Everybody's Fine

Frank Goode, played by Robert De Niro, is facing the challenges of widowhood after the passing of his wife eight months ago. Recently retired from a long career in the communications industry, he struggles with a lung condition that complicates his life even further.

Determined to reconnect with his four children, Frank prepares for a weekend gathering at his home. He buys steaks and fine wine, hoping to create a festive atmosphere where they can bond and celebrate together.

When Frank begins to reach out, he discovers that his children are unavailable for the get-together. His son Robert is on tour with his orchestra, leaving Frank feeling disheartened as he listens to messages revealing that the rest of his children are also busy.

Despite receiving disappointing news, Frank is determined to surprise each of his children with personal visits. Ignoring his doctor’s advice to rest, he sets off on a journey across the country to reconnect with them.

Frank starts his journey with a train ride to New York City to see his son David. On the train, he shares his pride in his professional achievements, reflecting on how his work helped advance global communications.

Upon arriving at David’s apartment, Frank is met with silence and darkness, receiving no response at the door. A brief visit to a gallery unveils a painting by David, evoking painful reflections on their strained relationship.

Frank travels to Chicago to visit his daughter Amy, where he unexpectedly finds her at home. However, he soon uncovers the tumultuous state of her life, including shocking news about David's arrest in Mexico, a burden his children hoped to keep from him.

Continuing his journey, Frank arrives in Denver to visit Robert, who reveals that he is happy with his music career but struggles with the weight of Frank's expectations. Despite his pride, Robert cannot host Frank due to a conflicting orchestra tour.

As Frank's travels continue, he reflects on his failures as a parent, shaped by misunderstandings and an urgent desire to connect with his children. Each encounter reveals the emotional burdens he has placed on them through his relentless need for achievement.

During a stop in Reno, Frank has a startling encounter with a vagrant that leads to a chaotic struggle over his medication. This moment underscores his growing sense of isolation and the urgency to mend his fractured relationships.

Frank suffers a heart attack while on a flight, which brings him face-to-face with surreal visions of his children as they were young. This critical moment forces him to confront the unresolved issues that have long plagued their family dynamics.

Upon regaining consciousness after his heart attack, Frank is informed of David's tragic overdose. This devastating news culminates his quest for understanding, revealing the emotional strife and denial that his children experienced.

In the aftermath of his revelations, Frank makes a poignant visit to the grave of his late wife. There, he grapples with his feelings of guilt and remorse, searching for a sense of peace as he reflects on their shared lives.

As Christmas approaches, Frank invites his children for a family gathering in hopes of fostering new memories. While preparing the turkey, he reflects on their past joys and vulnerabilities, admitting to them that ‘everybody's fine’ despite their struggles.

The film concludes with a heartfelt song by Sir Paul McCartney, emphasizing themes of reconciliation and love amidst life's challenges. Frank's journey comes full circle as he embraces his children with a renewed understanding of their complex relationships.