Being There

Chance has lived a sheltered life in a wealthy old man's townhouse in Washington, D.C. He is cared for by a kind maid named Louise and spends his time gardening and watching television, oblivious to the world outside.

After the old man's death, Chance is unceremoniously evicted from the townhouse by the estate's lawyers. This marks his first encounter with the outside world, leading him to navigate a reality he is completely unfamiliar with.

While wandering outside, Chance is confronted by a young man brandishing a knife. In a comically absurd reaction, he attempts to use a TV remote control to escape, showing his naivety and lack of experience with real danger.

Chance is struck by a limousine driven by Eve Rand, the glamorous wife of tycoon Ben Rand. When she asks for his name, he innocently introduces himself as 'Chance, the gardener,' which she misinterprets as 'Chauncey Gardiner.'

Eve takes Chauncey to her opulent estate, where he meets Dr. Allenby, who invites him to stay. Due to his old-fashioned manners and unusual clothing, Chauncey seamlessly blends into high society, sparking curiosity among the elite.

When Ben Rand meets Chauncey, he misinterprets him as a distressed businessman. Ben admires Chauncey's apparent wisdom and candidness, unintentionally elevating him into high social status and influence.

During a conversation about economic growth, Chauncey uses gardening terms that are misconstrued as insightful political strategies. This misunderstanding boosts his popularity and turns him into a media sensation, reflecting the absurdities of perception.

Chauncey gains unprecedented media attention, enjoying the perks of fame. He attends high-profile events and even builds rapport with the Soviet ambassador, all the while remaining unaware of the true nature of his situation.

Amidst Chauncey's newfound fame, Louise expresses her dismay and concern about Chance's success. She believes it is a superficial result of his race and not a reflection of his abilities, dubbing him as someone with 'rice pudding between the ears'.

Dr. Allenby becomes skeptical of Chance's true identity and worries that the facade he presents is merely a charade. He faces a moral dilemma, torn between revealing the truth and allowing Ben to find happiness in his last days.

As Ben encourages Eve to be with Chauncey, she finds herself increasingly attracted to him. Though Chance is oblivious to her romantic advances, their relationship evolves amidst the backdrop of Chance's ignorance of social norms.

In the wake of Ben's passing, Chance genuinely mourns the loss, reflecting on his feelings for Eve. This moment of vulnerability reveals his emotional depth as he grapples with his identity as merely a gardener.

At Ben's funeral, the President delivers a speech that includes a contemplation of potential successors for Ben’s position. Surprisingly, some attendees consider Chauncey as a suitable candidate, further highlighting the absurdity of the situation.

While reflecting on his thoughts amidst a winter landscape, Chauncey walks across a frozen lake without sinking, creating a surreal moment. This act of tranquility underscores his enigmatic presence as he remains oblivious to the significance of his actions.

As onlookers witness Chauncey's serene demeanor, the President echoes Ben's words that 'Life is a state of mind.' This encapsulates the essence of Chance's journey and how perception alters reality in the world he has stumbled into.