Solitary Man

Solitary Man

Year: 2010

Runtime: 90 min

Language: English

Directors: Brian Koppelman, David Levien

DramaComedy

Ben Kalmen is a successful car dealer whose life takes a dramatic turn, leading to a devastating downfall fueled by his own hubris and reckless decisions. Stripped of his lavish lifestyle, he's forced to adjust to a more modest existence and face the consequences of his past choices. While navigating this new reality, he unexpectedly takes Jordan’s daughter on a college tour in Boston, and the experience offers him a chance at redemption and a potential path towards rebuilding his life.

Warning: spoilers below!

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Timeline – Solitary Man (2010)

Trace every key event in Solitary Man (2010) 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

Ben's Medical Check-up

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.

Present Day New York
2

Ben's Downfall

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.

Six Years Later
3

Financial Struggles

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.

4

College Campus Encounter

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.

College Campus
5

Affair with Allyson

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.

College Campus
6

Consequence of Infidelity

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.

7

Family Conflict

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.

8

Job at the Diner

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.

Diner on Campus
9

Conflict with Jordan's Ex-Husband

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.

College Campus
10

Hospitalization

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.

Hospital
11

Reconciliation with Susan

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.

Hospital
12

Apology to Daniel

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.

13

Meeting Nancy

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.

Park Bench
14

Final Decision

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.

Last Updated: May 13, 2025 at 20:30

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Solitary Man Summary

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Solitary Man Summary

Characters, Settings & Themes in Solitary Man

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Characters, Settings & Themes in Solitary Man

More About Solitary Man

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