Management

Management

Year: 2009

Runtime: 94 min

Language: English

Director: Stephen Belber

ComedyRomance

A driven saleswoman named Sue finds herself staying at a small, unassuming motel. There, she develops a surprising romance with Mike, the motel's shy and somewhat awkward manager. As their relationship deepens, they both confront personal vulnerabilities and insecurities, embarking on a transformative journey that pushes them outside of their comfort zones and leads to unexpected discoveries about themselves and each other.

Warning: spoilers below!

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Timeline – Management (2009)

Trace every key event in Management (2009) with our detailed, chronological timeline. Perfect for unpacking nonlinear stories, spotting hidden connections, and understanding how each scene builds toward the film’s climax. Whether you're revisiting or decoding for the first time, this timeline gives you the full picture.

1

Mike's Lonely Life

Mike Flux, the night manager of his parents' motel, lives a solitary life, handling all the tasks by himself. Despite working at the family business, he feels isolated and yearns for connection with others.

Motel
2

Meeting Sue

Mike's life changes when he meets Sue, a guest at the motel, and develops a crush on her. Attempting to break the ice, Mike surprises her with a bottle of wine, but she finds his approach awkward and asks him to leave.

Motel
3

A Spark of Interest

Returning the next day with champagne, Mike manages to touch Sue's butt after complimenting her. This small moment stirs curiosity in Sue, particularly about Mike's unconventional pick-up lines.

Motel
4

Laundry Room Encounter

After spending a night apart, Sue returns to Mike for a secret encounter in the laundry room of the motel. This impulsive decision marks a significant shift in Mike's feelings for her.

Motel
5

Surprising Sue in Baltimore

Driven by his newfound feelings, Mike flies to Baltimore to surprise Sue at her home. Their time together includes a soccer game and a visit to a homeless shelter, highlighting Sue's caring nature.

Baltimore
6

Facing Hard Truths

The morning after Mike's stay in Baltimore, he confesses to Sue that he bought a one-way ticket and has no money. They spend quality time together, deepening their connection, but the reality of their lives hangs over them.

Baltimore
7

Mike's Mother's Illness

Mike's mother, Trish, falls seriously ill, prompting Mike and Sue to visit her. Trish encourages Mike to seek happiness, warning him that life is short, and that it’s important to pursue meaningful relationships.

Motel
8

A Life-Altering Decision

After Sue expresses doubts about a long-term future with Mike, Trish passes away. Stricken by grief, Mike resolves to take charge of his life and chase after Sue once more.

Motel
9

Journey to Aberdeen

Mike learns that Sue has reunited with her ex-boyfriend Jango, prompting him to travel to Aberdeen. Without money, he spends his nights in a local football field while looking for a job.

Aberdeen, WA
10

New Beginnings

Finding work at a Chinese restaurant, Mike forms a friendship with Al, the owner's son, who provides him with shelter in the basement. Together they navigate the complexity of Mike's feelings for Sue and her life with Jango.

Aberdeen, WA
11

Skydiving Surprise

In a bold move to win Sue back, Mike skydives into her pool as a surprise. However, this stunt backfires when Jango confronts him, resulting in a tense encounter with an air-soft gun.

Sue's Pool
12

A Night Out

After a night of dinner at Jango's mansion, Sue sneaks out to dance with Mike and Al, sparking a flirtation that rekindles their chemistry. However, the threat of Jango looms over their budding relationship.

Jango's Mansion
13

The Marriage News

The following day, Sue reveals that she and Jango are getting married that week, and she's pregnant. Torn and devastated, Mike reacts harshly, telling her to leave after all he sacrificed for her attention.

Aberdeen, WA
14

Finding Peace

In an attempt to move on, Mike spends four months in a Buddhist monastery, where he reflects on his past decisions. He learns that his heart is still attached to Sue and ultimately chooses to return to the motel.

Buddhist Monastery
15

A New Purpose

Back at the motel, which is now run by his father, Mike decides to turn it into a homeless shelter, fulfilling Sue's dream. After discovering that Sue left Jango, he rushes to find her, hoping to rebuild their relationship.

Motel
16

Reunion and Hopes

Upon finding Sue, Mike expresses his feelings, vowing to support her and her baby. They embrace, signaling a potential new beginning as they confront the future together.

Sue's Home

Last Updated: May 13, 2025 at 20:30

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Management Summary

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Management Summary

Characters, Settings & Themes in Management

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Characters, Settings & Themes in Management

More About Management

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More About Management

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