I have said this before, but movies are my way of going to another place. It may appear that I have not even seen any movies lately, but that is not true. I just have not written about them. I recently saw a movie though that took me to a place that I needed to go. Although the people sitting in front of me were more interested in the videos on their phone and their kids kept calling for their dad sitting on a different row, I was able to really enjoy the film. By the way that is what you get when you go to a matinee at the dollar theater.
The film was the Big Year. It stars Owen Wilson, Jack Black, and Steve Martin. All funny on their own, and also funny in different styles. I was not sure how they would blend together. Jack Black can have a tendency to over do it, and steal the show. Much to my surprise, and appreciation he did not. It reminded me of his role in the Holiday.
The Big Year is about the hobby of birding. Birding is going out and seeing different kinds of bird species. A big year is a contest among birders to see how many species of bird they can see in North America. Owen Wilson is the world record holder, and is going for another big year record. Steve Martin is CEO of a huge company, and wants to retire and go for a big year. Jack Black is a divorced computer tech that lives with his parents. Black has an amazing ability to name birds based on their songs. He does not have much going for him, and wants to try a big year.
The film follows the three of them throughout the year as they all try for a big year. Since birds are seasonal, all three our found in the same areas to try and see the same types of birds. The three begin to get to know each other while they keeping bumping into each other all over the country. Martin and Black become close friends, and try to help each other.
Throughout the film though each guy has events happen at home that distract them, and also helps them put life into perspective. Each one will make different choices though when the events come up. I loved how each character was in different phases in life, and were facing the events that come up in those phases. I know it sounds vague, but I don't want to give to much way. The film introduces a specific relationship that each character has. Owen Wilson and his current wife, Jack Black and his father, Steve Martin and himself. All relationship that in a sense we have and can relate to. I loved how I was reminded of my relationships, the importance of them, and the effort I put into them.
I left the movie, and thought about what I could do this next year that would be my big year. Although I have done stuff this year, I do not feel like it was a huge year. I walked out thinking how I should go after what I love. Why let stuff hold me back. Jack Blacks character maxed out credit cards, and risked his job, and relied on other people to help him out but he was going out and doing what he loved. I then tried to decide what I love that much to travel the country.
Now I know that it is somewhat unrealistic for me to put everything on hold and go around watching high school basketball around the country, or traveling to every Jazz game. However, I cannot just sit around wondering what I am going to do with life. I just need to go out and do it. See more plays, go to more community events, when invited somewhere go. So far it is just talk, but hopefully I will make this year a big year.
On a side note, the song during the closing credits was a Guster song which is one my favorite bands.
The show may not have the same affect on you, plus you probably will not be in a soul searching, go to a movie by yourself kind of mood, but I think it is a simple comedy with a good message. The actors blended well, and each added something, and didn't take away from the movie.
