Hard Feelings

The film begins with Gary, a tow truck driver, arriving at the home of Maddie Barker to repossess her car. This confrontation is tense as Maddie tries to appeal to Gary's emotions, reminding him of their previous relationship, but her efforts are undermined by her new hookup emerging from her house.

After her car is taken, Maddie tries to rollerblade after Gary to stop him, leading to a chaotic scene at a diner. In an attempt to reclaim her car, she ends up getting arrested and faces probation, while also learning about her tax debts that threaten her home.

While working as a bartender, Maddie's best friend Sara shows her a job listing looking for someone to date a rich family's son, Percy, in exchange for a car. Despite the questionable nature of the job, Maddie decides to pursue this opportunity to secure her financial future.

Maddie arrives at the Becker family's home and meets Percy’s parents, who explain their son’s awkwardness and social struggles. They agree to keep their dating arrangement a secret from Percy, opening the door for Maddie's unexpected new role in his life.

Maddie tries to seduce Percy under the guise of adopting a dog at the shelter where he works. Their initial meeting is filled with awkward moments, culminating when Percy panics and sprays Maddie with mace after a misunderstanding.

Maddie takes Percy to the beach for a daring skinny-dipping adventure, but their fun turns chaotic when they are robbed by three drunk teens. Maddie confronts them fiercely, showcasing her impulsive nature and disturbing Percy in the process.

After a tumultuous day, Maddie tries to seduce Percy again with a dance at her home. This moment turns introspective as they both share embarrassing stories, allowing for emotional bonding, but it reveals Percy's insecurities.

Maddie accepts Percy's invitation for a real date at an arcade, where they win prizes and share lighthearted moments. This outing solidifies their budding relationship, but Maddie's jealousy flares when Percy connects with a classmate.

The duo enjoys a fancy dinner, reminiscent of their missed prom experiences. Percy astounds everyone by playing the piano in the restaurant, boosting his confidence, but Maddie frets over his growing attention from other girls.

Maddie discovers Percy at a high school party, only to find him in bed with another girl after a night of drinking. A chaotic scene unfolds, leading to Maddie's realization that she needs to establish boundaries with Percy.

After overhearing an uncomfortable conversation between Maddie and his parents regarding their arrangement, Percy is devastated. He confronts Maddie, and their relationship is put to the test as tensions rise.

Facing the reality of her financial situation, Maddie decides to sell her house and makes future plans to move to California. She chooses to sell it to Jim and Sara, allowing them to raise their child in a place dear to her.

Maddie finds Percy at a Princeton mixer, attempting to explain her side of things. Their confrontation escalates to a beach where they finally clear the air and reconcile, reaffirming their bond before Maddie’s departure.

On the morning of Percy’s departure for Princeton, he shares a heartfelt farewell with his parents. Maddie surprises him, offering to drive him to college and revealing that she adopted Milo, the dog they discussed, symbolizing her growth.