The Peanut Butter Falcon Synopsis & Review: Plot Summary

🎯 Quick Overview

😅 Plot Summary – Badly Explained

A Down syndrome wrestler, a crab thief, and a nurse go on a road trip and become the best trio ever, proving family is who you choose, not who you’re born to.

🍿 The Peanut Butter Falcon: Detailed Plot Synopsis

Zak’s Escape and Tyler’s Flight

Zak, a young man with Down syndrome, resides in a nursing home but dreams of becoming a professional wrestler. Inspired by his idol, the Salt Water Redneck, he orchestrates an escape with help from a fellow resident. Simultaneously, Tyler, grieving the loss of his brother, resorts to stealing crab pots, leading him to arson and a need to flee. Their paths unexpectedly cross, setting the stage for an unlikely alliance.

An Unlikely Friendship Forged

Tyler initially intends to continue his escape to Florida alone, but he gradually warms up to Zak and decides to help him reach the Salt Water Redneck’s wrestling school. The film shows Zak and Tyler’s relationship grow as Tyler takes Zak under his wing, teaching him to swim, shoot a gun, and live as an outlaw. Eleanor, Zak’s caretaker, chases after Zak, determined to bring him home.

The Journey South

The duo constructs a raft and journeys downriver, evading Tyler’s pursuers and solidifying their friendship. Eleanor eventually catches up with them. She soon learns that Zak may be moved to a place that restricts Zak more, so she decides to join them and head south, further complicating their situation but strengthening their bond.

⚠️ Spoilers and Ending Explained

🎬 Cast & Characters

• Zak (Zack Gottsagen): A determined young man with Down syndrome who escapes his nursing home to pursue his dream of becoming a professional wrestler.
• Tyler (Shia LaBeouf): A troubled outlaw on the run who becomes Zak’s unlikely coach and friend, helping him achieve his wrestling aspirations.
• Eleanor (Dakota Johnson): A kind nursing home employee who initially seeks to bring Zak back but ultimately joins their journey, becoming part of their unconventional family.
• Salt Water Redneck (Thomas Haden Church): Zak’s wrestling idol, who is convinced to train Zak despite having retired.
• Duncan (John Hawkes): One of the vengeful crabbers hunting Tyler for burning their equipment, representing a threat to the protagonists’ journey.

💬 Memorable Quotes

• Zak: “I am a hero!” – Zak often proclaims this throughout the film, asserting his self-worth and challenging perceptions of his abilities.
• Tyler: “What’s rule number one?” – Tyler establishes a lighthearted rule for their adventure, emphasizing the importance of enjoying life despite their hardships.
• Zak: “Party!” – Zak replies to Tyler’s question. This response becomes a recurring positive mantra.
• Tyler: “Friends are the family we choose.” – Tyler states this as a recognition that he, Zak and Eleanor are bonding as a unit.
• Salt Water Redneck: “You gotta fight for your fairy tale!” – Clint coaches Zak and reminds him to always go after what he wants in life.

💰Box Office

• Budget: $6,200,000
• Domestic Gross: $20,457,158
• Worldwide Gross: $23,712,097

💥 The Peanut Butter Falcon Reviews

Personal Review

I absolutely loved ‘The Peanut Butter Falcon’! From the very beginning, I was captivated by Zak’s determination and the unlikely friendship that blossomed between him and Tyler. The scene where they’re building the raft together, laughing and working side-by-side, genuinely warmed my heart. I teared up when Eleanor finally joined them, creating this unconventional family. This movie reminded me that everyone deserves a chance to chase their dreams and that kindness can change lives. I am happy to have watched this film.

• Who would enjoy:
  • “Fans of heartwarming adventure stories”
  • “Viewers interested in films about friendship and overcoming adversity”
  • “Those who appreciate independent cinema with strong performances”
• Content warnings ⚠:
  • “Some language”
  • “Brief depictions of violence”
  • “Mature themes including grief and discrimination”

Professional Reviews

• IndieWire: “A heartwarming tale that transcends expectations, largely due to the authentic performance of Zack Gottsagen. It’s a feel-good movie that earns its sentimentality, leaving you with a renewed sense of hope and the power of friendship. The story is well-acted with memorable moments throughout.
• The Hollywood Reporter: “Shia LaBeouf delivers a career-defining performance in this modern Mark Twain-esque adventure. ‘The Peanut Butter Falcon’ navigates delicate subject matter with grace and humor, offering a poignant story about acceptance and the pursuit of dreams. Watch for genuine story-telling and moving human drama.
• Variety: “A feel-good movie, anchored by Zack Gottsagen’s breakout performance and the undeniable chemistry between the leads. While the plot might be predictable at times, the emotional resonance and genuine connection between the characters elevate it above the ordinary.

