The film follows Jeff “The Dude” Lebowski (played by Jeff Bridges), a laid-back and easygoing slacker who enjoys bowling and drinking White Russians. One day, he is mistaken for another man named Jeffrey Lebowski, who happens to be a millionaire. The other Lebowski’s wife, Bunny (played by Tara Reid), owes money to pornographer Jackie Treehorn (played by Ben Gazzara), and thugs break into The Dude’s apartment, urinate on his rug, and demand money. The rug, which The Dude sees as his only source of comfort and identity, sets him on a quest for restitution.
Seeking compensation for the ruined rug, The Dude visits the wealthy Jeffrey Lebowski (played by David Huddleston), who dismisses him. However, The Dude meets Bunny’s husband’s assistant, Brandt (played by Philip Seymour Hoffman), who reveals that Bunny has been kidnapped, and Jeffrey offers The Dude a reward to deliver the ransom money.
With the help of his bowling buddies, Walter Sobchak (played by John Goodman) and Donny Kerabatsos (played by Steve Buscemi), The Dude attempts to deliver the ransom but encounters various obstacles and complications. Along the way, they get involved with a group of German nihilists, a feminist artist named Maude Lebowski (played by Julianne Moore), and a private detective named Da Fino (played by Jon Polito).
As The Dude delves deeper into the mystery, he discovers that nothing is as it seems, and everyone he encounters has their own agenda. Despite his lack of ambition and motivation, The Dude navigates the chaos with his signature nonchalance and manages to unravel the truth behind Bunny’s disappearance.
In the end, The Dude confronts Jeffrey Lebowski about his involvement in the kidnapping scheme and demands compensation for his troubles. However, Jeffrey reveals that Bunny was never actually kidnapped but had run away with the nihilists. The Dude realizes that he has been used as a pawn in a larger scheme but ultimately chooses to let go of his grievances and move on with his life.
“The Big Lebowski” is praised for its offbeat humor, quirky characters, and intricate plot. It has become a cult classic and is celebrated for its memorable dialogue, iconic performances, and unique blend of comedy and mystery.