So B. It

So B. It

Year: 2017

Runtime: 98 min

Language: English

Director: Stephen Gyllenhaal

Drama

In this poignant drama, 12-year-old Heidi finds solace in her simple life with her loving but developmentally disabled mother, sheltered by their neighbor Bernadette's kindness. But when her mom suddenly expands her vocabulary with the enigmatic phrase "so B. it," Heidi embarks on a transformative solo odyssey across America, navigating unexpected truths and discovering her own identity.

Warning: spoilers below!

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Timeline & Setting – So B. It (2017)
Explore the full timeline and setting of So B. It (2017). Follow every major event in chronological order and see how the environment shapes the story, characters, and dramatic tension.

Time period

Contemporary

The events unfold in a modern setting where societal norms and relationships are explored emotionally. The film addresses themes of familial connections and personal histories in a time when such discussions are becoming increasingly relevant. It depicts a contemporary landscape that resonates with today's issues of identity and belonging.

Location

Reno, Nevada, Liberty, New York

The movie takes place in Reno, Nevada, a city known for its casinos and vibrant nightlife, which serves as a backdrop for Heidi's escapade. She then travels to Liberty, New York, a quaint setting that represents her search for family and truth. Both locations reflect Heidi's journey from uncertainty to a deeper understanding of her roots.

🚌 Travel 🏙️ City 🏡 Home

Last Updated: May 04, 2025 at 18:45

Main Characters – So B. It (2017)
Meet the key characters of So B. It (2017), with detailed profiles, motivations, and roles in the plot. Understand their emotional journeys and what they reveal about the film’s deeper themes.

Heidi

Heidi is a determined and resourceful young girl on a quest to find out more about her mother and her past. Her character embodies resilience, curiosity, and the innate desire to belong. Throughout her journey, she faces various challenges that shape her understanding of family and identity.

👧 Young 🌟 Determined 🤔 Curious

Bernadette (Bernie)

Bernie is a loving but overprotective guardian who suffers from agoraphobia, which complicates her relationship with Heidi. Her character illustrates the struggles of motherhood, especially in challenging circumstances. Her deep care for Heidi contrasts with her fears, leading to significant growth in both characters.

👩‍👧 Motherly 😔 Protective 💪 Resilient

Alice Wilinsky

Alice is an elderly woman who becomes a companion to Heidi during her travels. She represents wisdom and the complexities of family life, sharing her own stories with Heidi. Despite her quirky nature, Alice provides a sense of comfort and connection.

👵 Elderly 🧓 Wise 🤗 Caring

Roy Franklin

Roy is the sheriff who shows kindness toward Heidi, reflecting the theme of community support. He unintentionally becomes a father figure during her journey, embodying compassion in the face of challenging circumstances. His relationship with Heidi is pivotal in her understanding of family.

👮‍♂️ Officer 🤝 Supportive 🏠 Family-like

Thurman Hil

Thurman is a representative of the complex adult world that Heidi seeks to understand. His cold persona contrasts sharply with Heidi’s innocence, serving to highlight the challenges she faces in her quest for identity. He plays a crucial role in revealing the truth about Heidi's family.

🧑‍💼 Authority ❄️ Cold 🗝️ Truth-Revealer

Last Updated: May 04, 2025 at 18:45

Major Themes – So B. It (2017)
Explore the central themes of So B. It (2017), from psychological, social, and emotional dimensions to philosophical messages. Understand what the film is really saying beneath the surface.

🧠 Identity

The pursuit of identity is a central theme as Heidi seeks to uncover the truth about her family and her mother's past. This journey highlights the importance of understanding one's roots and the impact of family on personal development. Through her exploration, Heidi learns to navigate the complexities of her own identity.

💔 Loss

Loss permeates the story, particularly through Heidi's relationship with her mentally ill mother and her eventual passing. The film captures the profound grief and healing involved in losing a loved one, emphasizing the emotional weight of family bonds. Heidi's journey ultimately leads to a poignant reflection on love and remembrance.

🏘️ Family

Family plays a pivotal role, depicted both as a source of comfort and confusion. Heidi's adventures reveal the complexities of familial ties and the longing for connection. The film explores how family can take many forms and how relationships evolve, especially in the wake of loss and discovery.

Last Updated: May 04, 2025 at 18:45

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