The Meddler

The Meddler

Year: 2016

Runtime: 100 min

Language: Spanish

Director: Lorene Scafaria

DramaComedyRomance

When widow Marnie Minervini (Susan Sarandon) follows her husband's wish by moving from New Jersey to Los Angeles, she becomes overzealous in her attempts to reconnect with her screenwriter daughter Lori (Rose Byrne). As boundaries are set and Marnie's meddling is met with resistance, she finds creative ways to spread joy and positivity, ultimately discovering a new sense of purpose in life.

Warning: spoilers below!

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Timeline – The Meddler (2016)
Trace every key event in The Meddler (2016) 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

Lori Moves to Los Angeles

Marnie's daughter, Lori, departs for Los Angeles to pursue a television screenwriting opportunity. This sudden move creates a distance between mother and daughter, deeply impacting Marnie who yearns for connection and purpose.

Los Angeles
2

Marnie Follows Lori

Unable to cope with her loneliness, Marnie decides to move to Los Angeles as well. She hopes that being closer to Lori will help both of them heal from their emotional struggles.

Los Angeles
3

Valentine's Day Dinner

On Valentine's Day, Marnie's well-meaning efforts to connect with Lori lead to an awkward dinner. The arrival of Lori's ex-boyfriend Jacob adds tension, leaving Lori feeling embarrassed and frustrated.

Valentine's Day Los Angeles
4

Therapy Session Insight

In an effort to understand Lori better, Marnie attends a therapy session with Lori's therapist. The session turns the spotlight on Marnie's unresolved grief, prompting her to confront her own emotional pain for the first time.

5

Marnie Meets Freddie

While shopping for a new mobile device, Marnie meets Freddie, a tech-savvy friend who becomes an important figure in her life. Their budding friendship provides Marnie with a sense of companionship that she desperately seeks.

6

Volunteering at the Hospital

Marnie decides to volunteer at a local hospital at Lori's encouragement. During her time there, she befriends a stroke victim and helps her reconnect with her estranged son, showcasing Marnie's nurturing side.

Hospital
7

Meeting Mark at the Baby Shower

At a baby shower for Emily, Marnie encounters Mark, the divorced father-in-law. Their deep conversation about loss fosters a connection, highlighting their mutual understanding of grief.

Baby Shower
8

Bonding with Jillian

Marnie volunteers to babysit for Jillian, a friend of Lori's, after learning about Jillian’s own loss of her mother. Marnie's maternal instincts kick in, and she steps up to help Jillian plan her wedding.

9

Unexpected Encounter with Zipper

After a casual meeting with Freddie's brother, Fredo, Marnie finds herself consuming marijuana accidentally. This leads to a fateful encounter with Zipper, a retired police officer, where they share stories of their past.

10

Discussion of Loss with Zipper

Zipper opens up about his estranged daughter, Lizzie, revealing the pain of divorce. Marnie finds comfort in this candid discussion, solidifying their developing friendship through shared experiences.

11

Return to New York City

Marnie travels back to New York City, intending to discuss the memorial for her husband with Lori. However, she realizes she isn't emotionally ready for these difficult conversations, leaving her feeling uncertain about her next steps.

New York City
12

Lori Seeks Marnie's Advice

As Lori navigates her pregnancy complexities, she turns to Marnie for advice. In a heartfelt exchange, they both confront their struggles while Marnie's focus on an ovulation test kit complicates the emotional depth of the conversation.

13

Marnie Lays Her Husband's Ashes to Rest

Determined to find closure, Marnie scatters her husband’s ashes in the ocean. This poignant moment marks a significant step in her healing journey, but is soon overshadowed by unexpected legal troubles.

Ocean
14

Zipper Supports Marnie

After Marnie's arrest following the scattering of ashes, Zipper intervenes to help her secure her release. Their relationship deepens as they agree to spend time together, seeking comfort in each other's company.

15

Marnie Adjusts to Her New Life

As time passes, Marnie embraces her life in Los Angeles. She leaves a warm voicemail for Lori, discussing her romantic endeavors with Zipper, signifying her growth and newfound joy in moving forward.

Los Angeles

Last Updated: November 21, 2024 at 09:58