I’ll Do Anything

I’ll Do Anything

Year: 1994

Runtime: 115 mins

Language: English

Director: James L. Brooks

DramaComedy

Struggling actor Matt Hobbs becomes sole caretaker of his six‑year‑old daughter Jeanie after estranged ex‑wife Beth leaves her with him. As he juggles a budding romance with production assistant Cathy Breslow, Jeanie's demanding, spirited nature tests his patience, forcing Matt to choose between his career and his new family.

I’ll Do Anything (1994) – Spoiler-Free Movie Summary & Plot Overview

Get a spoiler-free look at I’ll Do Anything (1994) with a clear plot overview that covers the setting, main characters, and story premise—without revealing key twists or the ending. Perfect for deciding if this film is your next watch.

In the restless glow of 1990s Hollywood, a once‑promising actor finds his world upended when his estranged ex‑wife hands over their six‑year‑old daughter. Matt Hobbs—a talent‑scarred performer constantly chasing his next break—must suddenly navigate the chaotic rhythm of single parenthood. The city’s glittering studios and fickle casting calls loom as a backdrop to the quieter, more immediate pressures of bedtime stories, school pick‑ups, and the fierce, unapologetic energy of a child who refuses to be an afterthought.

As Matt strives to keep his career afloat, a tentative romance buds with a sharp‑witted production assistant who knows the industry’s hidden currents. Cathy Breslow offers a glimpse of stability and shared ambition, yet their connection is tested by the competing demands of fame and family. Meanwhile, Beth’s absence leaves both mother and daughter in an undefined limbo, forcing Matt to confront what it truly means to be present for the people who matter most.

The film settles into a gentle, sometimes bittersweet tone, blending the high‑stakes allure of show business with the ordinary, heart‑warming moments of everyday life. Jeanie—bright, opinionated, and irresistibly charismatic—acts as both catalyst and compass, urging her father to reevaluate his definition of success. Surrounded by colourful industry personalities, including a larger‑than‑life producer whose ambitions echo the larger Hollywood machine, the story explores the delicate balance between artistic aspiration and the simple, grounding love that can reshape a life, even when the spotlight feels far away.

Last Updated: November 25, 2025 at 15:22

Mobile App Preview

Coming soon on iOS and Android

The Plot Explained Mobile App

From blockbusters to hidden gems — dive into movie stories anytime, anywhere. Save your favorites, discover plots faster, and never miss a twist again.

Sign up to be the first to know when we launch. Your email stays private — always.

Explore Movie Threads

Discover curated groups of movies connected by mood, themes, and story style. Browse collections built around emotion, atmosphere, and narrative focus to easily find films that match what you feel like watching right now.

Showbiz Satire Meets Heartfelt Family Drama like in I’ll Do Anything

Profiles of ambition and ego, softened by the demands of parenthood.If you enjoyed the Hollywood cynicism and familial warmth of I’ll Do Anything, this list features movies like it. These films blend satirical takes on ambitious careers with heartfelt stories about the personal growth found through family responsibility.

satiricalheartwarmingreflectivefamilialhopefulintrospective

Narrative Summary

These narratives follow ambitious, often self-involved protagonists whose career pursuits are interrupted or redefined by a new family obligation, typically parenthood. The central conflict pits professional ambition against personal responsibility, leading to a journey of re-evaluation where success is measured not in accolades but in human connection.

Why These Movies?

Movies are grouped here for their unique dual-vibe: a sharp, sometimes funny look at a specific industry world, paired with a sincere emotional core centered on family bonding. They share a bittersweet tone, balancing professional disappointment with personal victory.

The Reluctant Single Parent's Redemption like in I’ll Do Anything

Unprepared parents find purpose through unexpected responsibility.For viewers who liked the father-daughter journey in I’ll Do Anything, this thread collects similar movies about unprepared parents. These films follow characters who find redemption and personal growth through the challenges and joys of sudden single parenthood.

heartwarmingresilientfamilialhopefulintrospectiveredemptive

Narrative Summary

The plot pattern involves a character, often flawed or career-focused, who must suddenly become a full-time parent due to unforeseen circumstances. The journey is one of struggle, frustration, and ultimately profound bonding, as the protagonist is forced to prioritize their child's needs over their own, leading to a happy or hopeful resolution centered on familial love.

Why These Movies?

These films share a core character arc of personal growth catalyzed by parenthood. They possess a medium emotional weight, balancing the difficulties of adjustment with heartwarming moments of connection, resulting in a resilient and hopeful mood.

Unlock the Full Story of I’ll Do Anything

Don't stop at just watching — explore I’ll Do Anything 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 I’ll Do Anything is all about. Plus, discover what's next after the movie.

I’ll Do Anything Summary

Read a complete plot summary of I’ll Do Anything, including all key story points, character arcs, and turning points. This in-depth recap is ideal for understanding the narrative structure or reviewing what happened in the movie.

I’ll Do Anything Summary

I’ll Do Anything Timeline

Track the full timeline of I’ll Do Anything with every major event arranged chronologically. Perfect for decoding non-linear storytelling, flashbacks, or parallel narratives with a clear scene-by-scene breakdown.

I’ll Do Anything Timeline

Characters, Settings & Themes in I’ll Do Anything

Discover the characters, locations, and core themes that shape I’ll Do Anything. Get insights into symbolic elements, setting significance, and deeper narrative meaning — ideal for thematic analysis and movie breakdowns.

Characters, Settings & Themes in I’ll Do Anything

More About I’ll Do Anything

Visit What's After the Movie to explore more about I’ll Do Anything: box office results, cast and crew info, production details, post-credit scenes, and external links — all in one place for movie fans and researchers.

More About I’ll Do Anything

Similar Movies to I’ll Do Anything

Discover movies like I’ll Do Anything that share similar genres, themes, and storytelling elements. Whether you’re drawn to the atmosphere, character arcs, or plot structure, these curated recommendations will help you explore more films you’ll love.