Tadpole

Tadpole

Year: 2002

Runtime: 78 min

Language: English

Director: Gary Winick

DramaComedyRomance

In this poignant comedy of errors, Oscar Grubman, a charming 15-year-old, finds himself wooed by beautiful women who mistake his youthful innocence for sophistication. As he navigates the complexities of adolescence and romance, Oscar's naivety and idealism are put to the test in a heartwarming exploration of love, identity, and growing up.

Warning: spoilers below!

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Timeline – Tadpole (2002)
Trace every key event in Tadpole (2002) 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

Oscar's Independence

Oscar Grubman, a remarkably mature 15-year-old, embarks on his journey home from school just in time for Thanksgiving. His intellectual pursuits and unique perspective on life set him apart from his peers, as he navigates the superficiality around him.

2

Miranda's Interest

At school, Miranda Spear, an attractive classmate, shows interest in Oscar, which he tactfully declines. Instead of pursuing a superficial relationship, Oscar confides in his friend Charlie about his deeper feelings for a more mature woman—his stepmother.

School
3

Thanksgiving Family Gathering

Oscar arrives at his home, where his father Stanley and stepmother Eve are preparing for a Thanksgiving party. During the evening, Stanley tries to introduce Oscar to a girl his age, but Oscar is fixated on Eve, the object of his affection.

Thanksgiving Evening Grubman Home
4

Oscar's Frustration

Feeling rejected after his attempts to express his feelings to Eve, Oscar sneaks out to a bar armed with a fake ID. At the bar, he meets Diane Lodder, Eve's best friend, and they embark on a surprising romantic encounter.

Bar
5

Morning After Awkwardness

The following morning, an awkward confrontation occurs when Diane's boyfriend Phil arrives. This unexpected encounter adds tension to Oscar's already complicated situation and forces him to navigate the fallout of his night.

Diane's Apartment
6

Oscar's Surprise Lunch

Determined to make amends, Oscar plans a surprise lunch for Eve, presenting a unique discussion about love and the symbolism of a liver versus a heart. His hopes for a meaningful conversation are soon disrupted by a phone call from Stanley.

Lunch Room
7

Tension at Dinner

During dinner, Diane's playful flirtation with Oscar complicates matters. Their hidden relationship comes to light when Diane openly confesses to both Stanley and Eve, leading to a heated confrontation.

Dining Room
8

Competitive Tennis Match

Following the dinner drama, Oscar and Eve engage in a competitive game of tennis that quickly turns into a battle of words. The game escalates when Oscar inadvertently confesses his true feelings through an accident, revealing the underlying tension.

Tennis Court
9

The Pivotal Kiss

In a moment of heated emotion, Eve begins to understand Oscar's deep feelings for her, culminating in a passionate kiss. This unexpected turn marks a significant shift in their relationship, leaving both flustered and confused.

10

Saying Goodbye

As Thanksgiving break concludes, Eve and Stanley accompany Oscar to the train station. They share light banter about his 'liver,' revealing the playful yet strained dynamics in their family as they prepare to part ways.

Train Station
11

Reflections on Love

On the train, Oscar reunites with Charlie and crosses paths with Miranda again. Reflected upon through conversations referencing Voltaire, Oscar begins to realize that his infatuation with Eve may not have held as much significance as he previously believed.

Train
12

A Change in Perspective

As the train departs, Oscar smiles and reflects on his journey, subtly acknowledging his growth in understanding love and maturity. The experiences from Thanksgiving have shifted his perspective, indicating that he has moved on from his past obsessions.

Train

Last Updated: November 02, 2024 at 13:54

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