Imagine That

Imagine That

Year: 2009

Runtime: 107 min

Language: English

Director: Karey Kirkpatrick

Budget: $55M

DramaFantasyComedyFamily

A dedicated workaholic, Evan Danielson, unexpectedly reconnects with his young daughter, Olivia. Through her extraordinary imagination, they embark on incredible, fantastical journeys together. As Evan experiences these adventures, he begins to re-evaluate his priorities and rediscover the joy of fatherhood, learning valuable lessons about life and the power of imagination.

Imagine That (2009) – Spoiler-Free Movie Summary & Plot Overview

Get a spoiler-free look at Imagine That (2009) 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 bustling world of high‑stakes finance, Evan Danielson has built his identity around deadlines, spreadsheets, and the relentless pursuit of corporate success. Beneath the polished exterior of his office, however, a quieter life waits—a seven‑year‑old daughter whose boundless imagination paints a realm far removed from quarterly reports. When their paths cross in an unexpected way, the gray corridors of the boardroom begin to echo with the colors of make‑believe, inviting a weary executive to glimpse a world where dragons, invisible bridges, and enchanted princesses share the same space as conference calls.

Olivia approaches life with the earnest curiosity of a child who sees magic in everyday objects—a beloved blanket, an imaginary kingdom, and friends who live only in her mind. Her vivid storytelling becomes a portal, offering Evan a chance to step out of his tightly scheduled routine and into landscapes that bend reality with a simple whisper of wonder. The tone of their shared journey balances heartfelt comedy with a gentle, almost nostalgic reverence for the power of imagination, reminding viewers that the line between work and play can be delightfully porous.

As the pair navigate this dual existence, the contrast between corporate ambition and childlike fantasy creates a warm, comedic tension that fuels the film’s core. The setting shifts fluidly from sleek office towers to the lush, unfettered expanses of Olivia’s invented worlds, each scene underscored by a light‑hearted yet sincere score that celebrates the joy of rediscovering forgotten joys. It is a story that asks whether success is measured solely in profit margins or also in the quiet moments of connection that can transform a hard‑nosed executive into a more present, imaginative parent.

Last Updated: August 10, 2025 at 08:52

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Movies with Magical Childhood Imagination like Imagine That

Stories where a child's vibrant imagination transforms the adult world.Explore movies like Imagine That where a child's extraordinary imagination leads to real-world adventures and personal growth. If you enjoyed the blend of fantasy and heartfelt family dynamics, these films offer similar uplifting and whimsical journeys.

whimsicalimaginativeplayfulheartwarmingupliftinghopefulfantasyfamily-friendly

Narrative Summary

The narrative typically revolves around an adult, often preoccupied or disconnected, who is pulled into the imaginative world of a child. Through these fantastical experiences, the adult character undergoes a transformation, learning valuable lessons about life, relationships, and joy, leading to a positive resolution of their personal conflict.

Why These Movies?

These films are grouped together for their shared core premise of a child's imagination having a tangible, magical impact on reality. They consistently feature a whimsical tone, light emotional weight, and a hopeful, happy ending, creating a comforting and uplifting viewing experience centered on the power of creativity.

Movies about Workaholic Parents like in Imagine That

Heartwarming tales of stressed professionals finding purpose through their children.Discover films similar to Imagine That that explore the theme of a work-obsessed parent learning life's most important lessons from their child. If you liked the story of Evan reconnecting with Olivia, these movies offer the same heartfelt redemption arc and focus on work-life balance.

heartwarmingupliftingredemptionfamilypersonal growthwork-life balancehopefultouching

Narrative Summary

The plot follows a predictable but satisfying arc: a successful but emotionally distant parent faces a professional crisis. Forced to spend time with their child, they initially struggle but gradually form a deep bond. The child's simple perspective helps the parent see the emptiness of their career-driven life, culminating in a conscious choice to embrace family, often leading to professional success as well.

Why These Movies?

These movies share a core character archetype and redemption journey. They balance the tension of corporate life with the warmth of family bonds, resulting in a steady-paced, medium-intensity narrative with a consistently uplifting and happy conclusion that reaffirms the value of personal connections over professional accolades.

Unlock the Full Story of Imagine That

Don't stop at just watching — explore Imagine That 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 Imagine That is all about. Plus, discover what's next after the movie.

Imagine That Summary

Read a complete plot summary of Imagine That, 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.

Imagine That Summary

Imagine That Timeline

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

Imagine That Timeline

Characters, Settings & Themes in Imagine That

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

Characters, Settings & Themes in Imagine That

More About Imagine That

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More About Imagine That

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