Don't Think Twice 2016
Made by
The Film Arcade
Plot Summary
In the bustling heart of New York, a colorful ensemble of improv aficionados known as The Commune aims for the heights of comedic fame, guided by the magnetic Miles (Mike Birbiglia). This diverse cast includes Jack, an electrifying performer with a flair for the dramatic; Sam, his insecure girlfriend who unofficially acts as the emcee; Allison, a creative genius nurturing her artistic ambitions through a graphic novel; Lindsay, a trust-fund baby enjoying a life of leisure; and Bill, a passionate improv devotee striving for success. As they navigate their artistic endeavors, the group encounters an unexpected opportunity when representatives from Weekend Live, a sketch comedy show reminiscent of Saturday Night Live, attend one of their performances.
Overjoyed at the chance to audition for the show once again—after experiencing rejection in the past—Miles is filled with hope. However, it is Jack (Keegan-Michael Key), whose inflated ego spirals out of control during the performance, igniting frustration among his fellow troupe members. Following this mishap, Jack receives a surprise call that invites him and Sam to audition. Seizing the moment, Jack auditions solo, while Sam’s anxiety prevents her from participating.
To everyone’s astonishment, Jack is chosen as a new cast member, propelling him into the limelight. His friends begin to inquire about potential roles in writing or audition opportunities. Meanwhile, Bill’s life takes a turn when his father suffers a severe motorcycle accident in Philadelphia, prompting the group to come together to support him during this challenging time.
As Jack acclimates to his new position at Weekend Live, he faces the overwhelming demands of being part of the show. While The Commune gains popularity, it becomes evident that most of the audience is only interested in Jack’s charming ticket-taker character, rather than the contributions of his fellow performers. With their theater facing closure, the crew opts to put on a new show at a different venue, but exorbitant ticket prices frighten potential attendees away.
On the eve of this pivotal performance, The Commune gathers to watch Weekend Live, only to be blindsided when they witness Jack performing a sketch strikingly similar to one they had crafted together. Outraged by this apparent betrayal, the group crashes the after-party, where Miles confronts Jack, leading to a physical altercation before being thrown out. Hurt and betrayed, Miles then turns his frustration on Lindsay (Kate Micucci), only to find out that she has accepted a position with Weekend Live and was reluctant to embarrass herself in front of her new peers. This shocking twist breeds resentment among Miles, Allison (Gillian Jacobs), and Bill (Chris Gethard), leaving their relationships irrevocably altered as they storm off into the night.
As the final curtain falls on The Commune’s last show, Sam’s opening line, “Has anyone had a particularly bad day?” conveys a poignant sense of vulnerability. A member of the audience points out her own struggles, prompting Sam to embark on a solo improvisational journey where she finds herself metaphorically trapped at the bottom of a well, while her fellow castmates scramble to rescue her. In a show of support, Jack arrives, vowing never to leave her side; nevertheless, Sam acknowledges her acceptance of their relationship’s end.
Fast-forward eight months, and Jack and Lindsay continue to dazzle audiences as a successful duo, crafting fresh skits for Weekend Live. Meanwhile, Miles has rekindled happiness with a high school sweetheart, while Sam, Bill, and Allison dive into establishing their new improv project, scouting for local talent to join them. They reunite under sorrowful circumstances—Bill’s father’s passing—but despite unresolved tensions, their enduring friendship prevails, showcasing a resilience built through shared experiences and creativity.
Timeline
The Commune Assembles
In the vibrant heart of New York, a diverse group of aspiring comedians gather to form a unique improv troupe known as The Commune. Led by the charismatic Miles, the ensemble includes characters such as the dramatic Jack, anxious Sam, ambitious Allison, carefree Lindsay, and devoted Bill, each bringing their distinct personalities and dreams to the collective pursuit of comedic success.
The Opportunity Arises
The Commune receives a thrilling opportunity when representatives from a popular sketch comedy show, reminiscent of Saturday Night Live, attend one of their performances. Excited by the chance to audition, especially after past rejections, Miles and the gang hope to make a significant impression on the industry.
Jack's Ego Takes Over
During a critical performance, Jack's confidence spirals into arrogance, frustrating his fellow troupe members. His over-the-top antics lead to a disastrous show, but surprisingly, this moment leads to a surprise audition invitation for both Jack and his girlfriend Sam.
Solo Audition for Jack
Eager to make his mark, Jack auditions solo for the sketch show while Sam grapples with her anxiety and refrains from participating. To everyone's disbelief, Jack impressively secures a spot in the show, skyrocketing him into the comedic limelight and leaving his friends eager for their own opportunities.
Bill Faces Personal Crisis
As Jack navigates his new success, Bill receives devastating news of his father's severe motorcycle accident in Philadelphia. The Commune rallies around Bill, exemplifying the importance of friendship and support in times of personal struggle.
