Away We Go

Away We Go

Year: 2009

Runtime: 98 min

Language: English

Director: Sam Mendes

Budget: $17M

DramaComedyRomance

A couple in their thirties, expecting their first child, faces an unexpected upheaval when their eccentric in-laws announce they're moving. Burt and Verona decide to hit the road, traveling across the United States to connect with friends, relatives, and explore possible new living situations. Along the way, they grapple with the challenges of impending parenthood and search for a sense of belonging and stability in a rapidly changing world.

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Away We Go (2009) – Full Plot Summary & Ending Explained

Read the complete plot breakdown of Away We Go (2009), including all key story events, major twists, and the ending explained in detail. Discover what really happened—and what it all means.

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

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Journeys of Self-Discovery like in Away We Go

Characters hit the road to find themselves and what truly matters in life.Explore movies like 'Away We Go' where characters embark on transformative journeys. If you enjoyed the road trip as a means of self-discovery, you'll find similar stories here about searching for meaning, home, and personal identity through travel.

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These stories typically follow a linear, episodic structure mirroring the physical journey. The protagonist moves from one encounter to the next, with each stop presenting a new challenge, perspective, or reflection of a potential life path. The central conflict is internal, as the character grapples with questions of identity and belonging.

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They are grouped by their shared focus on the journey as a catalyst for introspection. The pacing is steady and deliberate, allowing for contemplative moments, and the tone is often hopeful, centered on the possibility of positive change and finding one's place in the world.

Intimate Relationship Crossroads Movies like Away We Go

Couples facing a major life change test the strength of their bond.Discover movies similar to 'Away We Go' that explore couples at a turning point. If you liked the intimate portrayal of a relationship tested by impending parenthood, you'll appreciate these gentle dramas about commitment and building a life together.

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The narrative is built around the central couple, with external events serving primarily to test and strengthen their relationship. The plot is straightforward, avoiding complex subplots to maintain focus on the emotional dynamics between the two leads. The journey culminates in a reaffirmation of their commitment.

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These films share a low-intensity, intimate vibe that prioritizes emotional authenticity over dramatic plot twists. They feature strong romance elements, a medium emotional weight that deals seriously with life changes but maintains a hopeful core, and a comforting, reassuring feel despite the challenges faced.

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Away We Go Timeline

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Characters, Settings & Themes in Away We Go

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Characters, Settings & Themes in Away We Go

Away We Go Spoiler-Free Summary

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More About Away We Go

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