Big Fur

Big Fur is an engaging and genuine documentary that revolves around the life and career of Ken Walker, a world champion taxidermist, and his fascinating, slightly odd project of recreating a life-sized replica of Bigfoot.

Released in 2019, Big Fur is a quirky and offbeat reflection of an extraordinary subculture set in the backdrop of the eccentric and often overlooked world of taxidermy. Directed by Dan Wayne, the movie grabs the audience's curiosity and invites them to embark on a journey into unexplored territories. Walker's penchant for his craft and his desire to break conventional norms by reimagining a creature whose existence itself is debatable, serves as the crux of the narrative. Amy Carter and Antonio Alfero also feature in the documentary film but the center stage is unquestionably nestled into Ken Walker's care.

As an established figure in the domain of taxidermy, Ken Walker takes immense pride in his work and regards it as a form of art that demands discipline, creativity, and a keen understanding of anatomy. The film beautifully encapsulates Walker's ardent passion for taxidermy. He is respected, and perhaps envied, by his peers for his uncanny abilities to breathe life into the skins of animals. It opens a world seen by few, a universe encased within the visceral fragrance of the tanned hides and the tranquil silence of the workshop.

Walker's project to recreate a life-sized model of Bigfoot isn't simply a random selection for an amateur challenge. It's an embodiment of a paranormal fascination amplified by reported Bigfoot sightings in Canada, where he hails from, and his faith in the existence of the legendary creature. Audience witnesses a man in his element as Walker meticulously plans and executes the project, unconcerned and undeterred by doubters and skeptics.

However, “Big Fur” isn’t just extolling the virtues of a world-champion taxidermist, his love of his craft, or even his uncanny obsession with Bigfoot. There are several plot threads masterfully woven into the narrative, the most illuminating being Walker’s relationship with his then-girlfriend, Amy Carter. Ken and Amy's intense relationship is underlined by their mutual passion for art and provides layers to the storytelling.

The director, Dan Wayne, employs a keen eye for detail that humanizes Ken Walker beyond being a passionate taxidermist and a Bigfoot enthusiast. It's evident as the film pans over scenes of Walker outside his workspace, in the banality of everyday life. The film showcases the man behind the art, his hopes, his aspirations, and his eccentricities.

Strikingly, the film also highlights an environmental message. Walker’s passion for taxidermy isn’t just about creating lifelike replicas of animals, but it’s also underlined by his deeply ingrained respect and love for wildlife and nature. He believes in portraying animals in a way that can not only enhance the appreciation for the creatures but can also promote conservation efforts.

The small-town setting, with its unique festivals and Bigfoot-hunting expeditions, serves as a picturesque and cheerful backdrop to the narrative. Director Dan Wayne effectively weaves the aspects of this world into his narrative. The visuals are stunning and emotive, adding an array of colors and textures to this offbeat world, giving it a real sense of place and time.

The charm of Big Fur lies in its authenticity, intimate storytelling, and its portrayal of unique and real characters navigating through life, directed by their passions. This feel‐good film interrogates the line between belief and credulity. It admirably showcases the determination of a man to bring his vision to life, regardless of the eccentricity of the project.

In conclusion, Big Fur is an unassuming albeit memorable documentary offering a rare, in-depth insight into the world of taxidermy with an endearing human story at its core. This film will no doubt strike a chord with anyone who has ever dared to follow a passion despite facing mockery or doubt. It’s an enjoyable paean to dreamers who refuse to limit their aspirations to the constraints of conventional wisdom. The film garners respect, laughter and above all, the intrigue of what exists beyond the realms of the believed and the seen.