Jack's Rise to Fame
Adapting to life as a cast member on Weekend Live proves to be a challenge for Jack, as he contends with the pressures and demands that come with it. Meanwhile, The Commune's popularity grows, but it becomes clear that the audience's attention is mainly focused on Jack, leaving the other members feeling sidelined.
A New Show and Financial Strains
In a bid to revive their dwindling theater, The Commune decides to stage a new show at a different venue. However, their plans falter when the high ticket prices deter potential audience members, further challenging their artistic ambitions.
Betrayal at Weekend Live
On the night of their significant performance, The Commune watches Weekend Live, only to be shocked by Jack performing a sketch eerily similar to one they had created together. Outraged by this perceived betrayal, the group confronts Jack at the after-party, leading to a physical altercation and increased tensions among them.
Lindsay's New Opportunity
In the aftermath of the confrontation, Miles directs his frustration toward Lindsay, only to discover that she has joined Weekend Live as well. Her desire to avoid embarrassment in front of her new acquaintances raises further resentment within the group, fracturing their relationships deeper.
Sam's Improv Breakthrough
During the Commune's final show, Sam's reflective opening line leads her on a solo improvisational journey, where she confronts her vulnerabilities. When fellow cast members struggle to reach her metaphorically trapped at the bottom of a well, Jack arrives to support her, yet the complexity of their relationship becomes palpable.
Eight Months Later
In a time jump, it becomes evident that Jack and Lindsay have found success as a comedic duo on Weekend Live, while Miles has rekindled a relationship with a high school sweetheart. Meanwhile, Sam, Bill, and Allison embark on creating a new improv project, showcasing their commitment to artistic growth despite previous turmoil.
Farewell to Bill's Father
The group reunites under somber circumstances, mourning the passing of Bill's father. This gathering serves as a reminder of the enduring bonds of friendship and creativity forged through shared experiences, even amidst unresolved tensions.
Characters
Miles
Miles serves as the emotional core of the group, a dedicated and passionate leader who struggles with feelings of inadequacy and jealousy. His commitment to his friends and their craft highlights his character's depth, yet he contends with the challenges of unspoken rivalries and betrayal. Miles ultimately seeks personal happiness and reconciliation.
Jack
Jack is an electrifying performer driven by a craving for spotlight and success. His inflated ego and ambition often cloud his judgment, leading to tensions within the group. However, his ultimate talent and charm reveal his complexity, showcasing both his vulnerabilities and the impact of fame on personal relationships.
Sam
Sam is characterized by her insecurity and conflict in pursuing her ambitions. Acting as the unofficial emcee, she grapples with her own identity and fears of inadequacy, particularly in relation to her boyfriend's newfound success. Her journey toward self-acceptance is poignant throughout the film.
Allison
Allison is a creative genius with aspirations beyond the stage, channeling her artistic vision into a graphic novel. She embodies both ambition and determination, while also navigating the group's dynamics and the reality of creative collaboration. Her character reflects the struggles and triumphs of an artist seeking validation.
Lindsay
Lindsay enjoys a life of luxury, yet her journey challenges the stereotype of the trust-fund baby. She must confront her own ambitions and the dynamics within the group, especially as her decisions lead her to choices that complicate her friendships. Her character adds depth to the theme of ambition and loyalty.
Bill
Bill is a deeply passionate improv devotee whose commitment to his craft is tested by personal tragedy. His journey through loss underscores the film's emotional weight and demonstrates the strength of friendships forged in adversity. His character resonates with themes of loyalty and resilience.
Setting
Time period
Contemporary
The film is set in contemporary times, reflecting current societal dynamics and challenges faced by artists in the competitive landscape of entertainment. This period showcases the rise of social media influencers and the evolving nature of success in show business.
Location
New York
New York is known as a cultural and artistic hub, especially famed for its vibrant theater scene. The city's bustling environment fosters creativity and ambition, attracting diverse talent from all walks of life. It's a place where dreams are chased, and stories unfold on many stages.
Themes
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Ambition
The film explores the relentless pursuit of artistic ambition among a group of friends dreaming of comedic success. As they navigate personal and professional challenges, the theme of ambition showcases both the drive to achieve and the sacrifices made along the way. The competition and desire for recognition create friction and conflict within their close-knit group.
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Betrayal
Betrayal weaves throughout the story, primarily exemplified by **Jack**'s actions that lead to deep feelings of hurt among his friends. The apparent theft of their creative ideas serves as a stark reminder of how ambition can cloud loyalty. This theme highlights the fragility of relationships when aspirations begin to overshadow personal connections.
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Friendship
The theme of friendship is central to the film, showcasing the bond among **The Commune** as they support each other through triumphs and tragedies. Despite the tumultuous events, their commitment to one another is strong, illustrating how friendships can endure through even the most testing times. This theme emphasizes the importance of community in pursuing artistic endeavors.
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