Be Kind Rewind 2008

Store Faces Demolition

In the year 2003, the VHS rental store 'Be Kind Rewind' in Passaic, New Jersey, is facing imminent demolition. Its owner, Mr. Elroy Fletcher, is given just 60 days to renovate the store, which local authorities have labeled a slum.

Mr. Fletcher's Warning

Before departing on a trip to honor jazz pianist Fats Waller, Mr. Fletcher leaves his only employee, Mike, in charge. He warns Mike to keep his friend Jerry, known for his conspiratorial nature, away from the store to avoid potential chaos.

Chaos Ensues

Misinterpreting the warning written on a fogged-up train window, Mike neglects Mr. Fletcher's advice, leading to unforeseen trouble. Jerry, now believing he is being influenced by a nearby electrical substation, accidentally magnetizes himself and wipes out all the VHS tapes in the store.

Miss Falewicz's Involvement

In the midst of the chaos, Mr. Fletcher reaches out to Miss Falewicz, requesting her to return a film and monitor the store's activities. This adds a sense of urgency to Mike and Jerry's plight as they attempt to save the tape collection.

The Sweding Idea

Recognizing the need to replace the lost films, Mike concocts a plan to 'Swede' popular movies as a way to cope with the overwhelming situation. He proposes they act in a low-budget version of 'Ghostbusters,' which Jerry enthusiastically agrees to, leading them to create the film in a nearby library.

Alma Joins the Team

While working on their Sweded film, they get another request for 'Rush Hour 2.' To meet the increasing demand, they bring in Alma to their team, adding her unique flair to their amateur filmmaking adventures.

The Rise of Sweded Films

As word spreads about their humorous Sweded films, Mike, Jerry, and Alma become inundated with rental requests. To capitalize on this unexpected success, they cleverly claim that the films are authentic imports from Sweden and charge a premium price.

A Change in Plans

Upon returning, Mr. Fletcher initially contemplates transitioning to a DVD rental model. However, he quickly realizes the potential profitability of the Sweded films and gets involved in the filmmaking efforts, excited by the resurgence of interest.

The Copyright Crisis

Just as their success peaks, two court bailiffs arrive, claiming that their unauthorized films have led to copyright infringement. As they attempt to confiscate the films, the group's collection is tragically crushed under a steamroller.

Mr. Fletcher's Confession

In a moment of despair, Mr. Fletcher confesses to Mike that his claims of Fats Waller being born in the store were fabricated. With the deadline for demolition approaching and no funds for renovations, the team is crushed by the news.

Community Documentary

Determined to make a final effort, Jerry rallies the community to help create a documentary celebrating the fictional life of Fats Waller. They aptly title their tribute 'Fats Waller Was Born Here' as a heartfelt farewell.

Demolition Day

On the scheduled demolition day, Mr. Fletcher invites locals to witness the last hurrah of 'Be Kind Rewind.' In the rush, Jerry accidentally breaks their single television, but a neighboring DVD store owner offers a projector to save the event.

Unexpected Audience

As the group showcases their documentary on a white sheet in the store's window, they are surprised to see a large gathering of locals, city officials, and demolition workers quickly joining to watch. The atmosphere buzzes with anticipation as they cheer in support.

Demolition Canceled

After the film concludes, the crowd's enthusiastic applause catches the attention of the city council leader, who unexpectedly reconsiders the demolition plans. In a dramatic turn of events, the demolition is canceled, leaving everyone in a state of joy.