Wild America

Wild America

Year: 1997

Runtime: 106 mins

Language: English

Director: William Dear

AdventureComedyFamily

Three brothers—Marshall, Marty and Mark—have long wanted to be naturalists and capture America’s wildlife. One summer they embark on a road trip, traveling across the country to film iconic animals: alligators in swamps, bears in forests, and moose in northern wetlands, sharing the untamed spirit of the United States.

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Timeline & Setting – Wild America (1997)

Explore the full timeline and setting of Wild America (1997). Follow every major event in chronological order and see how the environment shapes the story, characters, and dramatic tension.

Time period

Summer 1967

The events take place in the summer of 1967, a pre-digital era when families relied on film cameras to capture wildlife. The pace is slower, focused on exploration, travel, and outdoor danger rather than modern technology. The era's social atmosphere frames their family dynamic and ambitions.

Location

Fort Smith, Arkansas, Devil's Playground, Colorado, Arapaho Peak, Montana

Set across remote American wilderness: Fort Smith, Arkansas, the swampy areas, Devil's Playground in Colorado, and Arapaho Peak in Montana. These locations provide dense wildlife and rugged terrain that frame the brothers' adventure. The landscapes set the tone for a boyhood quest that blends thrills with danger.

🗺️ United States wilderness 🐾 Wildlife 🏔️ Mountain terrain

Last Updated: October 04, 2025 at 19:12

Main Characters – Wild America (1997)

Meet the key characters of Wild America (1997), with detailed profiles, motivations, and roles in the plot. Understand their emotional journeys and what they reveal about the film’s deeper themes.

Marshall Stouffer (Jonathan Taylor Thomas)

The youngest Stouffer brother who endures his older siblings' stunts with a mix of annoyance and resilience. He resents the constant filming but uses cleverness to outsmart them. Throughout the journey, he shows courage and growth, ultimately earning his father's respect.

🎯 Protagonist 🧭 Adventurous 🧠 Clever

Mark Stouffer (Devon Sawa)

The middle brother who dreams big about wildlife and the power of the camera. He collaborates with Marty and thrives on expedition planning, sometimes clashing with Marshall. He endures injuries and keeps the pursuit alive, playing a key role in the film's success.

🎬 Filmmaker 🧭 Adventurous 🧠 Ambitious

Marty Stouffer Sr. (Jamey Sheridan)

The protective father who worries about money and safety, initially opposing the camera project. He relents after Agnes offers her Hawaii vacation money and supports his sons' dream. He later faces injury and is briefly hospitalized, but is moved by Marshall's growth and the family's perseverance.

👨‍👦 Father 🧭 Skeptical 💪 Supportive

Agnes Stouffer (Frances Fisher)

The pragmatic mother who champions her sons' dream, offering Hawaii vacation money to fund the project. She provides emotional support and keeps the family connected during the journey.

👩 Matriarch 💡 Pragmatic 💪 Supportive

D.C. (DC) (Zack Ward)

The adversarial, money-minded foil who challenges the brothers and mocks their filmmaking in public. He represents skepticism and rivalry that the Stouffers must overcome.

🪪 Rival 💬 Mocking 🧨 Antagonist

Leon (Tracey Walter)

A mysterious helper who appears at key moments, saving Marshall and later aiding in the flight sequence. He acts as a wary ally whose presence guides the journey.

🧭 Guide 🤝 Ally 🛩️ Pilot Helper

Stango (Don Stroud)

The alligator hunter and Korean War veteran who shares rugged wisdom about wilderness dangers. His stories foreshadow bears and other threats the brothers encounter.

🧔 Veteran 🏞️ Wilderness Expert 🗝️ Mentor

Last Updated: October 04, 2025 at 19:12

Major Themes – Wild America (1997)

Explore the central themes of Wild America (1997), from psychological, social, and emotional dimensions to philosophical messages. Understand what the film is really saying beneath the surface.

🌿 Family Bonds

Three Stouffer brothers navigate love, rivalry, and loyalty as they pursue a shared dream. Marshall endures pranks from his older brothers and learns to channel cleverness into resilience. The family bond is tested yet strengthened through wilderness dangers and a father's evolving pride.

🎬 Filmmaking Dream

The brothers dream of capturing wildlife across the country and chase the thrill of documentary filmmaking. They acquire a rare camera with their mother's support, turning a family project into a road trip. The camera's presence drives their choices and compels them toward uncharted territory.

🗺️ Nature's Dangers

Wilderness hazards—from alligators in swamps to bear caves and roaring planes—shape the trip's risks. The landscape presents life-or-death moments that test the brothers' courage and improvisation. The dangers underscore the line between adventure and recklessness.

Last Updated: October 04, 2025 at 19:12

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Wild America Summary

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Wild America Summary

Wild America Timeline

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Wild America Timeline

Wild America Spoiler-Free Summary

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Wild America Spoiler-Free Summary

More About Wild America

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