Sometimes a Great Notion

The local logging union declares a strike against the large lumber conglomerate, threatening Wakonda's economic stability. The Stampers are urged to join the strikers, but Hank and Henry refuse, turning their family into traitors in the eyes of many townspeople. The conflict tests loyalties and the future of the community hangs in the balance.

Hank and his father decline to support the strike, choosing to keep their logging business alive. The decision deepens the rift with Viv, who urges a different course. The tension weighs on the family as economic pressures mount.

Lee Stamper comes home bearing a college education and urban manners, but also a heavy drinker’s ache. He reveals a suicide attempt following his mother’s death and explains his long shadows of depression. He pushes Viv to consider leaving Hank as the strain grows loud.

The Stampers join with uneasy resolve as locals burn their equipment and river currents threaten their logs. They grapple with both human antagonism and nature as they try to move timber downstream. The family’s resolve hardens in the face of escalating danger.

During the log haul, a falling tree slices through Henry’s arm, leaving him injured and vulnerable. Hank and the rest scramble to keep the operation going while fearing for Henry’s life. The accident marks a brutal turning point in the family's struggle.

A trunk rolls onto Joe Ben, pinning him as he clings to hope. Hank’s desperate rescue attempts are thwarted by the rising tide, and Joe Ben drowns before medical help can arrive. The tragedy compounds the Stampers’ losses and spurs them to persevere.

Lee carries his father to the hospital after the accident. Henry dies there, finally expressing approval of Lee and his choices. The loss intensifies the family’s strain and marks a turning point in Hank’s view of his son.

At the hospital, Hank learns that Viv has left him, abandoning the home and their fractured marriage. The abandonment compounds Hank’s sense of isolation as he confronts an uncertain future. The family’s cohesion dissolves just as the crisis peaks.

Hank returns to an empty house and seems to have given up on the fight. The loss of his wife mirrors the collapse of the family’s unity and the uncertain fate of their business. Yet a stubborn spark remains that will push him to continue the struggle.

Hank resolves to deliver the logs, even if it means going it alone. Lee unexpectedly joins him, bridging the rift and committing to the family’s shared business. They line up along the riverbank, facing skeptical rivals who expect them to fail.

Together, Hank and Lee succeed in delivering the logs despite formidable odds and rival opposition. The moment is symbolized when Henry’s severed arm, attached to the boat, gives the middle finger to the watchers. The victory redefines their standing in the town.