Secondhand Lions

14-year-old Walter is unceremoniously dropped off at the doorstep of his great uncles, Hub and Garth, on a hot summer day. They are known for their reclusiveness and rumored wealth, leaving Walter both curious and apprehensive about his new surroundings.

As Walter settles into life at the farmhouse, he faces challenges due to his uncles' eccentricities and a series of unwelcome salespeople. The house is filled with traps and shotguns, leading to humorous yet tense encounters that highlight his uncles' unusual lifestyle.

In a twist of fate, Walter accidentally thwarts an attempted scheme by opportunistic relatives who aim to exploit his uncles' wealth. This act earns him their respect and begins to change his relationship with Hub and Garth.

When Hub and Garth decide to acquire a lion for hunting, they unexpectedly end up with a tame lioness from a circus. This lioness becomes an unlikely companion for Walter, symbolizing the thrilling adventures to come during his summer at the farm.

During a mishap involving Lion Chow, Hub suffers an injury requiring hospitalization. This incident allows Walter to understand the depth of care his uncles have for him, strengthening their bond.

While dining at a roadside diner, Hub uses his sharp reflexes to outsmart four thugs who threaten them with switchblades. His quick thinking not only keeps Walter safe, but also shows his resourcefulness and protective nature.

The lioness, now acclimated to her surroundings, starts to roam freely and lays claim to a section of the cornfield, turning it into her private jungle. Her presence adds an exciting layer of chaos and charm to the farm life.

Walter discovers a hidden photograph of a striking woman in the attic, propelling him into the extraordinary history of Hub and Garth. Tales of their time with the French Foreign Legion and Hub's lost love, an Arab princess, unveil a touching narrative of adventure and sorrow.

Walter learns about the tragic fate of Hub's wife, Jasmine, who died during childbirth. This revelation deepens Walter's understanding of his uncles' longing for the past, leaving an emotional impact on him as he contemplates their life choices.

Walter follows Garth into a concealed room under the barn, where he discovers a stash of money. Tensions rise when Stan accuses Hub and Garth of being robbers, leading to a violent confrontation that tests Walter's loyalty and bravery.

Just as Walter is cornered and overpowered by Stan's aggression, the lioness rushes in from the cornfield. Her powerful presence and courage drive Stan away, showcasing the bond formed between Walter and the lioness.

As Walter prepares to leave the farm with his mother, he faces surprising news: Stan must join them for recovery after his altercation. This twist leads to a confrontation between Walter and his mother that reveals deep-seated frustrations.

Seventeen years later, Walter returns to the farm after hearing news of his uncles' deaths during a failed stunt with their biplane. This return is bittersweet as he confronts the inheritance of their legacy and the emotional weight it carries.

Walter's life takes another turn when a helicopter lands, bringing a stranger who shares tales of Hub and Garth's adventures. The man, accompanied by his young son, reveals a familial connection that adds to the rich history Walter is now a part of.

As the stranger's son learns about his uncles' legendary lives, Walter responds with pride, affirming their extraordinary past. His statement, 'Yeah, they really lived,' encapsulates the essence of his uncles and the lasting impact of their adventures.