Audience Reactions

The bond between Zak and Tyler is so genuine; it feels like you’re watching real friends connect.: Viewers praise the film’s heartwarming story, exceptional performances, and positive representation of Down syndrome.

Zack Gottsagen is a revelation; his performance brings so much heart and humor to the film.: Audiences praise Zack Gottsagen and his exceptional acting.

Overall Consensus: ‘The Peanut Butter Falcon’ is a heartwarming and uplifting adventure, praised for its genuine performances, touching story, and positive message of friendship and acceptance.

Awards

1. SXSW Film Festival (Audience Award)- 2019

🛠️ Behind the Scenes

• “The film was inspired by Zack Gottsagen’s real-life dream of becoming a professional wrestler.”
• “Directors Tyler Nilson and Michael Schwartz met Zack Gottsagen at a camp for people with and without disabilities and wrote the script specifically for him.”
• “The filmmakers intentionally avoided permits to film in certain locations, lending a raw and authentic feel to the movie.”

🖥️ How to Watch The Peanut Butter Falcon?

The Peanut Butter Falcon is available for streaming on platforms like Prime Video (with a subscription or for purchase/rental), Apple TV (for purchase/rental), and Vudu (for purchase/rental). Check your local listings or streaming service to see if it is included with your subscription, otherwise, you can buy or rent the movie digitally. Physical copies on Blu-ray and DVD can be purchased from major retailers like Amazon and Walmart.

🎥 Similar Movies

If you enjoyed The Peanut Butter Falcon, you might like these similar films:

• Little Miss Sunshine (2006): Similar heartwarming road trip movie featuring a quirky family supporting a child’s unconventional dream.
• Rain Man (1988): Explores the evolving relationship between two very different people on a road trip, dealing with themes of acceptance and understanding.
• Forrest Gump (1994): An adventurous journey of an innocent man experiencing life’s ups and downs, influencing those he meets.
• Mud (2012): Set in the South, it features a compelling story of friendship, loyalty, and adventure, with a touch of danger and suspense.

🛒 The Peanut Butter Falcon Related Products

• The Peanut Butter Falcon [Blu-ray]: Own the heartwarming adventure on Blu-ray with stunning picture and sound quality. Experience the film’s emotional impact with bonus features and behind-the-scenes content.
• The Peanut Butter Falcon Movie Poster: High-quality print of the official movie poster. A stylish addition to any movie lover’s room, capturing the film’s adventurous spirit.
• Wrestling Action Figures: Recreate your favorite wrestling moments from the movie with this collection of highly detailed wrestling action figures. Collect the Salt Water Redneck and other wrestlers and accessories.
• Peanut Butter – Natural Creamy: Natural creamy peanut butter spread, a delicious and nutritious snack. Fuel your adventures, just like Zak in ‘The Peanut Butter Falcon’.

🎧 Soundtrack

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

• “Freedom Highway” – performed by The Staple Singers
• “Run” – performed by Our Lady Peace
• “Gold Lion” – performed by Yeah Yeah Yeahs

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

🤨 FAQ

🔥 Bonus Content

The Peanut Butter Falcon | Official Featurette “Zack’s Story”

Zack Gottsagen is an actor with Down syndrome who plays the lead role in The Peanut Butter Falcon. This featurette tells his story and how he came to star in the movie. It’s a really inspiring story about following your dreams and never giving up.

Shia LaBeouf & Zack Gottsagen Interview – The Peanut Butter Falcon

Shia LaBeouf and Zack Gottsagen have a really special relationship, both on and off-screen. In this interview, they talk about how they met, how they prepared for their roles, and what it was like to work together. It’s a really fun and heartwarming interview that gives you a great insight into the making of The Peanut Butter Falcon.

Dakota Johnson & Her ‘The Peanut Butter Falcon’ Co-Star Zack Gottsagen Are Ready for Awards Season

Dakota Johnson and Zack Gottsagen are two of the most talented young actors in Hollywood. In this interview, they talk about their experience working on The Peanut Butter Falcon, their hopes for awards season, and what it means to them to be a part of such a special film.

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