Starting Over

Starting Over

Year: 1979

Runtime: 105 min

Language: Filipino

Director: Alan J. Pakula

ComedyRomance

Years after parting ways, Toni and Piolo are unexpectedly reunited, prompting them to confront their past and consider a future together. This heartwarming comedy-drama explores the challenges and possibilities of second chances in love, examining whether old feelings can be rekindled or if they have both truly moved on.

Warning: spoilers below!

Haven’t seen Starting Over 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 & Setting – Starting Over (1979)

Explore the full timeline and setting of Starting Over (1979). Follow every major event in chronological order and see how the environment shapes the story, characters, and dramatic tension.

Time period

The movie is set in a contemporary time frame that reflects modern challenges of relationships and personal growth. It highlights the struggles of navigating love and loss in an ever-changing urban landscape.

Location

New York City, Boston, Massachusetts

The movie takes place in two vibrant cities: New York City and Boston, Massachusetts. New York City is known for its bustling lifestyle, diversity, and endless opportunities, which serves as the backdrop for Phil's complicated relationship with his ex-wife. Boston offers a more intimate setting where Phil seeks solace and new beginnings among family and friends.

🏙️ City 🌳 Suburb

Last Updated: January 14, 2025 at 22:11

Main Characters – Starting Over (1979)

Meet the key characters of Starting Over (1979), with detailed profiles, motivations, and roles in the plot. Understand their emotional journeys and what they reveal about the film’s deeper themes.

Phil Potter (Burt Reynolds)

Phil Potter is a freelance magazine writer navigating the emotional fallout of his divorce. He struggles with feelings of loneliness and confusion as he attempts to rebuild his life while navigating new relationships.

✍️ Writer 💔 Heartbroken

Jessica (Candice Bergen)

Jessica is Phil's ex-wife who seeks independence as a singer-songwriter. Her desire for autonomy contrasts with Phil's longing for reconciliation, illustrating the complexities of love and personal aspirations.

🎤 Singer 🌟 Independent

Marilyn Holmberg (Jill Clayburgh)

Marilyn Holmberg is a nursery school teacher who becomes romantically involved with Phil. She embodies both vulnerability and strength, as she navigates her feelings towards Phil amidst his unresolved connections with his ex-wife.

👩‍🏫 Teacher 💞 Romantic

Mickey Potter (Charles Durning)

Mickey Potter, Phil's brother, is a supportive psychiatrist who encourages Phil to attend a support group. His guidance reflects the importance of family and friendship during challenging life transitions.

🧠 Psychiatrist 👫 Supportive

Last Updated: January 14, 2025 at 22:11

Major Themes – Starting Over (1979)

Explore the central themes of Starting Over (1979), from psychological, social, and emotional dimensions to philosophical messages. Understand what the film is really saying beneath the surface.

💔 Heartbreak

Heartbreak is a central theme as Phil grapples with the end of his marriage and his attempts to move on. The emotional turmoil reveals how past relationships can linger in present decisions, shaping one's future romantic endeavors.

💡 New Beginnings

The theme of new beginnings resonates throughout the film as Phil relocates to Boston to start fresh. It encapsulates the notion that endings can pave the way for new opportunities, friendships, and love.

👩‍❤️‍👨 Relationships

The movie explores the complexity of relationships, from Phil's dynamic with Jessica to his budding connection with Marilyn. It highlights the importance of honest communication and the challenge of finding closure in past loves while trying to embrace new ones.

Last Updated: January 14, 2025 at 22:11

Unlock the Full Story of Starting Over

Don't stop at just watching — explore Starting Over in full detail. From the complete plot summary and scene-by-scene timeline to character breakdowns, thematic analysis, and a deep dive into the ending — every page helps you truly understand what Starting Over is all about. Plus, discover what's next after the movie.

Starting Over Summary

Read a complete plot summary of Starting Over, including all key story points, character arcs, and turning points. This in-depth recap is ideal for understanding the narrative structure or reviewing what happened in the movie.

Starting Over Summary

Starting Over Timeline

Track the full timeline of Starting Over with every major event arranged chronologically. Perfect for decoding non-linear storytelling, flashbacks, or parallel narratives with a clear scene-by-scene breakdown.

Starting Over Timeline

More About Starting Over

Visit What's After the Movie to explore more about Starting Over: box office results, cast and crew info, production details, post-credit scenes, and external links — all in one place for movie fans and researchers.

More About Starting Over

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