Win Win

Win Win

Year: 2011

Runtime: 106 min

Language: English

Director: Thomas McCarthy

Comedy

When down-on-his-luck lawyer Mike Flaherty moonlights as a high school wrestling coach, he stumbles upon an unlikely star athlete through a series of unconventional deals. But just as his fortunes seem to be changing, the boy's troubled mother emerges from rehab, her financial struggles threatening to upend everything and forcing Mike to confront his own moral compass.

Warning: spoilers below!

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Timeline – Win Win (2011)
Trace every key event in Win Win (2011) 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

Mike's Dual Responsibilities

In the quaint town of New Providence, New Jersey, Mike Flaherty struggles to balance his busy legal practice with his passion for coaching wrestling. This balance becomes increasingly precarious as he navigates the financial difficulties that threaten his family's stability.

New Providence, New Jersey
2

Guardian Role Assumed

Mike is appointed guardian for Leo Poplar, a court client suffering from early dementia with no known relatives. He cleverly secures a monthly stipend of $1500, intending to manage both Leo's and his family's needs.

Court
3

Kyle's Arrival

The dynamics shift when Kyle, Leo's troubled grandson, arrives from Ohio seeking refuge. Concerned about his grandfather, Kyle unexpectedly becomes part of Mike's household, complicating their family situation.

Mike's home
4

Kyle's Family Background

Mike and Jackie learn about Kyle's challenging family background, which includes a mother struggling with addiction. This new information highlights the difficulties Kyle has faced, adding to the complexity of their living arrangement.

Mike's home
5

Kyle Joins Wrestling Practice

After joining wrestling practice, Kyle's exceptional talent is quickly recognized. This discovery inspires Mike to enroll Kyle in high school, hoping to elevate the struggling wrestling team with his skills.

Local High School
6

Cindy's Return

Just when things seem to settle, Kyle's mother, Cindy, reenters the picture. Recently out of rehab, she intends to reclaim custody of her father and son, seeking to gain access to their inheritance.

Mike's home
7

Tensions Rise

The tension escalates when Kyle discovers that Mike had initially promised to keep Leo at home but later moved him to a nursing facility. This revelation causes Kyle to feel betrayed, accusing Mike of being similar to his opportunistic mother.

Mike's home
8

Mike's Revelation

Confronted by Kyle's anger and his own actions' consequences, Mike has a moment of clarity. He realizes the importance of rectifying the situation for both Leo and Kyle, motivated by a desire to protect them.

Mike's office
9

A Proposal to Cindy

In a bid to secure Leo and Kyle’s well-being, Mike proposes to Cindy that she allow him to take care of both in exchange for his monthly stipend. This offer reflects Mike's newfound determination to prioritize their needs over his own.

Cindy's location
10

Kyle's New Home

Following the agreement, Mike and Jackie welcome Kyle permanently into their family. This new arrangement creates a supportive environment where Kyle can thrive and build a relationship with Leo.

Mike's home
11

Returning Leo Home

As part of the resolution, Mike takes the necessary steps to bring Leo back home. This decision highlights Mike's commitment to keeping families together, showcasing the importance of love and understanding.

Mike's home
12

Financial Challenges Persist

Despite the positive changes, Mike faces ongoing financial challenges. To manage the family's expenses, he decides to take a bartending job, showcasing his willingness to do whatever it takes for his new family.

Local Bar
13

Team Triumphs

With Kyle on the wrestling team, Mike's coaching strategy begins to bear fruit. The hard work pays off as the wrestling team starts to show significant improvement, building a strong bond among teammates.

Local Gym
14

Family Bonds Strengthened

As they adapt to their new roles, the Flaherty family grows closer, embracing the challenges and successes together. The experience teaches them the value of unity, resilience, and unconditional love.

Mike's home

Last Updated: November 07, 2024 at 22:41

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