The Big Year Synopsis & Review: Plot Summary

🎯 Quick Overview

😅 Plot Summary – Badly Explained

Three dudes spend a year chasing birds instead of their dreams, families, or responsibilities, only to learn maybe birds aren’t everything… or are they?

🍿 The Big Year: Detailed Plot Synopsis

Introduction to the Big Year

The film introduces the concept of a ‘Big Year’ in birding, where enthusiasts compete to spot the most bird species in a single calendar year. We meet three main characters: Brad Harris, a passionate but underachieving computer programmer; Stu Preissler, a retiring CEO looking for new purpose; and Kenny Bostick, the reigning champion determined to defend his title.

The Competition Begins

As the year progresses, the three birders travel across North America, from Alaska to Texas, chasing rare bird sightings. They face various challenges, including financial constraints, family obligations, and the cutthroat tactics of their competitors. The film highlights the dedication and sacrifices required to pursue a Big Year.

Personal Sacrifices

Each character struggles with the impact of their obsession on their personal lives. Kenny’s marriage suffers as he prioritizes birding over his wife’s desire to start a family. Stu grapples with balancing his Big Year with his responsibilities to his company. Brad strives to prove himself to his disapproving father while navigating a budding romance.

⚠️ Spoilers and Ending Explained

🎬 Cast & Characters

• Brad Harris (Jack Black): A passionate but underachieving computer programmer who dreams of winning the ‘Big Year’ bird-watching competition to find meaning in his life.
• Stu Preissler (Steve Martin): A newly retired CEO who sets out to achieve his lifelong dream of winning the ‘Big Year’ before fully committing to retirement.
• Kenny Bostick (Owen Wilson): The fiercely competitive and reigning ‘Big Year’ champion, willing to sacrifice everything to maintain his title.
• Jessica (Rosamund Pike): Kenny’s wife, who struggles with his all-consuming obsession with birding as it jeopardizes their relationship and plans for a family.
• Barry Loomis (Joel McHale): One of Stu’s ambitious lieutenants at his company, who keeps trying to pull Stu back into work during his Big Year.
• Jim Gittelson (Kevin Pollak): Another one of Stu’s ambitious lieutenants at his company, eager for Stu to return and close a major deal.
• Narrator (John Cleese): The voice that provides a comedic and informative narration throughout the story of the birding competition.

💬 Memorable Quotes

• Brad: “I wanted to be the greatest birder in the world.” – Brad expresses his driving ambition at the beginning of his Big Year journey.
• Kenny: “A Big Year is about pushing yourself to the absolute limit.” – Kenny explains the dedication required to seriously compete in a Big Year.
• Stu: “There’s more to life than a corner office.” – Stu reflects on his decision to retire and pursue his passion for birding.
• Brad: “We got more birds, but we got more everything.” – Brad realizes that the relationships he’s built are more valuable than winning the competition.

💰Box Office

• Budget: $41,000,000
• Domestic Gross: $7,204,138
• Worldwide Gross: $8,179,416

💥 The Big Year Reviews

Personal Review

I went into this movie not expecting much, and I was pleasantly surprised. The scenery is beautiful, and it’s a feel-good story about chasing your passion. Jack Black’s performance was surprisingly nuanced, and Steve Martin was great as the lovable retiree. While it wasn’t laugh-out-loud funny, it had a heartwarming quality that I really enjoyed. I’d recommend it if you’re looking for something light and uplifting.

• Who would enjoy:
  • “Bird watching enthusiasts”
  • “Fans of Steve Martin, Jack Black, and Owen Wilson”
  • “Viewers who appreciate light-hearted comedies with a touch of drama”
  • “Families looking for a clean, entertaining film”
• Content warnings ⚠:
  • “Some mild language”

Professional Reviews

• Showbiz Junkies: “The Big Year’s low IMDb rating and box-office take had me worried that this film would be a lame-duck. Turns out, this movie is really good. I am not a “birder” and know very little about birds. The beginning of The Big Year made me think I would learn a little bit more about birds, but was pleasantly surprised to learn that the film is not about birds at all; it is about people, how we relate to one another, and the things that drive us to do the things we do.
• IMDb: “This movie has Steve Martin, Owen Wilson, and Jack Black. I found The Big Year humorous and thoughtful. The writing avoided the caricatures often associated with birding. I was in shock to see only one bird poop reference and surprisingly no toilet humor (which I would have expected based on the cast). Direction by David Frankel (Marley and Me, Devil wears Prada) was well-paced.

