Meet Bill

Meet Bill

Year: 2008

Runtime: 93 min

Language: English

Directors: Bernie Goldmann, Melisa Wallack

DramaComedy

In this offbeat drama, everyman Bill feels like a doorstop in his mundane life, stuck in a loveless marriage and a job that suffocates his soul. But when he befriends a charismatic young boy, Bill's fate takes an unexpected turn with the help of Lucy, a sassy lingerie salesgirl who helps him break free from his insecurities and discover his true potential.

Warning: spoilers below!

Haven’t seen Meet Bill yet? This summary contains major spoilers. Bookmark the page, watch the movie, and come back for the full breakdown. If you're ready, scroll on and relive the story!

Timeline – Meet Bill (2008)
Trace every key event in Meet Bill (2008) 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

Bill's Routine

Bill Anderson, a middle-aged man, struggles daily at his father-in-law's bank, feeling a profound lack of authority and respect. His quiet desperation is palpable as he resorts to a secret obsession with candy, consuming it in solitude both at home and at the office.

Father-in-law's bank
2

Mr. Jacoby's Ambition

Mr. Jacoby, influential in the community and Bill's father-in-law, considers running for mayor. This decision is pivotal as it not only affects his family but also intertwines their lives with community affairs.

3

The Doughnut Franchise

Yearning for financial independence, Bill plans to buy a doughnut franchise from the Whitmans. This endeavor symbolizes his desire to escape the shadow of his father-in-law's success and take control of his destiny.

4

Intervention at the Ceremony

During a family public donation ceremony, Bill's life changes when he protects a rebellious teenager, known as 'the Kid', from a stern principal. This act earns him the principal's recommendation to join a school mentoring program, setting off a chain of transformative events.

Public donation ceremony
5

Bill's Jealousy

Bill's relationship with Jess is strained by his jealousy over her friendship with the newscaster Chip Johnson. His paranoia culminates in installing a hidden camera, leading to the devastating revelation that Jess is cheating on him.

Bill and Jess's bedroom
6

Live Broadcast Incident

Consumed by rage after discovering Jess's affair, Bill impulsively crashes Chip's live broadcast, resulting in his arrest. This dramatic moment marks a low point in his life, showcasing his emotional turmoil and desperation.

Live news broadcast
7

Sargeant's Support

Bailed out by his successful older brother, Sargeant, Bill finds some relief in Sargeant's home. However, tensions rise between him and Jess as they argue about the betrayal and the footage captured by the hidden camera.

Sargeant's home
8

The Turning Point

While mentoring the Kid, Bill decides to reclaim his life and passion for swimming. With support from the Kid, he hatches a plan to win back Jess's affections, leading them on a journey rife with misunderstandings and jealousy.

9

Lucy Enters the Scene

Lucy, a flirtatious lingerie salesgirl, begins to flirt with Bill in front of Jess, intending to stir jealousy. The situation escalates when she joins Bill and the Kid on a visit to the doughnut franchise, masquerading as Jess.

Doughnut franchise
10

Life Alteration

In a quest for self-improvement, Bill begins to abandon his sweet addiction and commits to a healthier lifestyle through swimming. This physical transformation aids him in mentoring the Kid and attempting to rebuild his marriage.

11

Fireworks Incident

During a family event supporting Jacoby’s mayoral campaign, Bill attempts to procure fireworks that unwittingly trigger chaos. The ensuing events lead to further side effects, including a car crash and hospitalization.

Golf course picnic
12

Confrontation and Realization

After the car crash, Jess visits Bill at the hospital and learns about his profound unhappiness tied to their reliance on her family's wealth. This moment of confrontation lays the foundation for their reevaluation of their relationship.

Hospital
13

Transformation Begins

Determined to change, Bill undergoes a dramatic transformation including cutting his hair and revamping his wardrobe. This change symbolizes a new start for him, aligning with his quest for independence.

14

Resignation at the Bank

Bill surprises everyone by resigning from the bank, embracing his true self. This bold step represents not just a career shift but a significant personal reclaiming of agency and identity.

Bank
15

Bidding Farewell

As Bill prepares to say goodbye to the Kid at school, he expresses his hopes for their continued friendship by gifting him a token of joy–fireworks. This moment symbolizes Bill's newfound freedom and commitment to a brighter future.

School

Last Updated: November 19, 2024 at 20:17

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