The Half of It

The Half of It

Year: 2020

Runtime: 104 min

Language: English

Director: Alice Wu

DramaComedyRomance

A shy, introverted student finds himself unexpectedly entangled in the romantic lives of others. He secretly agrees to write letters for a popular athlete, who wants to win over a classmate. As the student navigates this unusual arrangement, he finds himself developing feelings while orchestrating a delicate dance of attraction and vulnerability, ultimately learning about love and acceptance in the process.

Warning: spoilers below!

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Timeline – The Half of It (2020)

Trace every key event in The Half of It (2020) 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

Ellie's Life in Squahamish

Ellie Chu is a friendless student living in the quiet town of Squahamish. She struggles to help her widowed father, Edwin, as she secretly crafts homework papers for other students to earn money.

Squahamish
2

Ellie's Talent Show Requirement

As part of her graduation requirements, Ellie is compelled to participate in her high school's talent show. This event serves as a turning point for her character and sets the stage for further developments.

3

Paul's Request for a Love Letter

Ellie meets Paul Munsky, an inarticulate football player, who requests her help in writing a love letter to Aster Flores, a girl he likes. Initially hesitant, Ellie later agrees due to financial pressures.

4

The Love Letter Correspondence Begins

Ellie starts writing letters to Aster, posing as Paul to facilitate her communication. This growing correspondence allows Ellie and Aster to bond over their shared interests while Aster remains unaware of the true identity of her correspondent.

5

Mural Collaboration

As their relationship develops, Ellie and Aster collaborate on a mural, trading painting duties to avoid meeting face-to-face. This artistic venture strengthens their emotional connection.

6

Mrs. Geselschap's Encouragement

Ellie's English teacher, Mrs. Geselschap, encourages her to apply to Grinnell College. Despite her abilities and potential, Ellie grapples with the idea of leaving her father and hometown.

7

Helping Paul Prepare for Aster

After attempting to set Paul up on a date with Aster, which goes awry, Ellie decides to help him prepare for a subsequent date. She teaches him about art and literature, focusing on what Aster likes.

8

Paul's Date Attempts

Paul's second date with Aster does not go as planned. Despite Ellie's attempts to text Aster pretending to be him, it leads to a heartfelt yet confusing moment that reveals feelings between the three.

9

Aster and Ellie's Day at the Hot Spring

After being impressed by Ellie's solo performance at the talent show, Aster invites her on an outing to a hot spring. There, they share their fears and dreams, deepening their bond substantially.

Hot Spring
10

Paul and Ellie's Father's Bonding Moment

Ellie's father, Edwin, and Paul begin to develop a friendship as they bond over cooking sausages together. This moment highlights the intersection of their lives and the support systems around Ellie.

11

Paul's Misunderstanding

A miscommunication leads to Paul trying to kiss Ellie, causing tension with Aster when she witnesses this. This moment stirs deeper emotions and complicates friendships among the three.

12

Trig's Proposal

As Trig proposes to Aster in church, Ellie and Paul interrupt the moment, revealing the underlying tensions. This public display challenges Aster’s choices and turns the spotlight on Ellie's feelings.

Church
13

Ellie's Apology to Aster

Before leaving for Grinnell, Ellie bravely apologizes to Aster. In a poignant exchange, Aster expresses possible feelings for Ellie, adding layers to their relationship and potential future.

14

Departure and Promise

As Ellie prepares to leave for college, she promises Aster that they will reconnect in two years. Their emotional parting solidifies their bond and aspirations.

Train Station
15

Paul's Farewell

At the train station, Paul sees Ellie off and humorously mimics a movie scene as he runs alongside the departing train. His gesture is filled with heartfelt affection for both Ellie and her father.

Train Station

Last Updated: November 15, 2024 at 17:00

Unlock the Full Story of The Half of It

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The Half of It Summary

Read a complete plot summary of The Half of It, 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.

The Half of It Summary

Characters, Settings & Themes in The Half of It

Discover the characters, locations, and core themes that shape The Half of It. Get insights into symbolic elements, setting significance, and deeper narrative meaning — ideal for thematic analysis and movie breakdowns.

Characters, Settings & Themes in The Half of It

The Half of It Ending Explained

What really happened at the end of The Half of It? This detailed ending explained page breaks down final scenes, hidden clues, and alternate interpretations with expert analysis and viewer theories.

The Half of It Ending Explained

More About The Half of It

Visit What's After the Movie to explore more about The Half of It: 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 The Half of It