Roommates

In 1963 Pittsburgh, Rocky Holzcek, a cantankerous Polish-American baker, defies relatives and adopts his young grandson Michael after the boy's parents pass away. They begin a life under one roof, sharing meals and long card games that reveal Rocky's stubborn but loving nature. This act seals a family vow: 'Family takes care of family.'

Rocky continues his habit of taking a long time to arrange his hand when they play cards, testing Michael's patience. The slow pace is comic and endearing, showing the generational clash between a stubborn granddad and his impulsive grandson. Their card games become a small ritual that anchors their evolving bond.

Two decades after the original adoption, Michael is a medical intern in Columbus, and Rocky is evicted from his apartment. Michael is forced to take in his still-spry grandfather, beginning a new phase where family care remains central. This moment shifts the family dynamic toward a shared life in the city.

In a college history class, Rocky explains that the 'S' in Harry S Truman's name actually stood for something, contradicting the professor. The moment showcases his blunt insistence on being heard and his willingness to educate others, even in casual settings. The scene adds color to Rocky's larger-than-life personality.

Rocky develops friendships with his Chinese college roommates, and they continue to play cards together. Those friendships show Rocky's capacity to bridge cultures while maintaining his signature humor. The dorm days reveal a more playful side of the baker he once was.

Michael and Beth marry and relocate to Pittsburgh so Michael can begin his medical residency. Rocky remains a steady, if stubborn, presence as he continues his baking at home. The new family unit begins to take shape in a city that will soon hold more memories.

An illness forces Rocky to move back to Pittsburgh to live with Michael and Beth. He initially struggles with the change but gradually warms to Beth as they share meals and card games. The house becomes a place where three generations adapt to each other.

Beth's integration into the household softens Rocky's rough edges, and they resume their cherished card games. The family settles into a new rhythm with Rocky imparting his stubborn wisdom. The house feels like a stable, if imperfect, sanctuary for them all.

Seven years pass and Rocky remains a steadfast presence as Michael builds a prominent medical career. Then Beth is killed in an automobile accident, abruptly changing everyone’s lives. Rocky steps in to support his grandson during the darkest moment yet.

Beth's mother seeks custody of the children, and Michael initially considers stepping aside. Rocky lectures him about their motto, reminding him that 'Family takes care of family.' The moment reignites their resolve to keep the family together.

Michael decides he cannot give up the children and declares his intent to raise them with Rocky's support. The two men form a united front as they bring the kids home and rebuild the family unit. The house becomes a sanctuary of caregiving for three generations.

In a hospital room, Rocky marks his 107th birthday while Michael and the grandchildren keep vigil. Michael finds a newspaper want ad for a Chinese bakery, a hopeful nod to Rocky's past life and college days. Rocky smiles, weakens, and then passes away, knowing his family is cared for.