The Big Year: A Birders Review

When I compare the efforts and obsession of the characters depicted in the movie The Big Year and I think of my own efforts, I almost hesitate in calling myself a birder.  The movie was based on a book and the the book was written by one of the birders depicted in the movie.  I must admit that is the extent on my knowledge of the background of the movie but I was still looking forward to it with anticipation.  I even went to see the movie on opening night, something I'm not sure I've ever done before.

What is a "Big Year"?  In the world of those slightly obsessive bird watchers, called birders, there is an unofficial challenge some attempt, to see the most bird species possible in North America during one calendar year.  The movie follows the story of three men who are attempting a Big Year and meet at various bird sightings.  It delves into the world of birding while also keeping a human story line by showing the personal lives of each and how the Big Year attempt impacts those relationships.

I like it!   I really like it!  I went in assuming I would hate it, an entire movie, a comedy, devoted to making fun of something I have such a passion for.  The truth is, I'm not sure I would like it so much if I weren't a birder.  I admit that birding isn't the most alluring hobby for most, although it's not stamp collecting or anything.  The movie actually gives the world a glimpse into birdwatching without ridicule (well maybe a little), and is relatively entertaining.

I giggled at many points in the movie, most of the time over birder-esque things.  I think there could have been a little more slapstick comedy in it.  I mean we've all had some falls while hiking through the woods or been so focused on finding THAT bird that we've stepped in something unpleasant.  And while there were a few of those moments, mostly by Jack Black's character,  I think there could have even been more.  I mean seriously.... no one even got pooped on. 

The non-birding guy I went with said that he enjoyed it... but I think the thing he laughed at the most was when we got out of the movie and the first thing I did was to check my phone and the CT Bird Listserv to see if anyone had reported anything interesting.  Yeah, I think I'll laugh a little more at myself too.