"The Big Year" should work on so many levels. Based on actual events, the plot focuses on 12 months in the lives of three avid birders (not bird watchers) who max out credit cards, forgo retirement and ruin relationships as they dart around the country to spot as many species of birds as possible. The winner of "the big year" is determined entirely on the honor system and is awarded not in cash, but hushed respect from the underground society of avian appreciation.
A cross-country trip populated by the likes of Steve Martin, Owen Wilson and Jack Black? An introduction to an odd yet fascinating culture? Wacky antics interspersed with touching moments as each main character realizes what's truly important in life? A supporting cast that includes the likes of Brian Dennehy, Dianne Wiest, Kevin Pollak, Rashida Jones and Joel McHale? Check, check, check, check.
So why did "The Big Year" fly away from theaters almost as quickly as it landed? Why am I not impressed by a movie that should be right up my alley? Most importantly, why doesn't it work?
Hard to say, really. At 100 minutes, "The Big Year" feels twice as long. Though the cinematography is breathtaking (aside from one ill-advised moment of CGI), the leading men's attempts at physical comedy fall flat. With the exception of Anjelica Huston's tough boat captain, female characters are either baby-mad doormats or blandly supportive spouses, mothers and potential girlfriends. Though the friendship between Black's office drone and Martin's rich but generous magnate is sweet, like the rest of the movie it doesn't fully gel.
If "The Big Year" is in any way accurate, birders will relentlessly pursue a glimpse at a rare species without a second thought. Similarly, "The Big Year" feels like it is in hot pursuit of something: feel-good family friendly fun? A love letter to a treasured hobby? A star-studded map of pretty birds? Can't really say. Whatever it's chasing, the film doesn't allow the audience a peek.
The DVD/Blu-ray combo pack includes a never-before-seen extended version, deleted scenes, gag reel and featurette, plus a code for a digital copy.
Film: 2.5 Yaps Extras: 2.5 Yaps