending Explained

🎬 Cast & Characters

• Bill Kincaid (Edward Norton): An Ivy League philosophy professor who is drawn back to his hometown and entangled in his twin brother’s criminal scheme.
• Brady Kincaid (Edward Norton): A small-time marijuana grower who lures his twin brother back home with a fabricated crisis to help him with a dangerous plan.
• Janet (Keri Russell): A local teacher and poet who captivates Bill with her intellect and connection to nature.
• Bolger (Tim Blake Nelson): Brady’s loyal but somewhat dim-witted best friend and partner in his marijuana business.
• Daisy (Susan Sarandon): The twins’ unconventional mother, living in a retirement home, who offers a unique perspective on life.
• Pug Rothbaum (Richard Dreyfuss): A Tulsa philanthropist and drug lord who becomes a dangerous obstacle for Brady and Bill.

💬 Memorable Quotes

• Bolger: “Do you believe in a higher power?” – Bolger poses this question to Brady while discussing the complexities of their criminal enterprise and life’s greater meaning.
• Brady Kincaid: “Yea, I do. I do. It’s the only way to make sense of all this. Otherwise, it’s just pure fucking chaos.” – Brady responds to Bolger, expressing his belief in a guiding force to explain the apparent randomness of the world.
• Brady Kincaid: “Well, I think it’s more like… like parallel lines.” – Brady uses the analogy of parallel lines to describe his understanding of a higher power.

💰Box Office

• Budget: $9,000,000
• Domestic Gross: $70,066
• Worldwide Gross: $1,034,214

💥 Leaves of Grass Reviews

Personal Review

Okay, so, I watched this movie on a whim and wasn’t expecting much, but wow! Edward Norton playing twins is a trip. The whole vibe is quirky and dark, but in a funny way. There is this scene with the catfish and the Whitman poem that just stuck with me. It makes you think about how different life could be if you just went back to your roots. It is for sure worth checking out.

• Who would enjoy:
  • “Fans of Edward Norton”
  • “Viewers who appreciate dark comedies”
  • “Those interested in stories about family dynamics”
  • “People who enjoy films with philosophical themes”
• Content warnings ⚠:
  • “Violence”
  • “Drug use”
  • “Strong language”

Professional Reviews

• IMDB User: “Nelson’s film is a captivating character study blending familiar themes with fresh perspective. Norton’s dual performance is masterful, driving the emotional core. With a kooky tone and surprise twists, the framework feels refreshingly unexpected. Worth watching for acting and script.
• IMDB User: “Ed Norton shines in dual roles as twins with clashing lifestyles. This movie offers humor and suspenseful moments and is a must-see for Ed Norton fans. The cast is strong and the director Tim Blake Nelson delivers too.
• IMDB User: “An interesting film with seamless transition between the two roles Norton plays. Subtle humor and great suspenseful moments. The supporting cast is amazing. This is a must see for any Norton fan.

Audience Reactions

Edward Norton’s performance as two very different twin brothers is a standout.: Viewers appreciate the unique blend of comedy, crime, and philosophical undertones.

Many viewers find the dark humor and unexpected plot twists highly entertaining.: The film is praised for its clever writing and engaging story that keeps you guessing.

Overall Consensus: Leaves of Grass is a quirky, dark comedy with strong performances, especially by Edward Norton, that resonates with those who enjoy films that blend humor with philosophical themes.

Awards

🛠️ Behind the Scenes

• “Tim Blake Nelson wrote the screenplay specifically with Edward Norton in mind for the dual roles of the twins; he stated there would have been no second choice had Norton declined.”
• “Edward Norton reportedly took a pay cut to play both roles in this independent film due to his passion for the project.”
• “Filming took place in Plain Dealing, Louisiana, chosen for its visual similarity to the Oklahoma setting of the story.”

🖥️ How to Watch Leaves of Grass?

Currently, ‘Leaves of Grass’ is available for rent or purchase on various digital platforms, including Prime Video, Apple TV, and Google Play Movies. Check your preferred streaming service for availability, as it may vary by region. You can also search for purchase options through Amazon.

🎥 Similar Movies

If you enjoyed Leaves of Grass, you might like these similar films:

• Fargo (1996): Shares a similar darkly comedic tone and crime-related plot set in a regional American setting.
• The Big Lebowski (1998): Features quirky characters and a convoluted plot involving crime and mistaken identity, with a strong emphasis on humor.
• A Simple Plan (1998): Explores how ordinary people can become entangled in a web of crime and deceit with tragic consequences, highlighting the dark side of human nature.
• Kiss Kiss Bang Bang (2005): It is similar because of it’s quirky comedic crime themes.

🛒 Leaves of Grass Related Products

• Walt Whitman – Leaves of Grass: The Original 1855 Edition: Experience the profound poetry that inspired the movie. The 1855 edition captures Walt Whitman’s original vision, making it a collector’s treasure and a source of deep inspiration.
• Hydroponics Growing System Indoor Garden: Cultivate your own hydroponic garden just like Brady Kincaid. This easy-to-use system allows you to grow herbs, vegetables, and more, right in your home. Perfect for beginners and seasoned gardeners.
• Edward Norton: An American Actor: Explore the career of Edward Norton. Great photographs of all the movies he has acted in. Offers analysis of his most iconic roles, including his dual performance in ‘Leaves of Grass’.
• High Definition Crossbow: 400 FPS Crossbow with 4×32 Scope with Rope Cocking Device. Adjustable Stock and Foregrip for Hunting. This is an outdoor crossbow for hunting.

🎧 Soundtrack

Leaves of Grass features a captivating soundtrack that enhances the movie’s atmosphere and emotional impact. Here are some notable tracks:

• “Stand Up” – performed by Doug Bossi

You can find the complete soundtrack on Amazon Music and Apple Music.

🤨 FAQ

🔥 Bonus Content

Bryan Cranston Joked About The Book “Leaves of Grass” | Breaking Bad Commentary Ep503 – Hazard Pay

Did you know the movie title is a reference to Walt Whitman’s poem? Check out this hilarious clip of Bryan Cranston joking about “Leaves of Grass” during a Breaking Bad commentary. It’s pretty cool to see the connection between his famous role and the movie’s literary roots!

✨ Rate