The Rewrite

The Rewrite

Year: 2015

Runtime: 107 min

Language: English

Director: Marc Lawrence

ComedyRomance

A screenwriter facing a creative slump accepts a teaching position at a university in upstate New York, hoping for an easy semester. While intending to simply coast through the job, he unexpectedly finds inspiration and connection with his students. As he interacts with them, particularly a single mother named Holly, Keith begins to re-evaluate his priorities and rediscover his passion for storytelling, leading him on a journey of self-discovery.

Warning: spoilers below!

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Timeline – The Rewrite (2015)

Trace every key event in The Rewrite (2015) 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

Keith's Disillusionment

Keith Michaels, once celebrated for his award-winning screenplay 'Paradise Misplaced', struggles with a series of unsuccessful pitches and dwindling finances. Now teaching screenwriting at Binghamton University, he grapples with the mundane aspects of his current life, feeling a stark contrast to his past Hollywood glory.

Binghamton University, Upstate New York
2

Conflict with Mary Weldon

Upon arriving at Binghamton University, Keith's grumpiness leads to immediate tension with fellow professor Mary Weldon. Their professional friction foreshadows Keith's unprofessional antics and questionable decisions as the story unfolds.

Binghamton University
3

Affair with Karen Gabney

Keith engages in a brief affair with undergraduate student Karen Gabney, which quickly fizzles out. This relationship further illustrates Keith's irresponsible attitude towards teaching and his students.

Binghamton University
4

Unfair Treatment of Students

Demonstrating his apathy, Keith chooses students based on their appearance rather than talent, stalling their growth and leaving many feeling abandoned. This decision highlights his disregard for the responsibilities of educating aspiring writers.

Binghamton University
5

Transformation Begins

After a harsh critique from Karen about his teaching capabilities, Keith starts to refocus on nurturing his students' passion. This moment marks the beginning of his journey toward redemption as he recognizes the potential in his student Clem Ronson.

Binghamton University
6

Friendship with Holly Carpenter

Keith develops an unexpected friendship with Holly Carpenter, a mature student. Despite living different lives, they bond over their personal struggles, with Holly's optimism gradually influencing Keith's outlook.

Binghamton University
7

Reconnection with Estranged Son

Holly's encouragement allows Keith to confront his feelings about his estranged son, Alex. He musters the courage to reach out to Alex for the first time in years, showcasing his emotional growth.

8

Career Setbacks

Keith faces rejection when his proposal for 'Paradise Misplaced II' is turned down, and he risks dismissal from the university once news of his affair with Karen surfaces. His career and personal life seem to be unraveling.

9

Pitch Meeting in Manhattan

Determined to salvage his career, Keith accompanies Clem to Manhattan for a pitch meeting with producers. This trip serves as a turning point, where Keith begins to recognize the positive impact he's had on his students.

Manhattan
10

Learning to Let Go

During the Manhattan trip, Keith experiences a revelation about the influence he has on his students, particularly Clem. This realization helps him understand the importance of putting his students first, leading to a significant change in his character.

Manhattan
11

Return to Binghamton

With renewed purpose, Keith returns to Binghamton and apologizes to Mary Weldon, successfully fighting for his job. His willingness to make amends illustrates his transformation and commitment to teaching.

Binghamton University
12

Declining Hollywood Offers

As Keith's values shift, he chooses to decline offers from his agent Ellen to return to Hollywood. Instead, he opts to focus on teaching and developing a new screenplay that reflects his journey in Binghamton.

Binghamton University
13

Warm Reception from Students

Upon returning to Binghamton, Keith is surprised by the warm reception from his students, who are confused by his earlier decision to leave. He expresses genuine remorse and reinforces his commitment to their education.

Binghamton University
14

Voicemail from Alex

As the story concludes, Keith receives a voicemail from his son Alex. This moment signifies a hopeful turning point in his relationship with Alex, leaving a poignant impact on his evolving story.

Last Updated: November 19, 2024 at 18:40

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The Rewrite Summary

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Characters, Settings & Themes in The Rewrite

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More About The Rewrite

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