Better Nate Than Ever 2022

In the heart of Pittsburgh, 13-year-old Nate Foster’s fixation on Broadway stardom has taken hold, much to the understanding yet tolerant nature of his parents, Rex and Sherrie. His older brother Anthony, however, is decidedly unimpressed by Nate’s eccentricities. As Nate navigates the treacherous waters of middle school, he finds solace in his sole confidant Libby, who despite her own stage fright, offers unwavering support for Nate’s artistic ambitions. The duo discovers that auditions are being held for a Broadway production of Lilo & Stitch, but Nate’s uncertainty about making the trip is momentarily set aside when his parents decide to take a break. Anthony seizes the opportunity to socialize with friends, while Nate concocts an elaborate ruse to spend the night at Libby’s house, ultimately convincing her to join him on a clandestine bus ride to New York City without anyone’s knowledge.

Upon arriving in the city that never sleeps, Nate and Libby locate the audition venue, only to be informed that they require a parental figure present. Fate intervenes as Nate’s maternal aunt Heidi, a struggling actress herself, happens to be at the auditions for A Solitary Woman. Nate passes her off as his guardian, much to Heidi’s delight in seeing her nephew. However, Heidi decides to do the responsible thing and contacts Sherrie, only to discover that she has lost her sister’s phone number. In a moment of mischief, Nate convinces Heidi that he has his parents’ approval, unwittingly leading her into a web of deception.

As the auditions unfold, Nate’s attempts at showcasing his flair for the dramatic are met with embarrassment when he accidentally tears his pants during a knee-dancing routine inspired by Fiddler on the Roof. With his confidence in tatters, Nate prepares to return to Pittsburgh with Libby, believing that his dreams have been shattered. Yet, he learns that he has received a callback, and with Libby’s encouragement, decides to stay behind for the next round of auditions.

In a poignant moment, Libby confesses her feelings for Nate, only to be gently rebuffed as he informs her that he views their friendship as platonic. With his heart now free from emotional entanglement, Nate dedicates himself to acing the callback, delivering a monologue that leaves the casting directors in awe of his talent. As the curtains close on this pivotal chapter in Nate’s journey, it becomes clear that his passion for Broadway will not be deterred by setbacks or self-doubt.

As desperation sets in, Nate finds solace on the streets, serenading strangers with a soulful voice that soon captures the hearts of TikTok enthusiasts. The sudden surge in popularity prompts him to reach out to Libby, who greets the news with unbridled enthusiasm before heading to the Museum of Natural History to reconnect with Heidi. Though initially perturbed by Nate’s decision not to return home, Heidi opens her doors to the aspiring performer, offering a warm refuge from the chill of reality. As it transpires, Heidi’s past is marked by a rift with her sister Sherrie, whose divergent dreams had driven them apart. Nevertheless, Heidi remains steadfast in her support for Nate’s artistic endeavors and encourages him to seize the opportunity that lies ahead.

Meanwhile, Anthony stumbles upon Nate’s viral video and arrives at Libby’s doorstep, demanding an explanation for this sudden turn of events. The next morning, Anthony and Libby converge on Heidi’s New York apartment, intent on whisking Nate away from the bright lights of the city. As they gather in her cozy space, Nate candidly acknowledges that his online fame may have embarrassed him, but he needs to take a leap of faith to achieve his dream.

Feeling the weight of Anthony’s words, Nate decides to make a break for it, slipping out of Heidi’s apartment through a fire exit - an experience he’s always craved. As they depart, Heidi fills Libby in on her plans to become a talent agent, marking the beginning of a new chapter in their lives.

The audition for Stitch arrives, and Nate’s initial embarrassment gives way to a sense of trepidation when his fellow hopefuls burst into laughter at his unorthodox approach. Undeterred, he launches into an impassioned rendition of “No One Gets Left Behind,” but falters when Heidi, Anthony, and Libby burst into the room. Abashed, Nate abandons his performance, only to be egged on by Anthony’s fervent declaration that Nate doesn’t embarrass him. This newfound confidence empowers Nate to complete his audition with aplomb.

The aftermath of the audition sees Nate reconciling with Anthony, who’s impressed by his friend’s gumption. Heidi, too, finds solace in Nate’s words, which inspire her to rekindle her relationship with Sherrie and seize opportunities anew. As they return home, Libby accepts Nate’s offer of a platonic friendship, marking the beginning of a new era in their bond.

The principal’s office summons Nate the following day, where he learns that his parents have been informed of his success - and that he’s landed the part! The curtain closes on this cinematic tale with Nate taking center stage in the musical, surrounded by Anthony, Libby, Heidi, and his beaming parents. Sherrie and Heidi have long since made amends, while Heidi has secured the lead role in a forthcoming solo project. As the lights dim, the audience is left to bask in the warm glow of redemption, friendship, and the pursuit of one’s passions.