Modern Problems

Modern Problems

Year: 1981

Runtime: 93 min

Language: English

Director: Ken Shapiro

Sci-FiFantasyComedy

Driven to the edge by the pressures of his job, air traffic controller Max experiences a bizarre accident that grants him telekinetic powers. Determined to win back his estranged girlfriend, Darcy, he uses his abilities to influence events and disrupt her budding relationships. However, their planned weekend getaway to a beach house unleashes a darker side within him, putting everything he cares about at risk and threatening to spiral out of control.

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Timeline – Modern Problems (1981)

Trace every key event in Modern Problems (1981) 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

Max's Routine as Air Traffic Controller

Max Fiedler, played by Chevy Chase, finds himself stuck in a monotonous routine working as an air traffic controller. His job in New York's Kennedy International Airport is marked by stress and dissatisfaction as he struggles with his personal life.

New York's Kennedy International Airport
2

Breakup with Darcy

Max's personal turmoil peaks as he grapples with the painful fallout from his breakup with his girlfriend, Darcy. Their relationship crumbled due to his jealousy and pessimistic outlook, leaving Max feeling lost and resentful.

3

Encountering Barry

Max's frustration mounts with each chance encounter with Barry, Darcy's new partner. Barry's self-absorbed nature highlights Max's insecurities and exacerbates his feelings of inadequacy.

4

Nuclear Waste Incident

One fateful evening, while at a nightclub in Lower Manhattan, a tanker truck accidentally spills nuclear waste onto Max's vehicle. This bizarre incident envelops him in a strange green light, marking the beginning of a significant transformation.

Lower Manhattan
5

Gaining Telekinetic Powers

The following morning, Max awakens to an unbelievable realization: he has developed telekinetic powers due to the radioactive contact. Initially, he struggles to harness this strange ability, but soon he uses it to sabotage Barry's attempts to win back Darcy.

6

Reconnecting with Darcy

As Max begins to embrace his powers, he experiences a boost in self-esteem. He actively works to win back Darcy's heart, showing her the improved version of himself and rekindling their connection.

7

Weekend Getaway Invitation

Max receives an invitation to a weekend getaway from Brian, an old friend who is now paraplegic. This trip promises a break from his chaotic life as he joins a gathering of friends at Brian's beach house.

Beach house
8

Meeting Mark Winslow

Attending the beach weekend, Max encounters Mark Winslow, a self-styled guru known for his arrogance. Winslow's skepticism about Max's telekinetic abilities begins to cast doubt on Max's newfound confidence.

Beach house
9

Dinner Party Dispute

During a dinner party at the beach house, tensions rise as Winslow publicly mocks Max's telekinetic claims. Humiliated, Max feels his hard-earned confidence begin to crumble under Winslow's sharp-tongued remarks.

Beach house
10

Rooftop Escape

Overwhelmed by his feelings of inadequacy, Max retreats to the rooftop to collect himself. As a thunderstorm mirrors his inner turmoil, he struggles to find clarity amidst emotional chaos.

Rooftop of Brian's house
11

Lightning Bolt and Powers Shift

In a surprising turn of events, a lightning bolt strikes Max while he is in a state of despair. Unbeknownst to him, this electrifying moment transfers his telekinetic powers to Dorita, the observant maid, altering the course of his life.

Rooftop of Brian's house
12

Dorita Gains Telekinetic Powers

Dorita, after receiving the telekinetic powers, begins to demonstrate unique abilities that astonish those around her. This sudden change creates a ripple effect, influencing the dynamics of Max's relationships.

13

Darcy's Understanding

As the chaos unfolds, Darcy witnesses Max's struggles and ultimately chooses to understand him better. Her willingness to forgive him for his past mistakes lays the groundwork for rebuilding their relationship.

14

Max's Newfound Belief

With Darcy's forgiveness reinforcing his self-worth, Max begins to believe in the authenticity of their love. This newfound hope sets him on a path of emotional recovery and deeper connections in his life.

Last Updated: November 19, 2024 at 21:04

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