About Last Night

About Last Night 2014

Directed by

Steve Pink

Steve Pink

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Plot Summary


Best friends Bernie Litko and Danny Martin decide to hit up a popular bar in Los Angeles called the Broadway Bar for a night of drinking and fun. As they indulge in drinks, Bernie shares his recent hook-up story about a woman named Joan Derrickson, who is also relaying their encounter to her friend Debbie Sullivan. The narrative alternates between the two pairs, with Bernie boasting about the passionate connection he had with Joan.

After some alcohol-fueled antics that include teasing each other about previous relationships, Joan and Bernie sneak away to the bathroom for an intimate rendezvous, leaving Danny and Debbie awkwardly behind. When Debbie’s phone buzzes, she informs Danny that she must leave for an early morning commitment, but he offers to accompany her out. During their conversation, Danny learns that Debbie, who has lived in Los Angeles for six years, has never attended a Dodgers game. He gallantly offers to take her but his offer quickly turns complicated when Debbie encounters her ex, Terrell Owens, who is dismissive of Danny.

Unbeknownst to them, their chemistry intensifies, leading to passionate moments that eventually escalate to a memorable night together. Meanwhile, Debbie confides in Joan about their budding relationship, even praising Danny’s skills in the bedroom. As the summer progresses, the couple enjoys their newfound connection, often skipping work to revel in each other’s company, including a romantic outing to a Dodgers game.

However, Casey McNeil, the owner of an Irish bar that both Danny and Bernie represent in their jobs, is struggling financially, prompting stress for both young men. Meanwhile, Joan’s relationship with Bernie takes tumultuous turns as she questions their status. After an instance of relationship turmoil, by summer’s end, Debbie moves in with Danny, much to the dismay of both Bernie and Joan.

As the seasons change, Danny and Debbie’s bonding deepens. One evening, however, a surprise phone call from Danny’s ex-girlfriend, Alison, introduces tensions into their relationship. This marks the beginning of misunderstandings and confrontations. Halloween brings further complications when a party ignites insecurities, culminating in a fierce argument between Bernie and Joan that leaves both couples at crossroads.

As winter sets in, the couple’s connection begins to crumble under the strain of misunderstandings, leading to a heartbreaking New Year’s Eve where they part ways. Both return to their previous lives but find themselves struggling with loneliness and longing for what they once had.

By spring, Bernie and Joan’s relationship reignites while Danny grapples with the challenge of moving on. Despite several distractions and potential love interests, both he and Debbie continue to yearn for one another. In a serendipitous twist, the couple’s paths cross again, reawakening old feelings through their love for their shared puppy, Pacino.

In the culmination of their story, amidst the stirring emotions and rekindled love, Danny and Debbie gradually find themselves drawn back together, unified by their past experiences and the hope for a future filled with laughter and shared memories.

Timeline


Night Out at Broadway Bar

Best friends Bernie Litko and Danny Martin head to the popular Broadway Bar in Los Angeles for a night of fun and drinks. Here, Bernie shares his story about a recent hook-up with a woman named Joan Derrickson, creating an atmosphere filled with laughter and camaraderie.

Broadway Bar, Los Angeles

Intimate Rendezvous

As they drink, Bernie and Joan sneak off to the bathroom for a private moment, leaving Danny and Debbie behind. Their decision to steal some time away hints at a budding romance, adding tension to the night.

Broadway Bar, Los Angeles

Early Morning Commitment

After some fun, Debbie receives a notification on her phone prompting her to leave for an early morning commitment. Danny, intrigued by her, offers to walk her out, revealing a growing connection between them.

Meeting Terrell Owens

During their conversation outside, Danny discovers that Debbie has never attended a Dodgers game despite living in Los Angeles for six years. The conversation takes a complicated turn when Debbie's ex, Terrell Owens, appears and dismisses Danny.

Growing Chemistry

Amidst their night out, Danny and Debbie's chemistry intensifies, and they share passionate moments which lead to a memorable night together. This unforeseen connection blossoms, deeply impacting both characters.

Confiding in Friends

Debbie confides in Joan about her budding relationship with Danny and praises his skills in the bedroom. This conversation reveals the depth and enthusiasm of their developing romance.

Skipping Work for Love

As the summer unfolds, Danny and Debbie continually skip work to enjoy each other's company. One of their memorable outings is attending a Dodgers game together, solidifying their relationship.

Summer Dodgers Stadium

Financial Struggles

Meanwhile, Casey McNeil, owner of an Irish bar they work for, faces financial struggles, adding pressure to both Danny and Bernie. This stress impacts their friendships and relationships as they navigate through these challenges.

Relationship Tumult

Joan questions her relationship with Bernie as their connection faces difficulties. The emotional turmoil begins to affect both couples, hinting at future problems.

