Movie Overview
Big Game (2014) delivers a refreshing blend of action, adventure, and comedy, breathing new life into the survival genre. Directed by Jalmari Helander, the film centers on Oskari, a young Finnish boy attempting to prove his manhood during a solo hunting trip in the rugged woods. His rite of passage takes a dramatic turn when Air Force One is shot down by terrorists, crashing near his campsite. Oskari discovers the plane's sole survivor: the President of the United States, played by Samuel L. Jackson. As the assassins close in, the boy must use his limited but growing survival skills to protect the most powerful man in the world.
The chemistry between Samuel L. Jackson and Onni Tommila drives the film's narrative, balancing intense action moments with genuine humor. Ray Stevenson leads the opposing forces as a ruthless mercenary, providing a formidable threat that raises the stakes for the protagonists. Helander’s direction effectively contrasts the grand scale of a presidential crisis with the intimate, quiet setting of the Finnish Lapland forests. This juxtaposition creates a unique atmosphere that feels both epic and personal, distinguishing Big Game from standard Hollywood blockbusters.
Critically, the movie received mixed to positive reviews, holding a 77% rating on Rotten Tomatoes but a more modest 5.4/10 on IMDb. While some critics found the plot absurd, many praised the film's self-aware tone and entertaining homage to 80s and 90s action classics. The production is a true international effort, hailing from Finland, the United Kingdom, Germany, and the United States, and presented in both English and Finnish languages. It garnered 1 win and 8 nominations at various award ceremonies, largely recognized for its visual effects and genre appeal.
If you are looking to watch online, Big Game is a solid choice for viewers who enjoy fast-paced escapism. It is an ideal pick for a family movie night that requires attention, given its PG-13 rating. Whether you are a fan of Samuel L. Jackson or simply looking for an adventure movie that doesn't take itself too seriously, you can stream Big Game on Netflix for an exciting ride through the wilderness.
