'Little Wing' Ending Explained: Kaitlyn McKay and Jaan Vari's complex bond unraveled
Contains spoilers for 'Little Wing'
PORTLAND, OREGON: Dean Israelite's heartfelt coming-of-age film 'Little Wing' has been released by Paramount+ on Wednesday, March 13. The film is based on the article of the same name by Susan Orlean.
Starring Brian Cox, Kelly Reilly and Brooklynn Prince, 'Little Wing' delves into the themes of grief, hope, and unexpected friendships.
The narrative centers on Kaitlyn McKay (Brooklynn Prince), a teenage girl grappling with the aftermath of her parents' divorce. She makes a bold decision to steal Granger, a high-value bird owned by pigeon racer Jaan Vari (Brian Cox).
However, the situation escalates dramatically when Jaan confronts her at home, issuing threats. Meanwhile, Kaitlyn has already sold the bird to the Russian mafia in a desperate attempt to secure funds to protect her family home.
Jaan Vari, Kaitlyn McKay, and Matt steal Granger in 'Little Wing'
Guilt-ridden Kaitlyn decides to help Jaan bring back Granger. However, her brother Matt (Simon Khan) catches her sneaking out of her house through the window of her room. To her surprise, Matt decides to join her mission.
Upon arriving at the mafia's warehouse, Jaan and Kaitlyn are disheartened to discover pigeons confined behind a robust steel gate, seemingly impenetrable. However, Matt refuses to give up and finds a way to get into the warehouse. After he breaks in, he opens the gate for Jaan and Kaitlyn.
Jaan secures Granger, and following Matt's instructions, Kaitlyn leaves behind the money she had received from the mafia inside the bird's cage.
As they prepare to depart, the mafia intervenes, halting their exit. Jaan asks Kaitlyn to open the cage for Granger to fly away, knowing that he will find his way back home.
Granger returns to Kaitlyn McKay's home in 'Little Wing'
Several days later, Kaitlyn and Jaan reunite at another pigeon race. To Kaitlyn's surprise, Jaan is not participating with Granger. Concerned, she learns from Jaan that the bird has yet to return home.
However, they both strongly believe that the birds do return home even if it takes a long time. One day, Kaitlyn sees Granger sitting at the window of her room. Excited, she decides to take him to his rightful owner.
Jaan Vari gives up his birds in 'Little Wing'
When Kaitlyn visits Jaan's house, she sees him emptying his loft. He tells her that he has freed his birds. Jaan has gifted his pigeons to fellow enthusiasts and has saved some for Kaitlyn as well. He also mentions that he is selling his apartment.
As Jaan's lung cancer had progressed, requiring residential treatment, Kaitlyn delivers the news that Granger has returned to her place. Jaan realizes that his cherished pigeon has chosen Kaitlyn's home as her new sanctuary.
Matt saves the house from being sold in 'Little Wing'
As the McKay residence is on the verge of getting sold, Matt saves the day. Upon learning that Kaitlyn doesn't want them to lose the house, he pulls up an act where he threatens to kill himself. As a result, their father has to step up and pay for the mortgage.
The conclusion of 'Little Wing' sees Kaitlyn paying a visit to Jaan at his residential treatment center. Their bond remains strong as they stay connected and enjoy bird-watching from the terrace together.
Jaan shares with her the meaning of life stating that it is sweet, even with all its ups and downs.
'Little Wing' is available to stream on Paramount+.