The Next Best Thing

The Next Best Thing

Year: 2000

Runtime: 108 min

Language: English

Director: John Schlesinger

Budget: $25M

ComedyRomance

After experiencing heartbreak, lifelong friends Abbie and Robert find solace in each other's company, leading to an unexpected and profound connection. They embark on a journey into parenthood, facing the challenges and joys of raising a child while navigating the complexities of a same-sex relationship and confronting societal expectations. Their bond deepens as they learn to support each other through the unpredictable path ahead.

Warning: spoilers below!

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Timeline – The Next Best Thing (2000)

Trace every key event in The Next Best Thing (2000) 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

Abbie's Yoga Class

The film introduces Abbie Reynolds, a yoga instructor based in the bustling city of New York. She is passionate about her work and enjoys a fulfilling life as a single woman. Her world revolves around her career, yoga classes, and her close friendship with Robert.

New York City
2

Unexpected Pregnancy

Abbie’s life takes an unexpected turn when she discovers that she is pregnant. This news shocks her, as it changes her dynamics with those around her, especially with Robert, her best friend. The pregnancy presents new challenges that she must face.

New York City
3

Decision to Raise the Child with Robert

After careful consideration, Abbie decides that she will raise the child alongside Robert. Their deep bond of friendship gives her the confidence that he will support her through this new journey. Together, they contemplate how they will navigate the challenges of parenthood.

New York City
4

Abbie's New Relationship with Ben

As Abbie prepares for motherhood, she begins a romantic relationship with Ben. This new relationship adds complexity to her life, as she seeks balance between her feelings for Ben and her longstanding friendship with Robert. The emotional stakes get higher as her relationships evolve.

New York City
5

Robert's Feelings of Loneliness

With Abbie becoming more entwined in her relationship with Ben, Robert starts to feel isolated. His once close connection with Abbie begins to shift, leaving him grappling with feelings of jealousy and loneliness. He questions his place in Abbie's life as she embraces her new family.

New York City
6

Conflict of Affection

Robert's emotional turmoil grows as he wrestles with his feelings for Abbie. Conflicted between friendship and love, he feels sidelined as Abbie's bond with Ben deepens. This conflict forces him to confront his own desires and his fears of being a 'second choice'.

New York City
7

Abbie's Struggles as a New Mother

As she embraces motherhood, Abbie finds herself juggling her responsibilities while maintaining her connection with Robert. She faces the challenge of creating a traditional family unit with Ben while trying to keep her friendship with Robert intact. Abbie wrestles with her dual role as a mother and a friend.

New York City
8

Robert Questions His Role

Engulfed in confusion, Robert starts doubting if his love for Abbie will ever be reciprocated in the way he hopes. His inner dialogue reveals his struggle with self-identity and the societal expectations tied to his feelings. He searches for answers about where he fits into Abbie's new family dynamic.

New York City
9

Abbie's Dilemma

Abbie finds herself in a constant emotional tug-of-war between her responsibilities to her child and her desire for a conventional relationship with Ben. She values her longstanding bond with Robert, but her emerging family dynamics complicate her feelings. The pressure to conform to what she believes is an ideal family weighs heavily on her.

New York City
10

Confrontation of Feelings

The tensions between Abbie and Robert reach a boiling point as they confront their feelings for one another. This pivotal moment forces both characters to articulate their desires and needs. It becomes clear that their friendship may be irreversibly changed as they navigate these deep emotional waters.

New York City
11

Resolution of Emotions

By the conclusion of the film, Abbie and Robert come to terms with their emotions and the complexities of their relationship. They realize that their bond has evolved and that they must define their relationship in the context of Abbie's new life. Acceptance and understanding become the new foundation of their friendship.

New York City

Last Updated: May 12, 2025 at 07:03

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Unlock the Full Story of The Next Best Thing

Don't stop at just watching — explore The Next Best Thing in full detail. From the complete plot summary and scene-by-scene timeline to character breakdowns, thematic analysis, and a deep dive into the ending — every page helps you truly understand what The Next Best Thing is all about. Plus, discover what's next after the movie.

The Next Best Thing Summary

Read a complete plot summary of The Next Best Thing, 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 Next Best Thing Summary

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Characters, Settings & Themes in The Next Best Thing

The Next Best Thing Spoiler-Free Summary

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The Next Best Thing Spoiler-Free Summary

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