Life Begins at Eight-Thirty

New York actor Madden Thomas, in a state of alcohol-fueled distress, loses his job as Santa Claus at a department store on Christmas Eve. The humiliation exposes his drinking problem and threatens his relationship with his young daughter. The moment sets Madden on a fragile path toward redemption.

A young composer and neighbor, Robert Carter, finds Madden in distress and helps him get home to his daughter. He also begins to show care and becomes a stabilizing presence in Madden's life. The encounter sparks the chance of a new friendship.

Robert Carter, Madden's new neighbor and a young composer, reaches out to Kathi and forms a genuine bond with her. His kindness and interest give Kathi hope and warmth, and Madden begins to see a possible support network. The friendship helps stabilize the family during a turbulent time.

Robert uses his influence to get Madden a paid role in a minor play for which he also did the music. The job offers a real chance at a comeback and a platform to prove his talent again. The new opportunity pulls the family deeper into the theater world.

Aunt Alma Lothian, a devoted admirer of Madden's past work, learns of his new part and is overjoyed by the return of his prestige. Her support boosts Madden's morale and gives Kathi renewed confidence in a family future. The excitement signals a favorable turning point.

Kathi hopes for a loving family with Robert, but fears passing on her lameness to children. She voices these concerns to Robert and Madden, revealing the vulnerability behind their ambitions. The conversation sets up a crucial choice about whether to stay or go to Hollywood.

Thomas is offered a main role in a production of King Lear, but he wavers at the idea of the hard work and potential relapse. The opportunity tests his commitment to sobriety and his ability to carry the production. His reluctance creates tension as the team counts on him.

Robert decides to delay a Hollywood job to help arrange the music for Madden's play. His sacrifice demonstrates loyalty and belief in Madden's comeback. The decision tightens the trio's plans and deepens their interdependence.

Robert visits the doctor who delivered Kathi and learns that her foot damage came from a fall caused by Madden dropping her as a baby. The doctor had lied to spare Madden’s guilt, and the truth lets Kathi accept Robert's proposal. The revelation reframes past events and enables new forgiveness.

Encouraged by the new understanding, Kathi accepts Robert's marriage proposal. She begins to imagine a life with him, while still cherishing her bond with Madden. The engagement marks a hopeful pivot toward their future.

Madden shows clear improvement during rehearsals, signaling a genuine comeback. The engaged couple decide to delay revealing plans to move to Hollywood until after opening night. This keeps the focus on the current revival while preserving family unity.

The city clerk calls to fix the wedding date for the next day, triggering a storm of nerves in Madden. He flees into a bender, convinced Kathi will desert him. The looming marriage becomes a spur for his worst impulses.

Madden arrives at the opening night drunk, adding to the already tense atmosphere. Kathi confronts him, revealing that his past actions caused her lameness, and their quarrel shatters their fragile balance. The night becomes a turning point for their relationships.

In the fallout, Kathi feels guilt about Hollywood and urges Robert to stay in New York. She begins to chart a life that centers on her father and her roots. The choice signals a shift away from immediate fame toward personal stability.

Madden overhears the tension and writes a letter urging Kathi to pursue her own life. He then goes to Alma's home and accepts her marriage proposal, choosing a new future instead of clinging to the past. The film closes with a sense of dignity and renewal for everyone.