What If (2014) Characters, Setting & Themes Explained

The movie is set primarily in Toronto, where the main characters live and interact in their daily lives. Dublin, Ireland becomes a significant location when Chantry travels there for work, creating a pivotal moment in the story. Taiwan appears later in the film, representing a new chapter for one of the characters as they pursue career opportunities.

• toronto
• dublin
• taiwan
• setting
• locations
• cities

The movie takes place in contemporary times, reflecting the modern dating landscape and career challenges faced by young adults today. The setting captures current attitudes toward relationships, work-life balance, and the process of finding one's path in life.

• contemporary
• time period
• modern
• era
• year 2014

The film explores the tension between friendship and romantic feelings, particularly through Wallace and Chantry's evolving relationship. It examines the complexities that arise when someone develops feelings for a person who is already in a committed relationship. The theme emphasizes that honesty and communication are essential for genuine connection, even when emotions are complicated.

• love
• relationships
• romance
• friendship feelings
• emotional conflict

Wallace's character arc centers on moving from a stagnant, unhappy life toward pursuing his passion for medicine and building meaningful relationships. His journey reflects the theme of personal growth, showing how facing difficult emotions and taking risks can lead to positive change. The film suggests that stepping outside one's comfort zone is necessary for genuine self-discovery.

• personal growth
• ambition
• career change
• self discovery
• development

Wallace is a socially awkward young man portrayed by Daniel Radcliffe who has withdrawn from his ambitions after experiencing a painful breakup. He works a miserable job and drifts through life until he forms an unexpected friendship with Chantry. Throughout the film, Wallace undergoes significant personal growth as he confronts his feelings and learns to pursue what truly matters to him.

• wallace
• daniel radcliffe
• main character
• protagonist

Chantry is a creative and independent animator portrayed by Zoe Kazan who lives a content but routine life. She finds herself at the center of a complicated emotional situation, torn between her long-term boyfriend Ben and her deepening connection with Wallace. Her journey represents self-discovery as she learns to recognize what genuinely makes her happy.

• chantry
• zoe kazan
• animator
• love interest
• female lead

Allan is Wallace's charismatic but somewhat reckless friend, played by Adam Driver. He serves as a catalyst throughout the story, often encouraging Wallace to take risks and step outside his comfort zone. Allan's light-hearted personality provides contrast to the more serious emotional undertones of the narrative.

• allan
• adam driver
• friend
• supporting character
• wingman

Ben is Chantry's long-term boyfriend, portrayed by Rafe Spall, who is deeply focused on his career. His demanding work schedule creates distance in his relationship with Chantry and raises questions about loyalty and priorities. His character illustrates how career demands can impact personal relationships.

• ben
• rafe spall
• boyfriend
• long distance
• career focus

The central relationship involves a love triangle between Wallace, Chantry, and Chantry's boyfriend Ben. Wallace and Chantry develop feelings for each other while maintaining their friendship, creating ongoing tension about whether to act on their emotions. The film examines whether friendship between opposite genders can survive unspoken romantic attraction.

• love triangle
• relationship
• couples
• will they wont they
• romantic tension

The film carries a bittersweet tone, blending Wallace's initial melancholy and stagnation with the hopeful possibility of new romance. The story balances sadness and optimism through its 'what if' theme, creating emotional weight without becoming heavy or dark. Humor throughout the narrative provides relief while still addressing genuine emotional stakes.

• tone
• bittersweet
• mood
• emotional
• happy ending
• romantic comedy