Grassroots

Grassroots

Year: 2012

Runtime: 98 min

Language: English

Director: Stephen Gyllenhaal

DramaComedy

In 2001, a David takes on Goliath when grassroots candidate Cogswell challenges an incumbent city council member who's built a war chest and secured top endorsements. With his vision for a sleek monorail system foiled, Grant teams up with a fired journalist to run his campaign. Against all odds, they rally a passionate army of young volunteers, turning the impossible into a surprising reality in this offbeat political comedy.

Warning: spoilers below!

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Timeline – Grassroots (2012)
Trace every key event in Grassroots (2012) 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

Grant Cogswell's Journey Begins

The story unfolds with Grant Cogswell, an unemployed music critic, who is facing personal and professional challenges. He is characterized by his quirky decision to dress as a polar bear, representing his unique but troubled persona.

Seattle
2

The Call to Action

Grant begins to rally the disenchanted youth of Seattle, calling on them to take a stand against the political status quo. His impassioned speeches resonate with hipsters and idealists who are eager for change.

Seattle
3

Assembling the Team

To support his campaign, Grant forms a diverse team made up of misfits, slackers, and community outcasts. This eclectic group reflects the very spirit of his desire to bring change to the city council.

Seattle
4

The Incumbent Challenge

Grant sets his sights on defeating the entrenched incumbent in the Seattle City Council election. This presents a significant challenge, as he must overcome not only political barriers but also the skepticism of the electorate.

Seattle
5

Proposal for a Monorail

Amidst the campaign chaos, Grant proposes a grand vision of constructing a stunning monorail. This audacious idea captures the imagination of many and serves as a centerpiece of his campaign to transform the city.

Seattle
6

Grant's Unique Style

As he navigates through the political landscape, Grant’s unusual style and personality become both a strength and a liability. His dedication to dressing up as a polar bear becomes a metaphor for his fight against conventional norms.

Seattle
7

Building Community Support

Grant works tirelessly to build support from local communities, turning his campaign into a grassroots movement. His ability to connect with voters on a personal level starts to galvanize people in Seattle.

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8

The Political Roller Coaster

As the campaign progresses, Grant encounters unexpected challenges, filled with ups and downs that highlight the unpredictable nature of politics. His resilience is tested as he faces opposition from established political powers.

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9

Cogswell's Growth

Throughout the election process, Grant evolves as a character, revealing a deeper understanding of his community’s issues and needs. His passion drives not just his campaign but also his personal growth.

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10

Victory and Reflection

As election day approaches, the outcome remains uncertain, creating tension within Grant's team. Regardless of the result, the journey has profoundly transformed the participants, leaving them to reflect on their impact.

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11

The Election Results

When the votes are finally counted, the results of the election reveal whether Grant’s efforts have paid off. This moment serves as a culmination of all his hard work and dedication throughout the campaign.

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12

Aftermath and New Beginnings

Following the election, the story explores the aftermath of Grant’s campaign, regardless of the results. It highlights the changes in the community and the new avenues open for engagement among the city's residents.

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13

Legacy of Change

The film concludes by reflecting on the impact Grant's campaign had on the grassroots movement in Seattle. It emphasizes the importance of civic engagement and how one person's vision can inspire others to take action.

Seattle

Last Updated: October 25, 2024 at 09:50

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