Audience Reactions

Many viewers found the scenery breathtaking and the film surprisingly heartwarming.: The performances by the lead actors were praised, with Jack Black’s portrayal considered a standout.

Overall Consensus: The Big Year is a charming, if not particularly hilarious, film about following your dreams, with beautiful scenery and surprisingly heartfelt performances. It resonates especially with those who appreciate nature and personal growth stories.

Awards

🛠️ Behind the Scenes

• “The film is based on the non-fiction book ‘The Big Year: A Tale of Man, Nature, and Fowl Obsession’ by Mark Obmascik, which chronicles the real-life adventures of three birders competing in a ‘Big Year.'”
• “Many scenes were filmed on location in various birding hotspots across North America, including Attu Island in Alaska, Point Pelee in Ontario, and High Island in Texas.”
• “To prepare for their roles, the actors spent time with experienced birders, learning about bird identification, behavior, and the unique culture of the birding community.”

🖥️ How to Watch The Big Year?

The Big Year is available for streaming on platforms like Disney+ and can be rented or purchased on Amazon Prime Video, Apple TV, and other digital retailers. Check your local listings for availability as options may vary by region.

🎥 Similar Movies

If you enjoyed The Big Year, you might like these similar films:

• Best in Show (2000): Both films humorously explore the world of eccentric competitions and the passionate individuals involved.
• Wild (2014): Shares the theme of self-discovery through nature and pushing personal limits, but with a focus on hiking instead of birding.
• Rat Race (2001): It is a comedic cross-country race with a group of eccentric characters competing for a grand prize, but with more slapstick humour and physical comedy than The Big Year.
• The Bucket List (2007): Explores the theme of fulfilling life-long dreams and desires, similar to the characters in ‘The Big Year’ pursuing their passion for birding.

🛒 The Big Year Related Products

• National Geographic Complete Birds of North America, 2nd Edition: The definitive guide to North American birds. This book features detailed descriptions, stunning photography, and range maps to help birders of all levels identify species.
• Celestron Outland X 8×42 Binoculars: These binoculars are a great entry-level option for birdwatching. They’re durable, waterproof, and offer good magnification for spotting birds in the distance.
• Audubon Bird Call: This simple device mimics bird sounds to attract different species. It’s a fun and interactive way to engage with nature, perfect for those inspired by Brad Harris’s bird calling skills.
• Bird Photography: The Complete Guide: An invaluable resource for anyone looking to improve their bird photography skills, with tips on equipment, techniques, and finding the best locations.

🎧 Soundtrack

The Big Year features a captivating soundtrack that enhances the movie’s atmosphere and emotional impact. Here are some notable tracks:

• “Minor Swing” – performed by Django Reinhardt and Stéphane Grappelli

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

🤨 FAQ

🔥 Bonus Content

Gordon Keith interviews Steve Martin, Owen Wilson, and Jack Black

Ever wonder what it’s like to be on set with comedic legends? This hilarious interview with Steve Martin, Owen Wilson, and Jack Black is a must-watch for any fan of ‘The Big Year’!

The Big Year – Bald eagle ritual

Want to see one of the coolest scenes from ‘The Big Year’? Check out this short clip featuring the majestic Bald eagle ritual – it’s a really interesting moment in the movie!

You’re just *IN TIME* for a *BIG YEAR*!

Curious what the critics thought of ‘The Big Year’? This review dives into the film’s pros and cons, giving you a comprehensive overview before you decide to watch (or re-watch) it. They go in hard, do you agree with their score?

✨ Rate