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!

Haven’t seen So B. It yet? This summary contains major spoilers. Bookmark the page, watch the movie, and come back for the full breakdown. If you're ready, scroll on and relive the story!

Timeline – So B. It (2017)
Trace every key event in So B. It (2017) 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

Introduction at the Sheriff's Office

Heidi sits in the Sheriff's office with a jar of jelly beans, feeling trapped and wishing for freedom. Sheriff Roy Franklin engages her in a coin-guessing game, which reveals that someone named Bernie has called for her, indicating she won't be booked as a runaway.

Day Sheriff's Office
2

Ticket Purchase at the Bus Terminal

At a bus terminal in Reno, Heidi encounters a punked-out girl and persuades her to buy a bus ticket. This ticket is crucial for Heidi's escape, as she is traveling to Liberty, New York, with her collection of silver dollars.

Bus Terminal, Reno, Nevada
3

Helping Alice Wilinsky

Heidi offers assistance to Alice Wilinsky, an elderly woman struggling with her groceries, so she can travel discreetly. Despite the bus driver's suspicion, Heidi boards the bus, hoping to continue her journey without drawing attention.

Bus
4

Flashback to Life with Bernie

Heidi recalls moments with Bernie at home, where they navigate her mother's mental disabilities and create lesson plans. Their relationship is highlighted, showcasing Bernie's love for Heidi and their day-to-day challenges.

Bernie's Home
5

Practicing Public Outing

Heidi, Mama, and Bernie practice going to the bus stop in their home to confront Bernie's agoraphobia. This exercise reveals the struggles they face as Heidi attempts to help her family overcome their fears.

Bernie's Home
6

The List of Words

As Heidi remains curious about her mother's condition, she keeps a list of words which includes 'soof.' This symbolizes her desire to understand her mother's past and the frustrations that arise from it.

Bernie's Home
7

Storm and Communication Breakdown

Amidst a storm back home, Heidi tries to call her mother but the connection fails. As Bernie's anxiety rises, Heidi realizes she must venture out despite the dangers to protect her family.

Different Bus Station
8

Heidi's Journey with Alice Continues

Again on the bus with Alice, Heidi struggles with the lies she has created about her family. Ultimately, her deception is uncovered, resulting in her emotional isolation and pushing her further into solitude.

Bus
9

Arrival at Hilltop Home

Upon reaching Hilltop Home, Heidi is hopeful but quickly encounters hostility from Thurman Hill. When she learns about her mother’s past and the circumstances surrounding her family, her world begins to unravel.

Hilltop Home
10

Bernie's Desperation

Meanwhile, back at home, Bernie struggles to calm Mama, who is scared and unwell. This parallel struggle signifies the urgency of Heidi’s quest for identity and family.

Bernie's Home
11

Revelation of Family History

Heidi learns from Mr. Hill about her mother's true name, Sophia Demuth, and the family dynamics that led to her upbringing. This shocking revelation significantly impacts her understanding of her identity.

Hilltop Home
12

Mama's Passing

As Heidi learns more about her past, Bernie faces a heartbreaking moment as Mama passes away. This loss deeply affects Heidi, creating a gap in her life that she struggles to fill.

Bernie's Home
13

Burial and Reflection

At Mama's burial, Heidi reflects on the significance of 'soof' and the love tied to that name. This moment brings a sense of closure as she begins to understand her family's legacy.

Cemetery
14

Making a New List

In her grief, Heidi starts a new list titled 'THINGS I'LL MISS ABOUT MAMA,' with her only entry being 'EVERYTHING.' This act symbolizes her processing of loss and the deep bond they shared.

Hilltop Home
15

Returning Home

Finally, after reflecting on her experiences, Heidi returns home where she finds a transformed Bernie who can now leave the house. This marks a new chapter in both their lives as they rebuild their relationship.

Bernie's Home

Last Updated: May 12, 2025 at 07:04

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