The Hudsucker Proxy

The Hudsucker Proxy

Year: 1994

Runtime: 111 min

Language: English

Directors: Ethan Coen, Joel Coen

DramaFantasyComedyRomance

A scheming executive orchestrates a plan to manipulate the stock market and take control of a manufacturing company. His carefully laid plans are thrown into disarray when an unexpectedly innovative invention from a naive employee dramatically increases the company’s value. A determined journalist investigates the unfolding events, uncovering a web of secrets and threatening to reveal the corporation’s questionable practices as the truth comes to light.

Warning: spoilers below!

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Timeline – The Hudsucker Proxy (1994)

Trace every key event in The Hudsucker Proxy (1994) 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

Norville Barnes Arrives in NYC

In December 1958, Norville Barnes arrives in New York City, filled with ambition to make a name for himself in the competitive corporate world. However, his dreams are quickly dashed as he finds himself relegated to the role of a mailroom clerk at Hudsucker Industries.

December 1958 New York City
2

Waring Hudsucker's Demise

A shocking turn of events occurs when Waring Hudsucker, the company's founder, takes his own life during a tense meeting. His sudden death sends shockwaves through the corporation and leaves a power vacuum that various board members are eager to fill.

Hudsucker Industries
3

Sidney Mussburger Takes Control

In the wake of Hudsucker's death, cunning board member Sidney Mussburger seizes the opportunity for his own gain. He begins to manipulate the company's direction, setting the stage for a corporate power play that will have lasting implications for Hudsucker Industries.

4

Norville's Blue Letter Delivery

While struggling with his mailroom duties, Norville is tasked with delivering a 'Blue Letter' to Mussburger. Instead of complying, he showcases a simple drawing for kids, which unexpectedly catches Mussburger's attention and leads to an unusual appointment.

5

Norville Becomes a Figurehead

Underestimating Norville, Mussburger promotes him to a figurehead position in the company. Norville's new status gains him attention and the chance to prove himself, but he remains unaware of the strategic moves being made behind the scenes.

6

Amy Archer Investigates

Determined to uncover the truth behind Norville's rise, journalist Amy Archer goes undercover as his secretary. Through her observations, she begins to piece together Mussburger's manipulative schemes while developing a complicated relationship with Norville.

7

Norville's Hula Hoop Success

Norville's simple invention, the hula hoop, unexpectedly becomes a massive hit, catapulting him into fame and fortune. However, as he revels in his newfound success, his modesty starts to transform into arrogance, straining his relationship with Amy.

8

Buzz's Invention and Fallout

Buzz, the cheerful elevator operator, introduces a new invention called the 'Buzz-sucker,' a playful bendy straw. However, Norville's disdain for creativity leads him to terminate Buzz, further isolating him as he becomes increasingly consumed by his ego.

9

Aloysius Reveals Amy's Identity

During a critical moment, Aloysius, a humble janitor, inadvertently exposes Amy's true identity to Mussburger. Seizing this opportunity, Mussburger convinces the board of Norville's incompetence, leading to fears that he may be declared unfit for leadership.

10

Norville's Despair

As New Year's Eve approaches, Norville finds himself overwhelmed and despondent, drowning his sorrows in a beatnik café. His emotional breakdown culminates in a confrontation with Buzz, leading him to escape to the rooftop of the Hudsucker skyscraper.

New Year's Eve Hudsucker Skyscraper
11

The Rooftop Crisis

On the rooftop, as the clock strikes midnight, Norville finds himself on the edge, about to jump. Luckily, he's saved by Moses, who possesses the ability to freeze time, allowing a moment of reflection amid the chaos.

Midnight Hudsucker Skyscraper
12

Waring Hudsucker's Spirit

In a surreal encounter, the spirit of Waring Hudsucker appears before Norville, guiding him to discover the 'Blue Letter' from his pocket. This letter reveals Waring's true intentions for his company, providing Norville with the clarity he needs to forge ahead.

13

Moses Confronts Aloysius

As tension continues in the inner workings of the clock, Moses stands up against Aloysius, ultimately triumphing in a critical showdown. Their confrontation clears the way for Norville's return to focus and purpose.

14

Norville Returns to Ground Level

After his spiritual encounter with Waring and the resolution of the rooftop crisis, Norville safely returns to the ground level. There, he reconciles with Amy, establishing a new understanding of their relationship amidst the ongoing corporate turmoil.

15

Mussburger's Downfall

In the months following, Mussburger's plans unravel as the consequences of his manipulations come to light, diminishing his influence in the company. Meanwhile, Norville finds joy in innovating a new product—a frisbee, delighting children around the world and sealing his fate as a beloved figure.

Last Updated: November 22, 2024 at 10:40

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The Hudsucker Proxy Summary

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The Hudsucker Proxy Summary

Characters, Settings & Themes in The Hudsucker Proxy

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Characters, Settings & Themes in The Hudsucker Proxy

More About The Hudsucker Proxy

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