I Want Someone to Eat Cheese With 2007
Made by
IFC Films
Plot Summary
James, a struggling improv actor affiliated with Second City, faces the uphill battle of managing his weight, battling depression, and feeling stuck in life in the vibrant city of Chicago. Despite his attempts to sneak in indulgences on his diet, the weight of his insecurities drags him down further. After an embarrassing stunt on his TV prank show, which leads to its abrupt end, he finds himself in a state of disarray.
The fallout is immediate and painful: his girlfriend Andrea cuts ties, and his agent, Herb, no longer represents him. The final straw occurs when he makes a fool of himself during Career Day at an elementary school, where he shares his personal struggles, much to his dismay, in front of the teacher, Stella.
Seeking solace, James often parks his car outside Wrigley Field as the sun sets, enjoying the picturesque views and reflecting on his life. By day, he wanders Chicago’s North Side alongside his friend Luca, who encourages him with the beauty of their surroundings.
Everything shifts one day when James, dressed as a pirate for a hot dog stand, serendipitously learns about a local remake of his favorite film, Marty (1955). Although he knows the director, his attempt to secure an audition falls flat. Defeated, he leaves a Compulsive Eaters Anonymous meeting and finds himself indulging in ice cream to find comfort.
It is here that Beth enters his life—an alluring woman who recognizes him from Second City and offers him complimentary ice cream. While conversing, Beth poses a quirky question, explaining it thoughtfully, which captivates James. As romance blossoms, Beth invites him on adventures, including a shopping spree where she tries on underwear.
Their relationship flourishes with Beth attending one of James’ comedy shows and daring to visit his apartment, shared with his mother. As the chemistry builds, she offers to return to his place, indicating their relationship is deepening.
However, as events unfold, it becomes clear Beth has reservations—she admits she has never been with someone of James’ stature before, leading to heartbreak when she turns him away the next day, feeling unprepared for the relationship’s demands. The situation worsens when James discovers that the role he coveted in Marty has been snatched by teen heartthrob Aaron Carter.
As the narrative progresses, James starts to embark on a new journey in his life. He moves into his own apartment, rekindles a connection with Stella, and continues to chase his acting dreams, demonstrating resilience in the face of adversity.
Timeline
James Faces Struggles
James, a struggling improv actor in Chicago, deals with multiple personal challenges including weight management and depression. Despite his affiliation with Second City, he feels increasingly stuck in life, weighed down by insecurities.
The TV Show Incident
An embarrassing incident occurs during James' appearance on a TV prank show, leading to the abrupt cancellation of the program. This moment propels him further into disarray, exacerbating his feelings of inadequacy.
Breakup with Andrea
Following the incident, James experiences immediate fallout in his personal life as his girlfriend Andrea decides to end the relationship. This breakup adds to his emotional turmoil and sense of isolation.
Loss of Representation
James' agent, Herb, chooses to discontinue their professional relationship, further aggravating his sense of failure. With both personal and professional ties severed, he feels more lost than ever.
Career Day Embarrassment
During an elementary school Career Day event, James shares his personal struggles and feels humiliated by his vulnerability. The reactions from the students and teacher, Stella, deepen his sense of shame.
Reflections at Wrigley Field
Seeking solace, James often finds himself parked outside Wrigley Field, watching the sunset. These moments of reflection become a therapeutic escape for him as he contemplates his life choices and aspirations.
Exploring Chicago
James spends his days wandering the North Side of Chicago with his friend Luca. Together, they explore the city's beauty, which serves as a temporary distraction from his inner turmoil.
Pirate Costume Revelation
While dressed as a pirate for a hot dog stand, James learns about a local remake of his favorite film, *Marty*. Desiring to audition, he knows the director but his efforts to secure a role fail, leaving him feeling disheartened.
Comfort in Ice Cream
After a disappointing meeting at Compulsive Eaters Anonymous, James indulges in ice cream to soothe his emotions. It is at this low point that he encounters Beth, who recognizes him from Second City.
Meeting Beth
James meets Beth, who charms him with her conversation and a thoughtful question during their ice cream outing. This interaction marks the beginning of a romantic connection that helps brighten his outlook.
Adventures with Beth
As their relationship develops, Beth takes James on memorable outings, including a playful shopping spree. These moments help James rediscover joy and companionship amid his struggles.
Beth Attends a Show
Beth supports James by attending one of his comedy performances, deepening their bond. Her presence is a significant boost to James' confidence as he navigates his acting career.
Beth’s Hesitations
Beth expresses concern about their relationship, revealing she has never been with someone of James' stature. This revelation leads to tension, climaxes with her turning him away, causing James heartbreak.
Dream Role Snatched
James is devastated to learn that the role in the remake of *Marty*, which he deeply desired, has been taken by Kevin Carter, a popular teen heartthrob. This news compounds his feelings of inadequacy and disappointment.
A New Beginning
Determined to forge a new path, James decides to move into his own apartment and reconnect with Stella. This marks a pivotal moment in his journey as he recommits to pursuing his acting dreams with renewed resilience.
Characters
James
James is a struggling improv actor who grapples with weight, depression, and feelings of stagnation in his life. His character embodies the challenges of balancing ambition with personal insecurities, ultimately showcasing resilience as he navigates various setbacks.
Beth
Beth is an alluring woman who recognizes James from his improv background. Her character adds depth to the story as she encourages and challenges James, yet is also confronted by her own fears of intimacy and the complexities of their relationship.
Andrea
Andrea is James's girlfriend who ultimately cuts ties due to his struggles and perceived failures. Her role highlights the impact of personal challenges on relationships and serves as a catalyst for James's transformation.
Stella
Stella is a teacher who witnesses James's vulnerabilities during his Career Day appearance. Her character represents the outside perspective on James’s struggles and provides a point of reflection for his character growth.
Luca
Luca is James's friend who helps him navigate through life's ups and downs. He embodies friendship, supporting James as he seeks beauty and hope in their surroundings while dealing with his personal challenges.
Setting
Time period
The movie takes place in a contemporary setting, focusing on the struggles of a modern individual navigating personal and professional challenges. It highlights the complexities of life in today's fast-paced society.
Location
Chicago, Wrigley Field
Chicago is a vibrant city known for its rich cultural scene and iconic architecture. Wrigley Field, one of the oldest ballparks in the U.S., represents a staple of American sports culture and serves as a place of reflection for James.
Themes
💔
Heartbreak
The theme of heartbreak is evident as James faces rejection in both his professional and romantic life. His struggles with relationships showcase the emotional pain that often accompanies personal growth and self-discovery.
🎭
Performance
As an improv actor, James's life is a continual performance where he grapples with his identity and self-worth. The movie delves into the pressures of performance both on stage and in everyday life, highlighting his journey towards authenticity.
🍦
Comfort
Food serves as a symbol of comfort for James during his struggles. His relationship with food reflects deeper issues of insecurity and depression, weaving a narrative about seeking solace in indulgence amidst life's challenges.
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