-->
Year: 2009
Runtime: 98 min
Language: English
Director: Sam Mendes
As a thirtysomething couple prepares for parenthood, they're forced to re-evaluate their life choices when their unconventional in-laws suddenly uproot themselves. Embarking on a cross-country journey to visit friends, family, and potential new homes, Burt and Verona navigate the complexities of growing up and finding stability amidst uncertainty.
Warning: spoilers below!
Haven’t seen Away We Go yet? This summary contains major spoilers. Bookmark the page, watch the movie, and come back for the full breakdown. If you're ready, scroll on and relive the story!
Verona De Tessant, played by Maya Rudolph, and Burt Farlander, portrayed by John Krasinski, are a couple in their early thirties navigating the challenges of adulthood while trying to find their footing in the world. Verona, an aspiring anatomy artist, and Burt, a salesman of insurance futures, are thrown into a whirlwind when they discover they’re expecting a child. This news ignites a pressing concern about the kind of environment they want to create for their new family.
As Verona enters her sixth month of pregnancy, the couple attempts to connect with Burt’s parents, Gloria and Jerry, who are unexpectedly preparing to relocate to Antwerp, Belgium, a mere month before the due date. Feeling frustrated by their lack of support, Burt and Verona seize the moment to explore new possibilities for where to raise their child.
Their journey begins in Phoenix, Arizona, where they reconnect with Verona’s former boss, Allison Janney, and her husband, Lowell, alongside their children. However, Burt is disturbed by the family’s unpleasant dynamics and the contentious interaction between Lily and Lowell.
Continuing their quest, they travel to Tucson to visit Verona’s sister, Grace. While Grace encourages Verona to open up about their deceased parents during a shopping trip, Burt’s affable humor reassures her about their relationship.
Later, they attempt to fly to Wisconsin, but due to misunderstanding about Verona’s pregnancy stage, they instead board a train. In Madison, they meet Burt’s childhood friend, “LN,” played by Maggie Gyllenhaal, who has unconventional views on parenting. The meeting soon turns tense when their gift of a stroller is met with disdain.
Their travels take them to Montreal, where they find solace in the warmth of old college friends, Tom and Munch. Amidst the laughter and stories shared, Verona and Burt contemplate making Montreal their new home. However, during a dance night at a bar, Burt learns of Munch’s struggles with loss, creating a poignant bond between the friends.
Their journey culminates in Miami, where Burt comforts his brother Courtney, who is grappling with his wife leaving him and the impact on his young daughter. Verona offers her support by spending time with his child. After an emotional night spent reminiscing and promising to create a loving home for their daughter, they find clarity in their desire to settle in Verona’s childhood home, taking in the serenity of their surroundings together.
Last Updated: November 03, 2024 at 14:14
Away We Go (2009) Scene-by-Scene Movie Timeline
Away We Go (2009) Movie Characters, Themes & Settings
Movies Like Away We Go – Similar Titles You’ll Enjoy
Without Saying Goodbye (2022) Ending Explained & Film Insights
Look Both Ways (2022) Film Overview & Timeline
Two for the Road (1967) Ending Explained & Film Insights
On the Road (2012) Complete Plot Breakdown
The Daytrippers (1997) Spoiler-Packed Plot Recap
Up in the Air (2009) Full Movie Breakdown
On My Way (2014) Plot Summary & Ending Explained
Unpregnant (2020) Ending Explained & Film Insights
Hello I Must Be Going (2012) Ending Explained & Film Insights
Goodbye to All That (2014) Detailed Story Recap
Crossroads (2002) Complete Plot Breakdown
Before We Go (2015) Full Summary & Key Details
And So It Goes (2014) Film Overview & Timeline
Three for the Road (1987) Spoiler-Packed Plot Recap
Hit the Road (2022) Full Movie Breakdown