My Favorite Year

In 1954, film enthusiast Benjy Stone embarks on a week that will change his life forever. This significant week is marked by his chance to meet his childhood idol, Alan Swann, a once-glorious film star known for his adventurous roles.

Benjy works as a junior comedy writer for the live variety show *Comedy Cavalcade*, which is aired from NBC's studios at 30 Rockefeller Plaza. The show, overseen by the extravagant Stan 'King' Kaiser, is a delightful mix of music, dance, and comedy.

Alan Swann arrives as a guest star on *Comedy Cavalcade*, but his drunken state raises concerns for the show's success. Kaiser is ready to kick him off, but Benjy intercedes, promising to keep Swann sober before his big performance.

As Benjy works closely with Swann, an unexpected bond forms between them, driven by their shared struggles. Supported by Swann’s chauffeur, Alfie, they open up about the challenges they face in their personal lives.

Benjy finds himself embarrassed by his family, including his mother and her husband, a former boxer. Meanwhile, Swann longs to reconnect with his estranged daughter, Tess, which adds emotional depth to their shared experiences.

As rehearsals progress, chaos erupts when Kaiser clashes with Karl Rojeck, a corrupt union boss unhappy with the show’s portrayal of his interests. This ignites a series of peculiar incidents that threaten the production.

Amidst the ongoing chaos, Benjy develops feelings for K.C. Downing, the charming assistant to the producer, Leo Silver. This infatuation adds another layer of complexity to Benjy's week as he navigates professional and personal challenges.

Swann becomes a mentor to Benjy, teaching him lessons about courage and persistence. However, Swann wrestles with his own inner troubles, primarily a fear of the upcoming live broadcast.

As the live show approaches, Benjy reveals to Swann that it will be broadcast live, causing Swann to panic. This confrontation brings out Benjy’s admiration for Swann, pushing him to remind the actor of his heroic past.

During the 'Boss Hijack' sketch, the situation becomes dire when Rojeck’s henchmen invade the backstage, attacking Kaiser. This moment transforms the sketch into a real fight for survival, blurring the lines between performance and reality.

As chaos unfolds, Swann seizes the moment, stepping onto the stage in his Musketeer costume to confront the attackers. His boldness turns a moment of turmoil into an unexpected display of bravery witnessed by the live audience.

After the confrontation, Benjy steps back into his role as the narrator, delivering an eloquent and heartfelt epilogue to the tumultuous events of the night. His reflections encapsulate the chaos and bravery that transpired.

In the aftermath of the live broadcast's success, Swann overcomes his fears and finally reaches out to his daughter. The following day, he experiences the joy of reconnecting with Tess, creating a long-awaited family reunion.