Garbo Talks

Estelle Rolfe learns she has a terminal brain tumor, shattering her family's sense of time. With her remaining days, she makes a bold request: she wants to meet Greta Garbo, the star she has idolized for decades. This wish becomes the driving force of the entire story.

Gilbert vows to fulfill his mother's wish and sets out to locate the reclusive Garbo. He resigns himself to a long, uncertain search that will test his relationships and finances.

Gilbert starts missing work and draining their savings in pursuit of leads to Garbo. His wife Lisa grows increasingly frustrated by the disruption and ultimately leaves him.

Jane Mortimer, a co-worker and aspiring actress, enters Gilbert's life with warmth and a growing romantic attraction. Her presence provides emotional support as the search intensifies, and their evolving relationship offers a counterpoint to the obsession with meeting Garbo.

Gilbert attaches himself to Angelo Dokakis, an aging paparazzo who once photographed Garbo and knows her habits. They stake out Garbo's apartment building for several days but fail to locate her.

Another lead comes from Elizabeth Rennick, an elderly actress who once knew Garbo. She advises Gilbert to look for Garbo at a local flea market, offering a last, practical chance to find her.

At the flea market, Gilbert finally comes face-to-face with Garbo and explains his mother's illness. Garbo's silent response carries weight, giving him a moment of validation and hope.

Garbo goes to Estelle's hospital bedside, sitting with her without uttering a word. Her quiet, empathetic gesture becomes a powerful, understated moment of connection.

Estelle dies the day after Garbo's visit, marking an emotional turning point for Gilbert. He harvests a new resolve about what matters most in life.

On the following day, Gilbert resigns from his job and tells off his boss. The act marks a turning point toward personal priorities and freedom from his previous obsession.

Gilbert and Jane's romance continues to develop as they share grief and new hopes. They walk together through the city, rebuilding their bond.

Garbo appears in the city park, approaching Gilbert as he and Jane stroll. Jane is startled, and Garbo pauses to say hello to Gilbert, providing a final, human connection to Estelle's quest.