Scent of a Woman

Charlie Simms, a student from Oregon, earns a Young America merit scholarship to attend the prestigious Baird prep school in New England. Unlike his wealthy peers, Charlie struggles financially as his parents run a grocery store back home.

To afford a flight home for Christmas, Charlie accepts a temporary job looking after Lieutenant Colonel Frank Slade over the Thanksgiving weekend. Although Frank is a highly decorated Vietnam War veteran, he has fallen into alcoholism and struggles with being blind.

Frank Slade lives with his niece, Karen, and her husband, Donny, who are leaving for the weekend, prompting the need for a caretaker. Frank's previous stay in an old age home was unsatisfactory, leading Karen to take him in despite his difficult demeanor.

Charlie and fellow student George Willis Jr. witness a group of classmates executing a prank on headmaster Trask, ruining his new Jaguar with a paint bag. The prank highlights the mischievous culture at Baird and foreshadows trouble for Charlie.

After the prank, headmaster Trask pressures Charlie and George to identify the pranksters, threatening to withdraw a recommendation for Charlie to Harvard University if he doesn't comply. This creates internal conflict for Charlie as he values loyalty to his peers.

Unexpectedly, Frank whisks Charlie away to New York City, where they stay in luxury at the Waldorf-Astoria. During their adventurous dinner at the Plaza Hotel, Frank discusses his desires, hinting at a dark intention to end his life.

Frank's surprise visit to his brother's home for Thanksgiving dinner leads to tension and conflict. The evening ends in acrimony as Frank’s complex relationship with his family is revealed, stirring deeper feelings of regret and anger.

In a surprising display at a restaurant, Frank dances a passionate tango with Donna, a beautiful woman waiting for her date. The dance signifies a moment of joy and appreciation for life despite Frank's troubled state.

The following day, in a moment of desperation, Frank recklessly walks into oncoming traffic, nearly leading to disaster. This act symbolizes his internal struggles and desire to escape the pain of his existence.

Upon returning to the hotel, Frank dons his military dress uniform and prepares to take his life with his service pistol. A timely intervention from Charlie leads to a profound moment, where Charlie helps Frank confront his despair.

After their intense weekend, Charlie and Frank return to New England, where the fallout from the prank awaits. Charlie faces the consequences of his actions as the disciplinary committee prepares to meet.

At the school inquiry, Charlie is conflicted about whether to protect his peers or seek his future. Despite pressure from the committee, Frank unexpectedly shows up to support Charlie during the tense hearing.

During the inquiry, Frank delivers an impassioned speech defending Charlie's integrity, insisting that true leadership is about standing up for one’s beliefs. The speech sways the committee's decision, ultimately leading to Charlie avoiding expulsion.

The disciplinary committee's decision results in Charlie being excused from punishment, while the instigators of the prank face probation. Amidst the applause from students, Charlie's moral fortitude is recognized and celebrated.

As they leave the school, Charlie and Frank share a moment of reflection. Frank greets his niece's children warmly, suggesting a renewed hope, while Charlie’s journey towards maturity continues.