Billboard

Billboard

Year: 2019

Runtime: 89 min

Language: English

Director: Zeke Zelker

Echo Score: 35
Drama

Casey Lindeweiler unexpectedly inherits WTYT 960, a radio station facing financial difficulties. Desperate to boost ratings and save the station, he develops an unusual promotional contest. Four contestants compete for a $96,000 prize by enduring a publicity stunt: surviving as long as possible on a billboard catwalk, exposed to the elements and constant public attention.

Warning: spoilers below!

Haven’t seen Billboard 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!

Timeline – Billboard (2019)

Trace every key event in Billboard (2019) with our detailed, chronological timeline. Perfect for unpacking nonlinear stories, spotting hidden connections, and understanding how each scene builds toward the film’s climax. Whether you're revisiting or decoding for the first time, this timeline gives you the full picture.

1

Casey Inherits WTYT 960

Casey Lindeweiler unexpectedly returns to his hometown of Allentown, Pennsylvania, after inheriting the struggling AM radio station, WTYT 960, from his father. To his dismay, he discovers that the station is laden with debt and is barely surviving due to a devoted group of DJs striving to keep it afloat.

Allentown, Pennsylvania
2

DJs Struggle to Preserve the Station

After Casey's arrival, he learns about the passionate efforts of the DJs who are dedicated to maintaining the station's independence. Despite their hard work, ratings continue to dwindle, indicating a desperate situation that calls for immediate action.

WTYT 960 Radio Station
3

Idea for a Billboard Contest

Faced with increasing pressure to boost ratings, Casey considers one of radio's oldest promotional strategies: an outrageous contest. He devises a unique billboard-sitting contest where four contestants will endure the challenge of sitting on a catwalk in front of a billboard for a chance to win a mobile home and $960,000.

4

Contest Launches

The billboard-sitting contest kicks off, generating initial buzz and excitement among the local community. However, it soon turns into a media spectacle, attracting attention and curiosity in ways Casey hadn’t anticipated, turning WTYT 960 into a source of community jokes.

Allentown, Pennsylvania
5

Shift in Public Perception

While initially the contest is viewed as a ridiculous publicity stunt, it surprisingly captures a wider audience's interest. Casey watches as the contest shifts the station's trajectory, bringing unexpected notoriety and attention, though not all of it is positive.

6

Contestants Endure Hardships

As the contest progresses, Casey witnesses the toll it takes on the contestants, who endure physical and emotional challenges. He begins to empathize with their struggles as he realizes that the contest has become an intense demonstration of endurance and desperation.

7

Rival Stations Strike Back

As the contest garners more attention, rival radio stations launch a smear campaign against Casey and WTYT 960. Faced with increasingly negative media narratives, Casey begins to grapple with the harsh realities of public perception and its impact on his efforts.

8

Nature Throws a Curveball

Amid the contest, nature begins to intervene, throwing unpredicted challenges at the contestants and adding to the growing pressure on Casey. The combination of physical discomfort and unpredictable weather complicates the event further, pushing everyone involved to their limits.

9

Public Outcry Emerges

As the days drag on, the public's perception shifts from amusement to concern, leading to an outcry for Casey to terminate the contest. This public sentiment forces him to confront not only the ongoing challenges of the competition but also the consequences of his actions as a media figure.

10

Self-Reflection and Decision Time

With mounting pressure, Casey must reflect on his motivations and the toll of his contest. He faces a critical decision regarding the future of WTYT 960 and his father's legacy, contrasting personal ambition with ethical responsibilities.

11

The Contest's Climax

As the contest nears its climax, emotions run high, and the remaining contestants showcase their resolve and determination to win. Casey is caught between his desire for success and the morality of continuing the contest amidst growing public backlash.

12

Resolution of the Contest

In the end, the contest resolves with Casey making a difficult choice about its continuation. He learns valuable lessons about media influence, ethical dilemmas, and the importance of community in shaping his decisions going forward.

13

Aftermath and Reflection

Following the contest, Casey reflects on the tumultuous journey he's undergone throughout the event. The experience not only test his entrepreneurial spirit but ultimately leads him to a deeper understanding of his father's legacy and the values of the community.

14

Casey's New Direction

With the contest behind him, Casey emerges with newfound resilience and a clearer vision for WTYT 960. He resolves to prioritize the station's independence and the community's needs, ensuring that his father's legacy continues in a meaningful way.

Last Updated: October 25, 2024 at 08:34

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Unlock the Full Story of Billboard

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

Billboard Summary

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Billboard Summary

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