Eat Wheaties! 2021
Directed by
Scott Abramovitch
Made by
Screen Media Films
Plot Summary
As the CEO of a burgeoning software company, Sid Straw finds his life taking an unforeseen detour when he’s assigned the task of organizing a reunion for the West Coast alumni of the University of Pennsylvania. His excitement about the reunion leads him to reach out and bombard Elizabeth Banks with eager public messages, unaware that her agent, Frankie Riceborough, is closely observing their correspondence with rising anxiety.
Things take a dramatic turn when Sid requests an autographed picture for his brother Tom’s birthday, which ultimately goes awry, leading to an embarrassing mishap. This small incident sets off a domino effect that culminates in a restraining order being placed against him.
As the news of the restraining order spreads rapidly, Sid’s professional life begins to spiral out of control, putting him in the midst of a viral spectacle that ultimately costs him his job. Determined to clear his name, he enlists the help of James Fisk, a budget-conscious lawyer who’s on the verge of passing his bar exam, and is about to take on his very first case. As Sid anxiously waits for James to gain his license, he must also grapple with the repercussions of his actions, facing the music in a crowded courtroom.
During the hearing, Sid’s struggle to present compelling evidence to overturn the restraining order seems to seal his fate. Just when it appears that all hope is lost, a surge of memories floods back to him, particularly a powerful recollection of how Elizabeth had once motivated the university’s volleyball team to defy their limits and face a fierce opponent. This pivotal flashback serves as the vital breakthrough Sid desperately needs, leading the judge to rule in his favor.
With the restraining order finally lifted, Sid is now free to attend the reunion, where fresh opportunities await him. After visiting Tom and his wife following the birth of their child, Sid receives a call from an unknown number. While he opts not to answer, the audience is treated to a heartfelt message left by Elizabeth, reminiscing about their shared moments and subtly hinting at her latest cinematic projects. She concludes her message with a warm reminder: > “Eat Wheaties.”
Timeline
Sid Straw Assigned Reunion Task
Sid Straw, the CEO of a burgeoning software company, is given the unexpected responsibility of organizing a reunion for the West Coast alumni of the University of Pennsylvania. This new task ignites a sense of excitement in him as he starts preparing for the event ahead.
Eager Correspondence with Elizabeth Banks
In his enthusiasm for the reunion, Sid starts reaching out to Elizabeth Banks, bombarding her with public messages. Unbeknownst to him, her agent, Frankie Riceborough, watches their interactions with increasing concern.
Request for Autographed Picture
In a bid to make his brother Tom's birthday special, Sid requests an autographed picture from Elizabeth Banks. This seemingly innocent request spirals into an embarrassing incident that escalates quickly.
Embarrassing Mishap and Consequences
The mishap resulting from Sid's request culminates in the issuance of a restraining order against him. This unexpected turn of events sends shockwaves through his life, becoming a viral sensation almost immediately.
Sid's Professional Downfall
As news of the restraining order circulates, Sid's professional life unravels rapidly. The viral spectacle not only undermines his reputation but ultimately costs him his job, leaving him desperate to rectify the situation.
Seeking Legal Help from James Fisk
Determined to fight the restraining order, Sid reaches out to James Fisk, a budget-conscious lawyer on the brink of passing his bar exam. This marks James’s very first case, and both men are thrown into a whirlwind of legal challenges.
Nervous Wait for James's License
While waiting for James to gain his license to represent him, Sid faces the harsh reality of his situation. His anxiety builds as he contemplates the impact of his actions and what may unfold in the courtroom.
Courtroom Hearing Begins
The day of the hearing arrives, and Sid must make a desperate attempt to present compelling evidence to overturn the restraining order. The atmosphere is tense, and he feels the weight of the situation pressing down on him.
Flashback for Inspiration
Just when it seems like Sid's fate is sealed, a powerful flashback inspires him. He recalls a moment when Elizabeth motivated the university’s volleyball team to give their all, which reignites his determination to fight back.
Judge's Favorable Ruling
In a surprising turn of events influenced by Sid's recollection, the judge rules in his favor, lifting the restraining order. This pivotal moment allows Sid to regain his freedom and look forward to attending the reunion.
Opportunity Awaits at the Reunion
With the restraining order behind him, Sid is excited to attend the highly anticipated reunion. It opens new doors for him, blending personal connections with potential opportunities in his professional life.
Visit to Tom's Family
Sid pays a visit to his brother Tom and his wife, who have just welcomed a new child into their family. This moment brings him joy amid the chaos, strengthening family bonds.
Unexpected Call from Elizabeth
After the visit, Sid receives a call from an unknown number but chooses not to answer. The audience soon hears a heartfelt message from Elizabeth, where she reminisces about their past and hints at her new projects.
A Warm Reminder
Elizabeth concludes her message to Sid with a thoughtful reminder to 'Eat Wheaties.' This personal touch leaves Sid reflecting on their shared experiences, hinting at their complex relationship.
Characters
Sid Straw (Tony Hale)
Sid is a well-meaning but misguided CEO whose excitement leads him to action without considering the consequences. His longing for connection and subsequent downfall reveal his vulnerability and determination to rectify his mistakes. Throughout the film, he embodies the struggles of modern communication clashes.
Frankie Riceborough (Sarah Chalke)
Frankie is Elizabeth Banks' agent, who experiences rising anxiety as Sid bombards her client with messages. Her character showcases the challenges of managing celebrity interactions while maintaining professional boundaries. Ultimately, she highlights the pressure and stress faced by those in the public relations field.
James Fisk (Paul Walter Hauser)
James is a budget-conscious lawyer eagerly approaching his first case, embodying the struggles of young professionals. His journey with Sid not only demonstrates the initial hurdles in legal practice but also highlights the importance of perseverance and support systems in the pursuit of justice.
Setting
Time period
The story unfolds in contemporary times, capturing the nuances of modern digital communication and its impacts on personal and professional relationships. It highlights societal norms and legal implications of unfiltered public interactions in the social media age.
Location
University of Pennsylvania, West Coast
The University of Pennsylvania is a prestigious Ivy League university located in Philadelphia, known for its rich academic history and notable alumni. The West Coast represents a vibrant cultural and economic region of the United States, often associated with innovation and diverse lifestyles.
Themes
📱
Social Media
The film delves into the implications of social media on interpersonal relationships. Sid's attempts to connect with a celebrity through public messages showcase the fine line between enthusiasm and obsession in the digital age. The ensuing fallout emphasizes how quickly one's personal reputation can be jeopardized online.
⚖️
Justice
The quest for justice is a central theme as Sid navigates the legal challenges posed by the restraining order. His journey through the courtroom reflects the often-complex legal systems and the hurdles individuals face in reclaiming their rights. Ultimately, Sid's redemption serves as a poignant reminder of the resilience of the human spirit.
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