Since around 2011, coinciding with the release of The Big Year, birding has been gaining traction with mainstream audiences. The increasing number of films and birding events worldwide showcases the growing popularity of this hobby.
“Absolutely anyone can be a birder. Except for blind people, I suppose,” states Ben Kingsley’s character in A Birder’s Guide to Everything, highlighting the accessibility of the pursuit. The film follows fifteen-year-old David Portnoy (Kodi Smit-McPhee), a passionate birder who believes he has spotted a Labrador Duck, a species thought to be extinct. Fueled by hope, he embarks on a coming-of-age road trip with his friends – the rambunctious Timmy (Alex Wolff), the awkward Peter (Michael Chen), and the object of their affection, Ellen (Katie Chang). They seek to confirm his sighting at a key migration point. Kingsley plays a birding expert, adding depth to the narrative.
The motivations behind their quest are multifaceted. While a love for nature is a primary driver, Timmy humorously suggests that proving the Labrador Duck’s existence will bring them “fame-wise, money-wise, and vagina-wise.” A Birder’s Guide to Everything deals with complex themes, including the intricacies of birding and the complexities of teenage hormones. Birding, in particular, requires dedication and the willingness to travel extensively in search of rare birds.
The film is a coming-of-age story centered around a group of unconventional characters navigating life and their place in the world. Their passion for an “arbitrary topic” such as birding becomes a catalyst for self-discovery. However, this type of contemporary film, while not inherently flawed, risks becoming formulaic. While teen-centric films remain engaging, similarities in plots and themes are emerging, as seen in The Kings of Summer and Mud. The film manages to successfully strike a balance and avoid becoming a trope.
Despite these potential pitfalls, A Birder’s Guide to Everything is a heartfelt and intelligent film that uses its PG-13 rating effectively. It realistically portrays teenage life without resorting to gratuitous content, creating a believable and relatable experience.
The performances of Kodi Smit-McPhee and Alex Wolff are noteworthy. Smit-McPhee portrays a character who is listless but not helpless, avoiding the trap of seeking cheap sympathy. Wolff brings energy and controlled goofiness to his role, showcasing his potential as a versatile actor.
Furthermore, A Birder’s Guide to Everything highlights the disparity between passions, illustrating how one person’s fascination can be another’s source of confusion. David’s father (James Le Gros) struggles to understand his son’s fervent love for birding, reflecting a common challenge for parents in today’s world. Co-writer/director Rob Meyer and Luke Matheny depict this dynamic with honesty, showing the father’s lack of understanding or interest in his son’s hobby. This showcases the importance of bridging gaps and fostering understanding between generations, especially when interests diverge.
A Birder’s Guide to Everything is a quirky and heartwarming film that celebrates individuality and the beauty of shared passions. Its warmth, exploration of an unconventional hobby, realistic characters, and insightful portrayal of birding and teenage experiences combine to create a successful and touching film. It resonates with the audience because it celebrates the human experience in all its awkward and beautiful forms.
