What Happens Next

What Happens Next

Year: 2011

Runtime: 100 mins

Language: English

Director: Jay Arnold

DramaRomanceComedy

After wealthy businessman Paul Greco (Jon Lindstrom) retires early, his domineering sister Elise (Wendy Malick) pressures him to settle down with a partner of her choosing. Instead, Paul becomes drawn to Andy (Chris Murrah), a charming gay man he meets at a dog park, and the two forge a close friendship that challenges Elise’s plans.

Light-hearted
Happy ending
Emotionally light
Low intensity
Steady pacing
Simple story

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Timeline & Setting – What Happens Next (2011)

Explore the full timeline and setting of What Happens Next (2011). Follow every major event in chronological order and see how the environment shapes the story, characters, and dramatic tension.

Time period

Contemporary era

The movie is set in the present day, capturing current social dynamics and lifestyle topics. It portrays contemporary attitudes towards sexuality, family, and societal expectations, emphasizing modern values and cultural shifts relevant to today's society.

Location

City Park, Socialite circles

The story primarily takes place in a city park where Paul and Andy meet regularly, serving as a neutral ground for their developing relationship. The park reflects a communal space for leisure, social interaction, and personal reflection. Additionally, scenes involving high-society events and art galleries highlight the upscale social environment surrounding the characters.

🌳 Park 💃 Socialite 🎨 Art Scene

Last Updated: August 19, 2025 at 05:06

Main Characters – What Happens Next (2011)

Meet the key characters of What Happens Next (2011), with detailed profiles, motivations, and roles in the plot. Understand their emotional journeys and what they reveal about the film’s deeper themes.

Paul Greco (Jon Lindstrom)

A wealthy, retired socialite grappling with the shifts in his personal identity and relationships. His interactions with Andy spark a journey of self-discovery, as he navigates societal perceptions and his own desires. Paul embodies the theme of redefining traditional roles and expectations.

💼 Wealthy 🧠 Reflective 🌹 Open-minded

Andy Chance (Chris Murrah)

An independent, self-employed advertising professional who is comfortable with his sexuality and personality. He challenges societal norms with his open attitude and genuine nature. Andy's character highlights authenticity and the pursuit of happiness.

🎨 Creative 🏳️‍🌈 LGBTQ+ 🗣️ Confident

Elise (Wendie Malick)

Paul’s overbearing sister who is concerned about her brother's changing behaviors. Her protective instinct is rooted in her own life experiences and her relationship with her son. Elise represents familial concern and societal expectations.

🙋‍♀️ Sister 🧭 Overprotective 🎭 Dramatic

Roz (Natalia Cigliuti)

Andy’s adopted sister and a successful art gallery owner. She becomes uneasy about Andy’s growing interest in Paul, reflecting the tensions between personal desires and social perceptions. Roz embodies ambition and the complexities of familial loyalty.

🎨 Art Lover 💼 Professional 😟 Tense

Brian (Ariel Shafir)

Elise’s son, an artist involved in alternative lifestyles, representing a contrast to his mother's conservative views. His character explores themes of artistic freedom and generational differences.

🎭 Artist 🧬 Alternative Lifestyle 💡 Creative

Last Updated: August 19, 2025 at 05:06

Major Themes – What Happens Next (2011)

Explore the central themes of What Happens Next (2011), from psychological, social, and emotional dimensions to philosophical messages. Understand what the film is really saying beneath the surface.

🌈 Love & Identity

The film explores the fluidity of love and the importance of authentic self-expression. It delves into various forms of relationships beyond traditional norms, emphasizing acceptance and understanding. The characters' journeys highlight personal discovery and redefining familial bonds.

🌀 Family & Relationships

The story examines the complexity of familial ties, including estranged relationships and chosen families. It emphasizes communication, acceptance, and the nuanced ways love manifests within and outside biological connections. The characters face challenges in reconciling their personal identities with societal expectations.

Last Updated: August 19, 2025 at 05:06

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What Happens Next Summary

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More About What Happens Next

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What Happens Next (2011) Plot Summary & Movie Recap

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