Parenthood

Gil Buckman grapples with the challenges of being a father. Balancing his career as a sales executive in suburban St. Louis with the needs of his family, he faces self-doubt and fears of becoming the distant parent his own father was.

Gil discovers that his eldest son, Kevin, is struggling with emotional issues that warrant therapy according to the school psychologist. This revelation leads Gil to blame himself and question his parenting abilities, deepening his anxiety.

In the midst of his worries, Gil's wife, Karen, reveals that she is pregnant with their fourth child. This news adds to Gil's anxiety about his financial and emotional capacity to support his growing family.

Gil faces office politics and dishonest management at work, which further strains his mental health. He fears that he is becoming the very workaholic father he despised.

Towards the film's climax, Gil's father, Frank, seeks his son’s advice regarding Larry, Gil's wayward brother. This moment leads to an emotional conversation where Gil shares his self-doubts, prompting Frank to reassure him.

Determined to improve his relationship with his children, Gil begins to adopt a lighter attitude towards life's surprises. His efforts yield positive results as Kevin's emotional issues start to diminish.

When a hired cowboy fails to show for his children's birthday party, Gil steps up and dresses as a cowboy himself. This spontaneity delights his children and reinforces his commitment to being a present parent.

Gil's sister, Helen, confronts her struggles as a divorced mother. Her concern for her son Garry grows as she discovers he is hiding a mysterious paper bag, which she fears contains drugs.

The contents of Garry's paper bag are revealed to be porn, which signifies his entry into puberty and a normal phase of development. This revelation brings relief to Helen, who realizes her initial fears were misplaced.

Helen's daughter Julie begins a relationship with Tod, a slacker boyfriend, which stirs up concerns about their future. Despite her mother's worries, they decide to marry and start a family together.

In a pivotal moment, Tod helps bridge the gap with Garry by normalizing his obsession with girls and relationships. This bonding experience alleviates Garry's troubles and enhances his emotional well-being.

Susan, Gil's other sister, feels neglected due to her husband Nathan's fixation on their daughter Patty's development. Her feelings of isolation lead her to seek comfort in junk food and result in a temporary separation.

Nathan makes an effort to woo Susan back by serenading her during class, promising to change his ways. His heartfelt gesture rekindles their relationship, allowing Susan to return home.

Larry, the black sheep of the family, seeks to borrow money from their father, claiming it's for a business venture. However, it becomes evident that he has a gambling addiction, leading to familial distress.

The film culminates with the birth of a new generation as the Buckmans come together in the hospital. Gil and Karen welcome their fourth child, and past grievances soften as each family member grows in their role.