Jay Kelly

After finishing his latest film, Jay hopes to spend several quiet days with his youngest daughter, Daisy. She shows little interest in a father-daughter trip and prefers to go off with her friends, widening the distance between them. The situation sets the emotional tone for the film as they both wonder if they can bridge the gap.

Ron informs Jay that Peter Schneider, the director who once took a chance on him, has died. The news brings up memories of past choices and lost opportunities. The moment underscores the fragile leverage Jay still has in the industry and the looming question of his legacy.

The backstory reveals that months earlier Schneider asked Jay to attach his name to a film to help secure financing, but Jay refused. The decision haunts him as he navigates the consequences in the present. This choice helps explain his ongoing ambivalence toward old allies and opportunities.

Jay attends Schneider's funeral, reflecting on their complicated history and the changing tides of the film industry. The ceremony marks a turning point where old loyalties feel more fragile than ever. The mood shifts toward the present crisis in Jay's career.

At a bar, Jay reunites with Tim, his old acting school roommate who is now a child psychologist. Their conversation turns volatile as Tim accuses Jay of stealing his girlfriend and the role that made him famous. The argument erupts into a physical clash, leaving Jay with a black eye.

The next morning, Jay drops out of his upcoming film and books a flight to Europe. Ron warns that walking away could wreck what remains of his career, but Jay frames the trip as a Dior appearance followed by an award ceremony in Tuscany. His departure marks a deliberate retreat from his established life.

Meg, Jay's assistant, tracks Daisy by inspecting a friend's card transactions. By the time Jay and his team reach Paris, Daisy is already on a train out of the city. The pursuit carries Jay toward Europe, setting up an awkward reunion that tests their bond.

Onboard the train, Jay is recognized by fellow passengers but treated as part of the crowds rather than a star. Daisy is onboard, and their paths cross, though she quickly realizes he has been following her. Their tense dining-car reunion underscores the fragile state of their relationship.

News spreads online that Tim intends to sue Jay for assault, amplifying the gossip surrounding the trip. At the same time, Ron leaves to meet another client, Ben Alcock, who fires him on the spot. The double fallout deepens Jay's sense of exposure and vulnerability.

Jay's father arrives in Tuscany looking tired and dizzy, asking to go back to Maine. Jay pleads for him to stay, but the taxi drives off without him. This moment deepens the emotional toll on Jay as he confronts the fragility of family ties.

Jay calls his older daughter Jessica and asks her to visit. She refuses, reminding him of the day she brought him to therapy and the painful distance between them. The scene reinforces the film's themes of family rifts and missed connections.

Seeing Ron's taxi, Jay runs after it and begs him to come to the tribute. Ron agrees but makes clear that their professional relationship is over. Jay finally understands that he has spent years confusing paid loyalty with real love, a realization that reframes his priorities.

At the tribute, Jay faces the cameras and, after a moment, quietly says "Another shot". The line signals a turning point in his self-perception and his willingness to confront his life with honesty. The moment closes the arc with a note of cautious hope.