Golden Exits 2018
Directed by
Alex Ross Perry
Made by
Vertical Entertainment
Plot Summary
Two families residing in the vibrant Carroll Gardens area of Brooklyn find their lives upended by the arrival of Naomi, a 25-year-old Australian intern who has connections with both families. Golden Exits delves deep into the complex relationships among the characters and highlights how Naomi’s presence significantly influences them. Both Nick and Buddy contemplate various potential relationships with Naomi, which Alyssa and Jess are somewhat conscious of. Their sisters Gwen and Sam are also drawn into the dynamic, as the worries and insecurities of each sister shed light on their differing feelings about marriage and singlehood.
Naomi emerges as an enigmatic, disruptive force—“an obscure object of desire, a symbol of lost youth and possibility”—and she remains fully aware of her impact on the group and what she hopes to achieve from this situation. This awareness fuels her actions throughout the story.
Another important theme explored in Golden Exits is the prevailing anxiety and insecurity that plague the characters, intensified by the relentless influence of social media, where it often seems that everyone else is leading a more glamorous life. As Perry reflects, > “I didn’t have a master plan, but I had some ideas, and now I’m just kind of confused because it feels like the last three years have just kind of slipped away.”
The film’s title encapsulates Sam’s yearning for optimal exits from relationships—an ideal that remains elusive amidst the bonds of family life. Naomi’s departure from New York marks the conclusion of her internship and brings the narrative full circle, culminating in pivotal conversations between Nick and Alyssa, as well as Buddy and Jess, as they attempt to mend their relationships in the wake of change.
Timeline
Naomi arrives in Carroll Gardens
Naomi, a 25-year-old Australian intern, moves to the vibrant Carroll Gardens neighborhood of Brooklyn. Her arrival introduces a new dynamic that begins to affect both families living in the area, as she is connected to each through various relationships.
Family interactions change
As Naomi integrates into the community, the existing relationships within the two families start to shift. Both Nick and Buddy begin to consider their potential relationships with her, causing tension and introspection among their partners, Alyssa and Jess.
Alyssa and Jess's reactions
Alyssa and Jess, aware of the attention Naomi garners from their significant others, navigate their insecurities regarding love and relationships. Their different perspectives highlight the contrasting views on marriage and the effects of Naomi's presence on their lives.
Gwen and Sam's involvement
Naomi's presence does not only affect the romantic dynamics but also pulls into the fray Gwen and Sam, the sisters of Nick and Buddy, respectively. Each sister's concerns and insecurities come to the forefront, further complicating the relationships within the families.
Naomi as an enigmatic force
Naomi is portrayed as a disruptive force and an 'obscure object of desire', symbolizing lost youth and possibilities. She is fully aware of the impact she has on the group, which influences her actions throughout the film.
Social media influences
The characters grapple with feelings of anxiety and insecurity, often exacerbated by social media which presents an illusion of glamorous lives. This pervasive comparison fuels their inner turmoil and fear of not measuring up to perceived ideals.
Perry's reflection
Perry reflects on his life, mentioning that he feels confused and that the last three years seem to have 'slipped away'. This moment of introspection emphasizes the theme of lost time and the clarity that Naomi's influence brings to their lives.
Sam's yearnings
The title *Golden Exits* encapsulates Sam's yearning for perfect exits from her relationships, highlighting her struggles to find closure and meaningful connections. Her desires illustrate the broader theme of seeking fulfillment amidst familial bonds.
Naomi's internship concludes
As the story unfolds, the time comes for Naomi's internship to end, marking a significant turning point for all characters involved. The impending changes prompt them to reassess their relationships and navigate the emotional fallout of her departure.
Conversations between Nick and Alyssa
In the wake of Naomi's departure, Nick and Alyssa find themselves engaging in crucial discussions about their relationship. These conversations reveal their vulnerabilities and the impact of Naomi's presence on their bond as they try to mend what's been altered.
Conversations between Buddy and Jess
Similarly, Buddy and Jess also confront the changes in their relationship catalyzed by Naomi's influence. Their discussions mirror those of Nick and Alyssa, as they attempt to reconnect and understand the shifts in their own emotional landscapes.
Naomi's departure
Naomi's departure from New York serves as the climax of the film. It not only concludes her journey but also forces the other characters to confront their feelings and choices, ultimately bringing the story full circle.
Characters
Alyssa (Chloë Sevigny)
Alyssa exhibits vulnerability as she grapples with her feelings about relationships and her family's dynamics. Her awareness of the shifts caused by Naomi compels her to assess her own desires and insecurities about love and loyalty.
Buddy (Jason Schwartzman)
Buddy is a complex character who contemplates his relationship potential with Naomi. His actions and thoughts are shaped by both his longing for connection and his fear of instability brought by her presence.
Naomi (Emily Browning)
Naomi serves as a catalyst for change within the families, embodying the allure of youth and possibilities. Her self-awareness and impact on others underline her role as a 'disruptive force' in the narrative, evoking varied reactions from those around her.
Setting
Time period
The movie does not specify a particular time period, but contemporary elements are evident through the characters' interactions and references to social media. It captures the complexities of modern relationships in an ever-evolving social landscape.
Location
Carroll Gardens, Brooklyn
Carroll Gardens is a vibrant neighborhood located in Brooklyn, known for its picturesque brownstones and tree-lined streets. The area is celebrated for its rich Italian-American heritage and a strong sense of community, providing a backdrop that highlights the personal dynamics and relationships among families.
Themes
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Relationships
The film intricately explores the ups and downs of familial and romantic relationships, focusing on the disruptions caused by Naomi's arrival. Each character grapples with insecurity and desire as they navigate their connections and the search for personal fulfillment.
📱
Social Anxiety
A prevalent theme is the anxiety stemming from social media and its impact on self-perception. The characters often compare their lives to an idealized version of others, which intensifies their worries about love, life choices, and societal expectations.
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Change
The film captures the theme of change as it follows Naomi's internship and the resulting impact on the established relationships within the families. As she departs from New York, the characters confront their past decisions and future paths, reflecting on growth and transition.
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