The Rewrite 2015

Keith Michaels, a disheartened screenwriter, trudges through life after a string of unsuccessful pitches and a dwindling bank account. His sole claim to fame lies in the distant past, when his screenplay Paradise Misplaced won the Best Screenplay Award 15 years ago. Now, Keith finds himself relegated to teaching screenwriting at Binghamton University in Upstate New York, a far cry from the Hollywood glory days.

Upon arrival, Keith’s cantankerous nature immediately clashes with fellow professor Mary Weldon, sparking tension and disdain. His unprofessional behavior also leads him into an ill-fated affair with undergraduate student Karen Gabney, which fizzles out quickly. Furthermore, Keith’s disdain for his teaching role is palpable, as evidenced by his decision to select students based on physical appearance rather than merit, leaving them idle for months.

However, after a blistering rebuke from Karen regarding his competence, Keith begins to redirect his energy towards coaching his students and fostering their passion for writing. He discovers a hidden gem in Clem Ronson, a shy and awkward individual whose script garners the attention of his agent, Ellen.

Keith also forms an unlikely friendship with mature student Holly Carpenter, a single mother of two who is trapped in a loveless relationship. Despite their differing perspectives on life – Keith believes that his failing career and strained relationship with estranged son Alex are irreparable, while Holly maintains a steadfast optimism – they find common ground in their shared struggles. Holly’s words of wisdom eventually pierce Keith’s armor, prompting him to reach out to Alex for the first time.

Meanwhile, Keith’s professional woes escalate when his outline for Paradise Misplaced II is rejected and he faces expulsion from the university after Karen’s relationship with him is exposed. In a fit of frustration, Keith launches into an argument with Holly and decides to abandon ship, leaving her stunned. In a last-ditch effort to salvage his reputation, Keith accompanies Clem to Manhattan for a meeting with Hollywood producers. As they near the halfway point, Keith experiences an epiphany about the positive impact he’s had on his students, including Clem.

With renewed confidence, Keith leaves Clem to continue the meeting solo and returns to Binghamton to save his job – which he ultimately achieves through a heartfelt apology to Professor Weldon.

As Keith undergoes a profound transformation in his values, he develops an unbridled admiration for Holly’s unwavering dedication to her goals, their shared enthusiasm sparking a palpable connection between them. Meanwhile, he makes the deliberate choice to rebuff Ellen’s entreaties to return to the glitz and glamour of Hollywood, instead opting to remain in Binghamton where he can pour his heart and soul into teaching and crafting a screenplay that distills the essence of his experiences in this charming town. With a sense of responsibility, he politely requests that Ellen refrain from reaching out during class hours.

Upon his return, Keith is warmly welcomed back by his students who were left bewildered by his initial decision to depart only to reappear once again. He extends heartfelt apologies for any confusion caused and moves forward with a renewed commitment. As the curtain closes on this poignant tale, Keith’s phone silently pulses with a voicemail from Alex, leaving an indelible mark on the narrative.