This movie is for the birds. Really. But it's a pretty good movie. It moves a little slowly but, hey, how much high drama can you find in a contest to view and record as many North American birds as possible in a year?
Three men portrayed by Steve Martin (Stu), Jack Black (Brad), and Owen Wilson (Kenny Bostwick) set out to break the record first set by Kenny (732). They take planes, trains, automobiles, bicycles, helicopters and more to criss cross North America in their quest. The opening credits say that it is a true story with only the facts being changed.
I guess it's supposed to be a comedy but the laughs are real and careful. It's just a sweet metaphor about real and honorable competition. Stu is trying to retire and finds that his "Big Year" pursuit makes him rethink his life, his family, his wife, and his new grandchild. Jack is divorced and holding a boring computer job but manages to find the time and energy to pursue the contest while holding down his job. His mother is supportive but his father (Brian Dennehey) is less enthusiastic. As the movie progresses the tenderness of Brad's relationship with his father is wonderful. Kenny's role is as an honest and very moral jerk. He's not above deceiving his fellow contestants but is above cheating in this contest based totally on the honor system. Winning, however, is everything and he loses his loving wife because he loves his pursuit of the birds more than her.
I won't reveal who wins but, in the end, I see all three characters as winners.
I think that you will enjoy the movie. We did.
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