The Lonely Guy

The Lonely Guy

Year: 1984

Runtime: 90 min

Language: English

Director: Arthur Hiller

Comedy

A greeting card writer named Larry Hubbard, played by Steve Martin, finds himself struggling to cope with a recent painful breakup. He navigates the challenges of loneliness and finds unexpected friendship with Warren, while also harboring an unrequited affection for Iris. When Larry's deeply personal memoir unexpectedly becomes a bestseller, he must then grapple with the complexities of newfound fame and ultimately discover the true essence of human connection.

Warning: spoilers below!

Haven’t seen The Lonely Guy yet? This summary contains major spoilers. Bookmark the page, watch the movie, and come back for the full breakdown. If you're ready, scroll on and relive the story!

Timeline – The Lonely Guy (1984)

Trace every key event in The Lonely Guy (1984) 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

Larry's Breakup

Larry Hubbard faces emotional turmoil after a sudden breakup with his girlfriend, Danielle. This pivotal moment forces him to embark on a journey of self-discovery, challenging his once-reclusive nature.

2

Meeting Warren

In his quest to navigate life post-breakup, Larry encounters Warren, another solitary figure grappling with existential questions. Their meeting sets the stage for an unexpected friendship that will prove vital in their respective journeys.

3

The Encounter with Iris

Larry's fortune begins to shift when he crosses paths with Iris, a woman who attracts lonely souls like him. Her intriguing presence offers Larry a chance at redemption, amid humorous misadventures that ensue between them.

4

Warren's Despair

As Warren's struggle deepens, he spirals into despair, indicating the severity of his loneliness. Larry, concerned for his friend, decides to intervene, drawing on the bond he has formed with Iris to bring comfort to Warren.

5

Larry's Literary Success

Utilizing his personal challenges as inspiration, Larry begins to write successful greeting cards that resonate with a broader audience. This unexpected triumph catapults him into the spotlight, bringing newfound attention and acclaim.

6

Tension with Iris

However, Larry's rise to fame strains his connection with Iris, who starts to feel overwhelmed by his success. She grapples with her self-worth, convinced that she does not deserve Larry's affection, leading her to distance herself.

7

The Lavish Cruise

In a desperate bid to reconnect with Iris, Larry invites her on a lavish cruise. However, he soon discovers that Iris has already found comfort in the arms of another man, Jack, shattering his hopes for reconciliation.

Cruise Ship
8

Contemplation at Queensboro Bridge

Heartbroken and despondent, Larry finds himself on the Queensboro Bridge, contemplating a leap into the unknown. This moment of crisis serves as a turning point, forcing him to confront his feelings for Iris and his place in the world.

Queensboro Bridge
9

Warren's Wisdom

Amidst his turmoil, Warren’s wise words resonate with Larry, emphasizing the importance of embracing life’s uncertainties. This reflection steers Larry away from despair and towards a new perspective on love and happiness.

10

Iris Falls

Just as Larry grapples with his thoughts, fate intervenes when Iris reappears but falls from the same bridge. In a moment of serendipity, Larry catches her, leading to a deeply poignant reunion between the two.

Queensboro Bridge
11

Double Date with Friends

In a newfound camaraderie, Larry, Iris, Warren, and Dr. Joyce Brothers embark on an enjoyable double date. This encounter reaffirms their friendships and the significance of shared experiences in navigating life's challenges.

12

Reflection on Fate

As the evening unfolds, Larry reflects on the unpredictable twists of fate that have led him back to Iris. This moment of realization drives home the idea that taking leaps of faith can lead to the most rewarding experiences.

Last Updated: November 21, 2024 at 10:02

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Narrative Summary

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The Lonely Guy Summary

Read a complete plot summary of The Lonely Guy, 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.

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Characters, Settings & Themes in The Lonely Guy

The Lonely Guy Spoiler-Free Summary

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The Lonely Guy Spoiler-Free Summary

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