King of the Hill

In the midst of the Great Depression in 1933 St. Louis, Aaron Kurlander excitedly shares a writing assignment about his idol, aviator Charles Lindbergh. This project reflects Aaron's aspirations and his admiration for Lindbergh’s historic solo transatlantic flight in 1927.

After school, Aaron reprimands his younger brother Sullivan for attempting to steal another child's dessert. This event highlights the challenges of their impoverished upbringing and the struggles they face during the Great Depression.

At the rundown Empire Hotel, Sullivan begs Aaron to teach him how to play marbles. Although initially reluctant, Aaron acquiesces and gives Sullivan some marbles, showcasing the bond between the brothers amidst their tough circumstances.

The brothers learn that Sullivan will be staying with their uncle until their father, Eric Kurlander, secures a job. This situation underlines the family's financial struggle and uncertainty for their future living conditions.

At school, Aaron steps in to defend wealthy classmate Billy Thompson by challenging bullies to a game of marbles. His decisive victory earns him the gratitude and friendship of Billy, who invites him to his home afterward.

Aaron's teacher, Miss Mathey, discovers discrepancies in his background during a discussion about his writing. She realizes he is homeless, shedding light on Aaron's desperate attempts to conceal his family’s struggles.

Mrs. Kurlander reveals her need to return to a sanitarium for treatment of her tuberculosis. This news deepens the family's troubles, highlighting the toll that illness and poverty take on their lives.

Aaron attempts to help his friend Lester with a golf caddying job, but the outing proves disappointing. This moment illustrates Aaron's yearning for a more stable life amidst the chaos surrounding him.

After being invited to dinner by neighbor Ella McShane, Aaron experiences a poignant moment of connection, which turns distressing when she suffers an epileptic seizure. This incident leaves Aaron shaken but also highlights his emotional struggles.

On the day of his graduation, Aaron dons a new suit and kisses Ella goodbye, making a poignant farewell. During the ceremony, he unexpectedly wins an award for good character, yet he is haunted by the absence of his family.

Aaron returns to find an eviction notice displayed at the Empire Hotel, marking a low point in his family's struggle. This escalates his feelings of abandonment and uncertainty as he grapples with their reality.

In a desperate attempt to support his family, Aaron sells the canaries he bought, only to realize they are all female and worthless. His meager earnings of fifty cents lead him to purchase a kitten for recovering Ella, showcasing his caring nature.

Returning with news of his new job as a clerk for the Works Progress Administration, Mr. Kurlander's arrival brings a glimmer of hope to the struggling family. He affirms his intention to improve their living situation despite pressing financial concerns.

In a heartwarming climax, the reunited Kurlander family moves into a new apartment at the Carleton Court. This moment signifies their resilience and determination to overcome adversity together.

In a bold act against the oppressive bellhop of the hotel, Aaron locks away the padlocks used to suppress struggling tenants. This act of rebellion illustrates his growing courage and desire to fight back against their challenging circumstances.