This Is 40

The film begins with Pete and Debbie sharing an intimate moment in the shower. However, it quickly turns sour when Pete admits to taking a Viagra pill, causing Debbie to react with anger and disappointment.

Fast forwarding five years, Debbie is now the owner of a boutique store, and Pete manages a struggling record label. They are now parents to two daughters, navigating the trials of family life.

In an attempt to celebrate Debbie's birthday, they embark on a romantic getaway. Amidst indulging in marijuana cookies, they jokingly discuss the absurdity of what it would take to eliminate one another.

After a heartfelt discussion with her friends, Debbie decides to work on her marriage. She believes that exercise and better communication with her parents could strengthen their family bonds.

Debbie confronts Pete about the financial strain incurred from his continuous support of his deadbeat father, Larry. Despite her concerns, Pete remains unable to deny his father the help he seeks.

During a visit to her gynecologist, Debbie discovers she is pregnant. She decides to keep this life-altering news from Pete, further complicating their already strained relationship.

Debbie confronts a school bully, which leads to a heated confrontation with his mother, Catherine. In a meeting with the principal, both women maintain a front of ignorance, resulting in an unexpected understanding.

While out dancing with her friend Desi, Debbie's suspicions about possible embezzlement arise. She learns that Desi's extravagant lifestyle is due to her being an escort, shattering her trust.

Tensions rise at home as Sadie and Charlotte's squabbles begin to affect Pete and Debbie's relationship. The constant bickering creates friction between the couple, escalating their issues.

On Pete's 40th birthday, confrontations are unavoidable. He argues with Larry over finances, while Debbie faces her father Oliver about his absence, revealing cracks in their familial relationships.

In a rage after discovering Debbie's pregnancy, Pete storms out on his bicycle. This impulsive decision leads to an unfortunate accident, highlighting the dangers of unaddressed emotions.

After the accident, both Debbie and Larry gain insights into their familial roles. Larry reassures Debbie of her importance in keeping the family together, emphasizing the power of support.

Eventually, Pete approaches Debbie with genuine excitement about their growing family. This moment of honesty leads to reconciliation, prompting a hopeful new beginning for them.

The couple concludes their story by attending a small concert. Debbie encourages Pete to consider signing Ryan Adams, prompting him to take the initiative in his career once again.

As the film ends, a humorous scene unfolds during the credits. Catherine showcases her talent for improvising witty insults, leaving a lasting impression of laughter and light-heartedness.