American Dreamer

American Dreamer

Year: 2024

Runtime: 1 h 38 m

Language: English

Director: Paul Dektor

comedy

Lovably frustrated economics professor Phil Loder, played by Peter Dinklage, is twice divorced and struggling financially. He dreams of owning a home, a seemingly unattainable goal. When an unexpected opportunity presents itself, he impulsively pursues it, leading to a series of comedic and chaotic events.

Warning: spoilers below!

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Timeline & Setting – American Dreamer (2024)

Explore the full timeline and setting of American Dreamer (2024). Follow every major event in chronological order and see how the environment shapes the story, characters, and dramatic tension.

Time period

The events unfold in contemporary times, reflecting modern societal issues regarding property ownership, financial struggles, and human connections. Through Phil's experiences, the narrative highlights the complexities of relationships and the impact of financial decisions in today's world.

Location

Astrid's Home, Summer Camp

The movie primarily takes place in a luxurious home owned by Astrid, which becomes the focal point of Phil's aspirations and struggles. This residence represents both a dream and a battleground for legal and ethical dilemmas. Additionally, the grounds serve as a summer camp, a cherished space for many children, enhancing the emotional stakes of Phil's journey.

🏡 Home 🏕️ Camp

Last Updated: June 04, 2025 at 07:47

Main Characters – American Dreamer (2024)

Meet the key characters of American Dreamer (2024), with detailed profiles, motivations, and roles in the plot. Understand their emotional journeys and what they reveal about the film’s deeper themes.

Phil Loder (Peter Dinklage)

Phil is a low-level professor with dreams of home ownership, driven by a mix of ambition and desperation. His character displays depth through his misanthropy and later vulnerability, as he navigates complex relationships and personal failures. Phil is ultimately a man searching for connection and security amidst chaos.

🎓 Professor 🏘️ Dreamer 🤯 Struggler

Astrid (Shirley MacLaine)

Astrid is a lonely widow with a prickly demeanor, yet she carries a rich history and serves as Phil's unexpected savior and emotional anchor. Her complex background and the bond she forms with Phil reveal her depth and vulnerability. Astrid's struggles with her children and her eventual emergencies create the emotional heart of the story.

👵 Widow 💖 Caregiver 🌟 Strong-willed

Maggie (Kimberly Quinn)

Maggie is Astrid's daughter and a lawyer, who becomes a central antagonist in Phil's pursuit of the house. Her fierce protectiveness over her mother's estate showcases her complexity as both a character rooted in familial loyalty and a driven professional. Maggie's confrontations with Phil add tension and conflict to the narrative.

⚖️ Lawyer 🛑 Protector 🔥 Driven

Jerry (Danny Glover)

Jerry is a legally blind private investigator who aids Phil in uncovering the truths about Maggie. His character represents wisdom and determination, providing much-needed support while navigating the murky waters of legal challenges. Jerry's interactions serve as a source of comic relief and grounding in Phil's chaotic journey.

👓 Investigator 🤝 Loyal Friend 🎭 Wise

Clare (Michelle Mylett)

Clare is a graduate student who becomes romantically involved with Phil, adding layers to his personal and professional struggles. Her character symbolizes both temptation and the consequences of Phil's decisions. Clare's actions and their repercussions push Phil further into emotional turmoil and self-reflection.

🎓 Student ❤️ Love Interest 🌪️ Troubled

Last Updated: June 04, 2025 at 07:47

Major Themes – American Dreamer (2024)

Explore the central themes of American Dreamer (2024), from psychological, social, and emotional dimensions to philosophical messages. Understand what the film is really saying beneath the surface.

🏠 Dreams

The pursuit of the American Dream is a central theme, embodied by Phil's desire to own a home. His relentless quest leads him to make risky financial decisions, showcasing the lengths individuals go to fulfill their dreams despite potential pitfalls. The theme explores the dichotomy between aspiration and reality, demonstrating how such dreams can both uplift and destroy.

💔 Relationships

The film delves into the intricacies of human relationships, highlighting connections that are formed and strained under pressure. Phil's interactions with Astrid, Maggie, and Clare illustrate the complexities of love, trust, and betrayal. As the story unfolds, it showcases how relationships can evolve, particularly in the face of adversities and misunderstandings.

⚖️ Morality

Navigating the ethical landscape of property rights and familial responsibility is a recurring theme. Phil's struggles raise questions about loyalty, morality, and the lengths one will go to protect their interests and those they care about. The story challenges viewers to consider what is just in matters of love, care, and financial agreement.

Last Updated: June 04, 2025 at 07:47

Unlock the Full Story of American Dreamer

Don't stop at just watching — explore American Dreamer 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 American Dreamer is all about. Plus, discover what's next after the movie.

American Dreamer Summary

Read a complete plot summary of American Dreamer, 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.

American Dreamer Summary

American Dreamer Timeline

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

American Dreamer Timeline

More About American Dreamer

Visit What's After the Movie to explore more about American Dreamer: 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 American Dreamer

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