Big Bully

The film juxtaposes two eras: the 1970s childhood in Hastings and the mid-1990s adult life in Oakland. The 1970s section emphasizes schoolyard hierarchies and small-town mores, while the 1996 portion focuses on mature relationships, divorce, and a test of character. Time shifts underscore how childhood experiences echo into adulthood.

The story unfolds in Hastings, Minnesota during the 1970s, a close-knit small town where David is bullied by Fang. Decades later, the action moves to Oakland in 1996, where David returns to teaching and reconnects with old friends and a former flame. The contrast between a quiet Midwestern town and a bustling city backdrop highlights how past events linger and shape present choices.

🤝 Reconciliation

Old grievances resurface as David and Ross confront their shared history. Their children, Ben and Kirby, catalyze a turning point by challenging the adults to abandon pride and seek a truce. Through confrontations, real talk, and risky acts, the film suggests that forgiveness is possible even after years of resentment. The ending shows the families choosing to move forward together.

💥 Bullying and Power

The film traces how power dynamics from childhood carry into adulthood, with Ross using intimidation to control his environment. David's fear and paranoia reflect how past abuse can shape a person's present actions. The narrative also reveals the consequences of unchecked dominance on families and students alike. Acceptance and boundaries begin to form only when the cycle is broken.

👨‍👦 Father-Son Bonds

A central thread is the strained relationship between fathers and their sons, and how mentoring and empathy can heal. David's efforts to support Ben clash with Ross's overbearing style, forcing them to reconsider what it means to be a father. The boys' own friendship becomes the catalyst that nudges their dads toward repair. The story culminates in a shared sense of responsibility and mutual respect.