Second Act

Second Act

Year: 2018

Runtime: 103 min

Language: English

Director: Peter Segal

DramaComedyRomance

Maya Vargas, a middle-aged woman working as an assistant manager at a discount store, desires a career change and a promotion. Feeling overlooked despite her experience, she takes a creative approach to her resume, demonstrating that practical skills and determination can be just as valuable as traditional qualifications. The film is a heartwarming comedy-drama about reinvention, proving it's never too late to pursue new opportunities and showcasing the value of life experience.

Warning: spoilers below!

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Timeline – Second Act (2018)

Trace every key event in Second Act (2018) 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

Turning 40

Maya Vargas is approaching her 40th birthday, reflecting on her life decisions and career. As she stands on the verge of a new decade, her expectations weigh heavily on her mind.

N/A Queens, New York
2

Job at Grocery Store

Maya has been working as an assistant manager at a local grocery store for 15 years. Despite her loyalty and innovative ideas, like the 'Monday Momz' program, she faces an uphill battle for recognition.

N/A Queens, New York
3

Promotion Heartbreak

Maya's hopes for a promotion are dashed when the position is awarded to Arthur, an external candidate. The disappointment stems from the fact that she was overlooked due to her lack of a college degree.

N/A Grocery Store
4

Birthday Reflections

During a surprise birthday party, Maya opens up about her unfulfilled dreams to her best friend Joan and her godson Dilly. She wishes for a more adventurous life, signifying her desire for change.

N/A Maya's Home
5

Job Interviews

Joan informs Maya that Dilly has arranged job interviews for her at the prestigious company Franklin and Clarke. Although hesitant, Maya decides to seize this unexpected opportunity.

N/A Queens, New York
6

Meeting Anderson Clarke

Maya meets Anderson Clarke, who is impressed by her resume filled with prestigious experiences. Despite lying about her background, Maya navigates the meeting with both enthusiasm and anxiety.

N/A Franklin and Clarke Office
7

Consulting Position Offered

After a candid critique of the company's products during her interview, Maya is offered a consulting position. This moment marks a significant turning point as she grapples with her fraudulent entry into the corporate world.

N/A Franklin and Clarke Office
8

Challenges in Corporate Life

As Maya adjusts to her new role, she faces personal and professional challenges, including a breakup with her boyfriend Trey. Conflicted about her advancement, she is pushed to confront her past.

N/A Franklin and Clarke Office
9

The Boat Crash

During a company retreat, Maya accidentally causes a boat crash, but Anderson laughs it off. This incident demonstrates the lighter side of her new life, even as she struggles to find her footing.

N/A Company Retreat
10

Zoe's Connection

Maya discovers that Zoe, Anderson's daughter, is actually her own child whom she gave up for adoption. This revelation creates a complex yet heartfelt relationship that unfolds throughout the story.

N/A Franklin and Clarke Office
11

Innovative Product Concept

Inspiration strikes Maya as she conceptualizes an innovative all-in-one beauty product. This drives her to excel in her role, showcasing her creativity and passion for the industry.

N/A Franklin and Clarke Office
12

Confession at Presentation

As the truth about her fabricated credentials looms, Maya decides to come clean during a critical presentation. This moment of honesty marks a crucial turning point in her professional journey.

N/A Franklin and Clarke Office
13

Maya's Resignation

Following her confession, Maya resigns from the company, causing rifts in her newly found relationships, especially with Zoe. This decision emphasizes the importance she places on honesty and integrity.

N/A Franklin and Clarke Office
14

A Year Later

One year later, Maya has successfully launched her own business from her old program, 'Monday Momz'. Her journey reflects personal growth and the establishment of her own family dynamics with Trey.

N/A Maya's New Business
15

Reconnecting with Zoe

Zoe, after completing her studies, returns home, leading to a moment of reconciliation with Maya. Their renewed bond leads them to take significant steps forward in their relationship during a heartfelt reunion.

N/A Maya's Home

Last Updated: October 27, 2024 at 17:19

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Second Act Summary

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Second Act Summary

Characters, Settings & Themes in Second Act

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Characters, Settings & Themes in Second Act

More About Second Act

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