Solitary Man

The film begins with Ben Kalmen attending his annual medical check-up at the age of 54. His doctor reveals an irregularity in his EKG, recommending further heart tests to assess the situation more thoroughly.

Fast forward six years, Ben's life has taken a drastic downturn. He is now on oral medications for his heart but has neglected to follow up with the necessary tests, leading to a self-destructive lifestyle characterized by lies, affairs, and poor business choices.

Ben finds himself in financial ruin, having borrowed money from his daughter, Susan. He struggles to cope with his declining status and continues to avoid confronting his age and health issues.

Accompanying his girlfriend's daughter, Jordan Karsch, to a college interview, Ben meets an impressionable student named Daniel. Their interaction leads Ben to reflect on his past and offer unsolicited life advice.

Ben engages in a fleeting romantic encounter with Allyson, the daughter of his girlfriend. However, Allyson soon dismisses their interaction as a mere experiment, leaving Ben frustrated and longing for more.

Allyson reveals the affair to her mother, Jordan, leading to the dissolution of Ben's relationship with her. As a consequence, he loses financial support for opening a new auto dealership, further compounding his troubles.

In a painful confrontation, Susan tells Ben he is no longer welcome in her family's life due to his inconsistency and failure as a grandfather. She is particularly hurt by his affair with the mother of a friend.

Desperate for income, Ben seeks help from his college friend, Jimmy Marino, who offers him a job at his diner on the college campus. This marks a new chapter of humiliation and struggle for Ben.

While hanging around the college, Ben makes a crude advance toward Daniel's girlfriend, Maureen. This reckless act leads to a violent confrontation with an ex-police officer sent by Jordan's ex-husband.

After being beaten up, Ben collapses and is admitted to the hospital, where he must face the repercussions of his life choices. He begins to reflect on his situation and his estranged relationships.

During his hospital stay, Ben experiences a touching moment of reconciliation when Susan checks in on him. Their interaction brings a sliver of hope for mending their strained relationship.

Once he leaves the hospital against medical advice, Ben seeks out Daniel to apologize for crossing boundaries. This moment highlights Ben's desire to make amends and regain a sense of integrity.

Ben finds Nancy sitting on a bench, a location that holds significance from their past. He shares his struggles with her, leading to a heartfelt conversation about aging, regret, and the nature of their relationship.

As the film concludes, Ben faces a pivotal choice while Nancy waits in the car. He is at a crossroads, torn between rekindling a connection with her or pursuing a new path represented by a passing young woman.