Big Miracle 2012
Directed by
Ken Kwapis
Made by
Universal Pictures
Plot Summary
Discover the intricate plot of Big Miracle (2012). From unexpected twists to emotional highs and lows, this detailed summary breaks down every moment to give you a deeper understanding of the film’s story.
Barrow newsman Adam Carlson can hardly contain his excitement as he looks forward to leaving the remote northern tip of Alaska for a more prestigious news market. However, just when the story of his career begins to unfold, the entire world descends upon the icy territory with its own ambitions. With an oil tycoon, various heads of state, and a swarm of eager journalists converging on the frigid outpost seeking their piece of the action, the one individual who captures Adam’s thoughts the most is Rachel Kramer, his outspoken ex-girlfriend and dedicated environmentalist.
As the clock ticks down, Rachel, Adam, and Nathan, an 11-year-old native Alaskan boy striving to forge a connection with his heritage, must unite an unlikely coalition. This coalition consists of locals, oil corporations, and military forces from both Russia and America, all of whom need to put aside their disagreements for a cause they can collectively champion: the urgent mission of freeing trapped whales in record time.
As Alaska’s inhabitants scramble to carve out countless holes on one side of the ice while a Soviet icebreaker pushes deeper into the frozen landscape from the opposite side, they face the monumental challenge of bridging a four-mile gap. Their success could mean the difference between life and death for these majestic marine creatures, allowing them to escape into the open sea and embark on their 5,000-mile annual migration.
With the eyes of the world focused on this remote corner of the globe for two pivotal weeks, the endeavor to save these endangered whales transforms into a unified mission that transcends borders. This shared goal leads to an unexpected and fleeting thaw in the tensions of the Cold War. As hopes rise and the pressure mounts, the journey unfolds into a remarkable blend of compassion, resilience, and international cooperation.
Timeline
Track the key events of Big Miracle (2012) with a comprehensive timeline. Perfect for understanding the sequence of major plot points, this feature offers clarity on how the story unfolds.
Adam's Excitement
Adam Carlson, a newsman, is filled with anticipation as he prepares to leave the barren cold of Barrow, Alaska, for a more prestigious opportunity. His career seems to be on the verge of a significant breakthrough, which adds to his excitement.
World Descends on Barrow
As Adam’s prospects improve, an unexpected wave of influences arrives in Barrow. Oil tycoons, political leaders, and journalists from all over flock to the area to seize their share of the burgeoning story.
Adam's Thoughts on Rachel
Amidst the chaos, Adam finds his thoughts consumed by Rachel Kramer, his ex-girlfriend. As a passionate environmentalist, Rachel symbolizes the conflicting interests at play, driving Adam’s internal struggle.
Emergence of a Coalition
In the face of widespread geopolitical interests, Adam, Rachel, and Nathan, a young native Alaskan boy, form an unlikely coalition that brings together locals, oil corporations, and military forces. Their united purpose is crucial: rescuing trapped whales.
The Whale Crisis
The coalition faces a dire situation as they discover whales trapped under the thick Arctic ice. Time is of the essence, and they must act quickly to prevent the creatures from perishing, pushing their collaborative efforts into high gear.
Bridging the Ice Gap
As the clock ticks down, the team begins carving numerous holes in the ice to create a pathway for the whales. Meanwhile, a Soviet icebreaker makes its way toward Barrow, increasing the urgency of their mission.
Collaboration Across Borders
The effort to save the whales becomes a symbol of international cooperation, as tensions between the U.S. and Russia begin to ease. Both nations find common ground in their shared goal, fostering an unexpected unity amidst the Cold War atmosphere.
Increased Media Attention
With global media spotlighting Barrow, the plight of the whales reaches audiences worldwide. This sets off a chain reaction of support and interest, turning a local crisis into a global cause.
Public and Political Support
As the operation to free the whales gains momentum, local residents, oil corporations, and governments start to lend their support. The public’s growing interest fosters a sense of camaraderie among otherwise disparate groups.
The Climactic Effort
Facing obstacles and setbacks, the coalition intensifies their efforts, racing against time. The combined forces of locals and military support become crucial as they prepare for the final push to free the whales.
Success in Whale Rescue
Through sheer determination and collaboration, the team successfully frees the whales. This act not only saves the lives of these majestic creatures but also embodies the spirit of cooperation that transcends borders.
A Moment of Reflection
In the aftermath of the rescue, Adam, Rachel, and Nathan reflect on their journey together. Their experiences reveal the power of unity in overcoming significant challenges, leaving a lasting impact on each of their lives.
Change in Relationships
As a result of the shared endeavor, Adam and Rachel find new understanding in their relationship. The struggles they faced alongside Nathan create a bond that prompts both personal growth and a reevaluation of their past together.
Renewed Hope
The success of the whale rescue inspires hope for future collaborations between nations. This significant event not only impacts environmental activism but also hints at the potential for continued peace in a historically tumultuous relationship.
A New Chapter
As the world moves on, Adam's career takes a new direction fueled by the dramatic events he witnessed. His experience in Barrow influences his outlook on journalism, leading him to prioritize stories with a deeper impact.
Characters
Meet the characters that bring Big Miracle (2012) to life. Dive into detailed profiles of the cast and their roles, exploring their motivations, relationships, and arcs within the story.
Adam Carlson (Drew Barrymore)
Adam Carlson is a passionate newsman eager to advance his career but finds himself drawn into the compelling narrative of the whale rescue mission. His character showcases determination and a sense of responsibility towards both journalism and the environment.
Rachel Kramer (John Krasinski)
Rachel Kramer is a dedicated environmentalist and Adam's outspoken ex-girlfriend. She is driven by her values and plays a crucial role in rallying the community for the whale rescue, embodying the spirit of activism and advocacy for nature.
Nathan
Nathan is an 11-year-old native Alaskan boy striving to connect with his heritage while participating in the whale rescue effort. His character personifies innocence and hope, serving as a bridge between traditional values and modern environmental challenges.
Setting
Uncover the settings of Big Miracle (2012), from iconic locations to the time period that shapes its world. See how these elements add depth and context to the movie’s narrative.
Time period
1980s
The movie takes place during the 1980s, a period marked by environmental activism and geopolitical tensions stemming from the Cold War. During this time, awareness for ecological issues began to rise, leading to significant movements aimed at protecting endangered species and conserving natural habitats.
Location
Barrow, Alaska
Barrow, Alaska is known for its extreme cold and breathtaking natural beauty. This remote northern town is the northernmost point in the United States, surrounded by the Arctic Ocean. The area is home to unique wildlife and plays a critical role in the cultural heritage of the indigenous people.
Themes
Explore the core themes of Big Miracle (2012). From its commentary on social issues to its emotional undertones, delve into the deeper messages woven into the film’s story.
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Environmentalism
The film emphasizes the importance of environmental conservation and the preservation of marine life. It showcases the collaborative efforts of individuals from different backgrounds united for a common cause, highlighting how environmental concerns can transcend political barriers.
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Unity
Big Miracle portrays the power of unity in the face of adversity. As various groups come together—including locals, corporate entities, and military forces—the film demonstrates that shared goals can foster cooperation, even amidst longstanding conflicts.
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Animal Welfare
The urgent mission to save the trapped whales underlines the critical themes of animal welfare and empathy towards wildlife. The story advocates for the need to protect endangered species and reflects the moral responsibility humans have to safeguard Earth’s creatures.
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