The Ornithologist

The Ornithologist

Year: 2017

Runtime: 117 min

Language: Portuguese

AdventureDramaMystery

During a dangerous expedition, an ornithologist’s boat capsizes, forcing him to rely on the kindness of enigmatic Chinese travelers. He embarks on a challenging journey of survival, facing harsh conditions and difficult choices. The experience tests his physical and mental limits, leading him to question his understanding of life and the world around him.

Warning: spoilers below!

Haven’t seen The Ornithologist yet? This summary contains major spoilers. Bookmark the page, watch the movie, and come back for the full breakdown. If you're ready, scroll on and relive the story!

Timeline & Setting – The Ornithologist (2017)

Explore the full timeline and setting of The Ornithologist (2017). Follow every major event in chronological order and see how the environment shapes the story, characters, and dramatic tension.

Time period

The film presents a timeless feel, incorporating elements of surrealism and existential exploration without anchoring it in a specific historical context. The characters engage in both modern and primitive interactions, juxtaposed against the backdrop of nature’s beauty and spirituality.

Location

Portugal, Riverbank, Woods, Abbey

The movie is set in the scenic landscapes of Portugal, featuring a tranquil riverbank where Fernando embarks on a birdwatching trip. The surrounding woods provide a backdrop for the serendipitous encounters he experiences. An abandoned mission abbey adds a sense of history and mystique to the journey, with its statues of saints and angels captivating the characters.

🇵🇹 Portugal 🌳 Nature ⛪ Abbey

Last Updated: October 22, 2024 at 21:40

Main Characters – The Ornithologist (2017)

Meet the key characters of The Ornithologist (2017), with detailed profiles, motivations, and roles in the plot. Understand their emotional journeys and what they reveal about the film’s deeper themes.

Fernando

Fernando is an introspective and passionate birdwatcher whose serene camping trip quickly spirals into chaos. As he grapples with survival and connection, his character transitions from a state of vulnerability to one marked by emotional turmoil and ultimately, violence.

🌳 Adventurous 🎨 Introspective 💔 Complex

Jesus

Jesus is a deaf and mute goat herder who forms a powerful yet tragic bond with Fernando. His gentle demeanor contrasts with Fernando's impulsive nature, creating a dynamic that encapsulates both tenderness and tension, leading to profound themes of love and loss.

🐐 Gentle 💞 Romantic ⚔️ Tense

Fei

Fei is one of the Chinese women who finds Fernando unconscious. She displays determination despite her fears and plays a pivotal role in the rescue, showcasing strength and resourcefulness in the face of uncertainty.

💪 Resourceful 🌍 Brave 🌙 Supportive

Lin

Lin accompanies Fei on their trekking journey through the woods. Although she expresses concerns about the forest spirits, she remains supportive of Fei’s actions, highlighting themes of friendship and loyalty amid peril.

🌲 Loyal 🔍 Cautious 🤝 Caring

Anthony

Anthony is a spectral figure who engages Fernando in deep philosophical discussions about existence and belief. His role raises critical questions about life and death as he embodies both a past connection and a catalyst for Fernando's turmoil.

👻 Philosophical 🌀 Mysterious 💬 Insightful

Last Updated: October 22, 2024 at 21:40

Major Themes – The Ornithologist (2017)

Explore the central themes of The Ornithologist (2017), from psychological, social, and emotional dimensions to philosophical messages. Understand what the film is really saying beneath the surface.

🌊 Surrealism

The theme of surrealism permeates the narrative, showcasing a blend of reality and dream-like sequences. As Fernando navigates through strange encounters, his experiences challenge the boundaries of existence and consciousness, prompting viewers to question the nature of reality itself.

❤️ Love & Jealousy

The themes of love and jealousy are intricately woven through the relationship between Fernando and Jesus. What begins as a bond of friendship evolves into a romantic connection, yet the undercurrents of jealousy lead to a tragic confrontation, reflecting the complexity of human emotions.

🌌 Life & Death

Life and death serve as pivotal themes as relationships develop and characters grapple with their mortality. Dialogues between Fernando and Anthony explore existential questions, navigating the thin line between living and dying.

Last Updated: October 22, 2024 at 21:40

Unlock the Full Story of The Ornithologist

Don't stop at just watching — explore The Ornithologist in full detail. From the complete plot summary and scene-by-scene timeline to character breakdowns, thematic analysis, and a deep dive into the ending — every page helps you truly understand what The Ornithologist is all about. Plus, discover what's next after the movie.

The Ornithologist Summary

Read a complete plot summary of The Ornithologist, including all key story points, character arcs, and turning points. This in-depth recap is ideal for understanding the narrative structure or reviewing what happened in the movie.

The Ornithologist Summary

The Ornithologist Timeline

Track the full timeline of The Ornithologist with every major event arranged chronologically. Perfect for decoding non-linear storytelling, flashbacks, or parallel narratives with a clear scene-by-scene breakdown.

The Ornithologist Timeline

More About The Ornithologist

Visit What's After the Movie to explore more about The Ornithologist: box office results, cast and crew info, production details, post-credit scenes, and external links — all in one place for movie fans and researchers.

More About The Ornithologist

Similar Movies to The Ornithologist

Discover movies like The Ornithologist that share similar genres, themes, and storytelling elements. Whether you’re drawn to the atmosphere, character arcs, or plot structure, these curated recommendations will help you explore more films you’ll love.