American Animal

Spencer Reinhard, an art student, is searching for inspiration for his work. During a visit to Transylvania University library, he discovers a rare first edition of John James Audubon's 'Birds of America,' which captivates his attention and ignites a sense of adventure within him.

Spencer shares his excitement with his friend Warren Lipka, who is known for his rebellious nature. They discuss the thrilling idea of stealing the valuable book and other rare editions from the library, motivated by the risk and potential reward.

Warren proposes that they could easily overpower the librarian guarding the rare collection. They plan out the logistics of the heist, considering that they could escape through a staff elevator after their theft.

Warren travels to Amsterdam to meet potential black-market buyers interested in purchasing the stolen books. He returns with information about the significant profits they could gain, further enticing Spencer and their crew to go through with the plan.

To ensure the heist is successful, Warren and Spencer bring in two friends, Eric Borsuk for logistics and Chas Allen to drive the getaway vehicle. This group dynamic adds more complexity and tension to the impending theft.

The group schedules a private viewing of the rare book collection, arriving disguised as elderly businessmen. However, they panic and decide against the theft upon seeing multiple librarians present during their visit.

Despite having second thoughts, Spencer allows Warren to convince everyone to attempt the heist again the following day. They switch to a more direct approach, with Spencer acting as the lookout while Warren and Eric enter the library.

During the theft, Warren takes an aggressive step and uses a stun gun on the unsuspecting librarian, which leads to chaos. While he and Eric deal with the librarian, they accidentally drop the prized 'Birds of America' but manage to escape with two other books.

The group travels to Christie's auction house in New York City to authenticate the stolen books' value before selling them. Spencer hands over his contact details, which later becomes a critical error as it leads to their identification.

After leaving Christie's, Spencer realizes the potential danger of his identifiable phone number. He worries that the email used to schedule visits could be traced, foreshadowing the imminent consequences of their illicit actions.

The FBI's investigation leads to the discovery of their email trails, leading to their arrest. The unexpected consequences of their theft ambition unravel, revealing the full extent of their miscalculation and risk.

In documentary interviews years after their release from prison, the real-life thieves express deep regret over their actions. Spencer speculates that Warren may have fabricated parts of the story to persuade the group into participating in the crime.

Post incarceration, the group members have taken varied paths in life. Eric resides in California as a writer, Chas works as a fitness coach, while Warren pursues filmmaking studies in Philadelphia, and Spencer returns to Lexington as an artist.