Moving In Together

By the end of summer, despite the turmoil, Debbie moves in with Danny, marking a significant progression in their relationship. However, this decision doesn't sit well with both Bernie and Joan, stirring up hidden resentments.

End of Summer

Ex-Girlfriend's Call

As seasons change, Danny receives a surprise call from his ex-girlfriend, Alison, creating friction in his relationship with Debbie. This unforeseen contact introduces misunderstandings and challenges for the blossoming couple.

Fall

Halloween Party

At a Halloween party, insecurities surface leading to a heated argument between Bernie and Joan. The confrontation leaves both couples at a crossroads, struggling with their relationships amidst external pressures.

Halloween

New Year's Eve Heartbreak

As winter arrives, misunderstandings slowly unravel Danny and Debbie's relationship. On New Year's Eve, the couple sadly parts ways, each feeling the weight of their lost connection as they revert to their previous lives.

New Year's Eve

Struggles with Loneliness

Following their breakup, both Danny and Debbie struggle with loneliness, reflecting on their memories and experiences together. Each feels a longing for what they once shared, complicating their emotional states.

Winter

Rekindled Love

By spring, as Bernie rekindles his relationship with Joan, Danny and Debbie unexpectedly cross paths again while bonding over their shared puppy, Pacino. This chance meeting sparks a resurgence of feelings, leading to a hopeful reunion.

Spring

Characters


Bernie Litko (Kevin Hart)

Bernie is the boisterous best friend, known for his humor and charm. He often boasts about his romantic escapades, reflecting a carefree attitude towards life. However, beneath his playful exterior lies a deeper vulnerability that comes to light throughout the film as he navigates his relationship with Joan.

🤣 Comedic ❤️ Charming 🤔 Vulnerable

Danny Martin (Michael Ealy)

Danny is a sincere and attentive character who deeply values his relationships. His growing affection for Debbie highlights his more romantic and committed side, contrasting with Bernie’s lighter approach. As the story progresses, Danny’s struggles with heartbreak and longing make him a relatable figure.

❤️ Romantic 😬 Complicated 🌟 Sincere

Joan Derrickson (Regina Hall)

Joan is a strong-willed woman who balances passion with introspection in her romantic pursuits. Her dynamic with Bernie often reflects the tension between desire and insecurity, showcasing her complexities as she navigates the ups and downs of love.

🔥 Passionate 🤔 Introspective 🥂 Independent

Debbie Sullivan (Joy Bryant)

Debbie is a grounded character who seeks genuine connection while dealing with her past. Her relationship with Danny showcases her yearning for stability and love, while also illustrating the challenges of moving on from previous relationships.

❤️ Yearning 🌼 Grounded 🔄 Seeking

Casey McNeil (Christopher McDonald)

Casey is a concerned bar owner facing financial hardships, adding a layer of stress to the lives of Bernie and Danny. His struggles serve as a backdrop to the friends' adventures and highlight the pressures of adulthood.

😟 Stressed 🎭 Businessman 💔 Burdened

Alison (Paula Patton)

Alison is Danny's ex-girlfriend, whose unexpected return introduces complications into his relationship with Debbie. Her presence sparks insecurities and challenges, testing the bond between the new couple.

🤯 Complicated 💔 Past Love 🌪️ Chaotic

Setting


Time period

Summer to Winter

The film spans across various seasons, from the warmth of summer to the chill of winter, symbolizing the transitions in the characters' relationships. The seasonal changes reflect their emotional journeys, with summer representing new beginnings and excitement, while winter signifies challenges and heartache.

Location

Los Angeles, Broadway Bar, Irish bar

The movie primarily takes place in Los Angeles, a vibrant city known for its entertainment industry and diverse culture. One key location is the Broadway Bar, a popular spot where the main characters engage in revelry and deepen their relationships. Additionally, the presence of an Irish bar serves as a backdrop for the struggles facing the characters in their careers.

🏙️ City 🍻 Bar 🇮🇪 Pub

Themes


❤️

Love

At its core, the movie explores the theme of love in its various forms—romantic, passionate, and at times tumultuous. The relationships between the characters evolve and deepen, illustrating the complexities of modern romance. As they navigate through misunderstandings and reconciliations, the pursuit of love remains a compelling driving force.

😔

Heartbreak

Heartbreak is a prominent theme as characters face the challenges of relationships strained by insecurity and external pressures. Misunderstandings lead to dramatic confrontations, and the emotional toll is palpable as they grapple with loneliness. The film poignantly portrays the pain of lost connections and the longing for rekindled love.

🧩

Friendship

Friendship plays a significant role, illustrating how it shapes personal relationships and provides support during challenging times. The bond between Bernie and Danny offers comedic relief and a foundation of loyalty, even as they navigate romantic entanglements. Their dynamic exemplifies the importance of camaraderie throughout life’s ups and downs.

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