Watch Big Sur

Big Sur (2013) is a dramatic film adaptation of the autobiographical novel of the same name by Beat Generation author Jack Kerouac. Directed by Michael Polish, the film follows the story of Kerouac's retreat to a cabin in the wilderness of California's Big Sur in the late 1960s, after achieving fame and success as a writer. The film opens with Kerouac (played by Jean-Marc Barr) struggling with his newfound fame and the pressures that come with it. He decides to retreat to a cabin in Big Sur to escape the chaos of his life in New York City and find solace in the wilderness. At the cabin, Kerouac is joined by his close friends and fellow writers, including Lawrence Ferlinghetti (Anthony Edwards), Neal Cassady (Josh Lucas), and Carolyn Cassady (Radha Mitchell). Together, they spend their days drinking, smoking, and writing, while getting lost in the beauty and freedom of the natural surroundings. As the days turn into weeks, Kerouac's mental state begins to deteriorate. He struggles with writer's block, depression, and alcoholism, and begins to distance himself from his friends. Meanwhile, Neal Cassady begins an affair with Kerouac's friend and former lover, married woman Billie (Kate Bosworth), which puts a strain on their relationship. Throughout the film, the stunning scenery of Big Sur is captured in breathtaking detail, with lush forests and rugged coastlines providing a stark contrast to the characters' inner turmoil. The cinematography and score work together to create a haunting and introspective mood that complements the themes of the story. Overall, Big Sur is a powerful and moving film that delves deep into the complexities of authorship, fame, and inner struggle. The performances by the talented cast are exceptional, and the direction by Michael Polish brings Kerouac's vision to life on screen. The result is a beautiful and haunting portrait of a writer grappling with his own demons, set against the stunning backdrop of California's Big Sur coast.