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Year: 1995
Runtime: 95 min
Language: English
Director: Harold Ramis
In this offbeat comedy-drama, Stuart Smalley, a well-meaning but quirky therapist, embarks on a mission to rescue his family from the grip of addiction and codependency. With his signature self-help mantra "I'm good enough," Stuart confronts his loved ones' demons in a heartwarming and hilarious quest for redemption.
Warning: spoilers below!
Haven’t seen Stuart Saves His Family 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!
Stuart Smalley hosts a charming program on public access television, where he shares uplifting thoughts and affirmations. To make a living, he works as a waiter, but his commitment to a healthier lifestyle starts to complicate his day-to-day responsibilities. Always wearing a smile and eager to spread positivity, he often finds himself giving unsolicited advice to customers. As the narrative unfolds, we see him joking around about life alongside his wonderful friend, Julia, who is not only stunning but also highly successful. Though their bond isn’t romantic, she plays a significant role in supporting Stuart throughout his challenges.
Unfortunately, his boss, Harris Yulin, treats him poorly, relegating him to late-night shifts and sparking frustration among his fans, though this information remains obscure for some time. Compounding his troubles, Stuart faces the heart-wrenching loss of his beloved aunt, necessitating his return home for her funeral. There, he must navigate family disputes regarding burial arrangements, particularly with a demanding cousin who insists on using the family plot reserved for his aunt, even showing up with law enforcement when his requests are ignored. Additionally, complications arise with the family home, which has encroached on land owned by a cantankerous old man who now seeks financial restitution, pushing Stuart into a moral quandary about potentially lying in court.
Despite these hurdles, Stuart’s show gains immense popularity, catching the attention of a cable network eager to produce twenty new episodes. The filming process, however, is marred by Stuart’s less-than-legal tactics and the unfortunate firing of a receptionist who starred in a memorable episode.
On top of it all, Stuart grapples with his father’s long-standing alcohol addiction, prompting him to confront the reality of their relationship at a crucial juncture. As Stuart seeks to balance his personal growth while managing the complexities of his life, he must determine whether his intrinsic goodness can withstand the pressures mounting around him.
Last Updated: October 25, 2024 at 10:06
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