What Goes Up

What Goes Up

Year: 2009

Language: English

Director: Jonathan Glatzer

Drama

In 1986, a cynical New York journalist is sent to cover a local hero’s welcome. He unexpectedly becomes drawn into the lives of a group of students grieving the loss of their unique and inspiring teacher. Immersing himself in their world, he finds himself caught in a complex situation involving hidden truths and intense emotions. The students look to him as a potential replacement for their mentor, leading him down a path of unexpected challenges and personal transformation.

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Timeline – What Goes Up (2009)

Trace every key event in What Goes Up (2009) 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

Introduction to Campbell Babbitt

Campbell Babbitt, a reporter from New York, is the central character of the film. He is depicted as a morally conflicted and emotionally troubled individual who comprises a unique lens through which the story unfolds.

New York
2

Assignment to Cover Christa McAuliffe

Campbell receives his assignment to cover Christa McAuliffe, the first civilian astronaut from New Hampshire. This opportunity presents him with a chance to chase a conventional hero story, something he initially looks forward to.

New Hampshire
3

Arrival in New Hampshire

Upon arriving in the quaint town of New Hampshire, Campbell reaches out to an old college friend. Instead of a warm reunion, he uncovers the tragic news of the friend's suicide, which sets a somber tone for his visit.

New Hampshire
4

Encounter with Molly Shannon

Molly Shannon's character, a teacher, attempts to protect the town from a growing scandal related to the suicide. Campbell discovers the complexity of the situation through his interactions with her.

New Hampshire
5

Meeting the Students

Campbell becomes fascinated by a group of students profoundly impacted by their unconventional teacher. These students, a mix of misfits and outcasts, provide a fresh perspective on their loss, which differs from Campbell's expectations.

Local High School
6

Campbell's Professional Misstep

To gain the students' trust, Campbell candidly shares details about a professional misstep he faced in New York. This act of vulnerability leads to deeper discussions and a complex relationship with the students.

7

Blurring Lines of Mentor and Student

As the story progresses, the lines between Campbell as a mentor and the students begin to blur. This shift reveals the students’ profound insights into life, loss, and grief, causing Campbell to reflect deeply on his own experiences.

8

Confronting Personal Vulnerabilities

Babbitt faces his own vulnerabilities throughout his relationship with the students. He realizes that he might need a hero in his life, illustrating a poignant twist in the narrative.

9

Dangerous Infatuation

Campbell develops a dangerous infatuation with one of the students, who is rumored to have had an affair with his deceased friend. This complicated situation adds layers of emotional conflict to his journey.

10

Exploring Teenage Anguish

The narrative captures Campbell's immersion into the chaotic world of teenage angst and grief. Through the students’ wild expressions, he begins to reconsider his perception of heroism and personal truth.

1986 Local High School
11

The Impact of Loss

The unfolding events lead Campbell to witness the students grappling with their profound grief over their teacher's death. Their struggles foster an environment of honesty and raw emotion that challenges his worldview.

12

Emotional Transformation

As the story reaches its climax, Campbell undergoes a significant emotional transformation. The journey forces him to confront layers of unresolved feelings, leading him to rethink his role as a reporter and a mentor.

13

Final Reckoning

The culmination of Campbell’s explorations results in a powerful conclusion where he must reckon with his past missteps and the impact of his interactions with the students. This moment reflects the film's overarching themes of redemption and understanding.

14

Closure and Reflection

Ultimately, Campbell finds a sense of closure within himself as he reflects on the experiences and insights gained from the students. Their influence leaves a lasting impact, changing his outlook on life and heroism.

Last Updated: October 27, 2024 at 17:21

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What Goes Up Summary

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What Goes Up Summary

Characters, Settings & Themes in What Goes Up

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Characters, Settings & Themes in What Goes Up

More About What Goes Up

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