Take Me Home Tonight

The story begins in 1988, focusing on Matt Franklin, his twin sister Wendy, and their best friend Barry. They are at a music store, contemplating their futures and how to connect with Matt's crush, Tori Frederking.

After graduating from MIT, Matt finds himself working at a Suncoast Video store in a local shopping mall. While he is employed there, he struggles with uncertainty about his future and feels unfulfilled.

Tori walks into Matt's store, sparking an unexpected conversation. Matt, eager to impress, fabricates a story about working at Goldman Sachs, which leads Tori to invite him to a party.

Matt, Barry, and Wendy set off to attend the Labor Day weekend party hosted by Wendy's boyfriend Kyle. Their trip takes a turn when Barry impulsively steals a car from a dealership.

At the party, Kyle entertains guests with the dare to ride a hollow steel sphere called the 'ball'. The atmosphere is filled with excitement and risk as everyone watches the challenge unfold.

While at the party, Matt encounters Carlos, a former classmate who is indeed working at Goldman Sachs. This moment creates tension as Matt struggles to maintain his fabricated identity.

Barry's night takes a downturn when he discovers cocaine in the stolen car and gets involved in a dance battle. His reckless behavior sets the tone for a series of poor decisions throughout the evening.

As the night continues, Tori and Matt leave the party for a business soirée in Beverly Hills. During the drive, Tori expresses her disdain for her job and shares personal details with Matt.

Tension rises when Matt finally reveals the truth about his job to Tori, leading to disappointment and a confrontation. Tori feels misled and walks away, leaving Matt distressed.

After a series of misfortunes, including a car crash, Matt's father stops them and gives them a warning. He advises Matt to pursue a more ambitious career, emphasizing the importance of direction.

Returning to the party, Wendy awaits news about her graduate school acceptance. The moment becomes bittersweet when they discover she has been rejected, deepening her anxiety about the future.

Against all advice, Matt decides to ride the 'ball'. The situation escalates when the ball veers off course, causing chaos, crashing into multiple cars, and finally landing in a pool.

Amidst the chaos, Matt nearly drowns but manages to escape the ball's confines. In a daring moment, he seeks Tori's number, and despite the night's pandemonium, she gives it to him.

Witnessing Matt's reckless behavior, Wendy decides to end her relationship with Kyle. This moment signifies the emotional toll the night has taken on her and solidifies her need for change.

As dawn approaches, Matt holds onto Tori’s phone number, a glimmer of hope amidst the chaos. Mr. Franklin later discovers Matt's name tag from Suncoast Video, reminding him of his son's wild escapades.