Directed by
Greg Mottola
Discover the intricate plot of Keeping Up with the Joneses (2016). From unexpected twists to emotional highs and lows, this detailed summary breaks down every moment to give you a deeper understanding of the film’s story.
Jeff Gaffney, portrayed by Zach Galifianakis, is a devoted Human Resources employee at McDowell-Burton International (MBI). He lives a seemingly normal life with his wife, Karen, and their two children who are off at sleep-away camp. Their tranquility takes a turn when they buy a new home in a quiet cul-de-sac, overseen by their quirky neighbors, Dan and Meg Craverston. The couple’s life is further complicated by the arrival of the charming Joneses—Tim and Natalie—who seem to be an enviable couple filled with fascinating interests.
During the initial meet and greet, Tim shares that he is a travel writer and Natalie discusses her impressive social media career while claiming to be an advocate for Sri Lankan orphans. Curiosity piqued and feeling slightly unnerved by Natalie’s confidence, Karen decides to follow her to the mall but finds herself caught in a rather awkward situation when she is discovered by Natalie in a dressing room. Meanwhile, Tim invites Jeff to bond over dinner, although their attempt at friendship involves dubious activities like snake wine and dining in a Chinese restaurant, which Jeff ultimately dismisses in favor of the more exhilarating prospect of indoor skydiving.
Things take a dramatic turn when Tim and Natalie break into MBI HQ, uncovering a suspicious email that was sent from Jeff’s computer to an international arms dealer known as Scorpion. As the plot thickens, Jeff inadvertently shatters a beautiful glass sculpture gifted by Tim, only to discover a spying device hidden within. Alarmed by this revelation, the couple decides to reckon with the Joneses and investigate further. They sneakily enter the Joneses’ home, yet Jeff’s blunder with a pen gun leads to some unforeseen chaos.
With miscommunication and danger escalating, they seek advice from MBI advisor Carl Pronger, but before he can provide crucial information, a sniper silences him, leading to a high-stakes chase that intertwines the fates of both families. It’s soon revealed that the Joneses are undercover agents, and their mission involves foiling the nefarious plans of the Scorpion—a shadowy figure intent on wreaking havoc. Amidst the confusion, the Gaffneys learn that the Craverstons are also entangled in this web of espionage.
As intrigue and excitement mount, misidentified secrets and double-crossings culminate in an explosive standoff wherein Karen ingeniously aids the agents by passing a knife to Natalie in a moment of passionate distraction. The ensuing escape is calculated, yet perilous, culminating in an emotional explosion as the true identity of the Scorpion, later revealed to be Bruce Springstine, is uncovered.
Fast forward a year, Jeff and Karen enjoy a leisurely visit at Hazim’s Cafe in Marrakesh, only to cross paths with the Joneses again. They learn that the agents have decided to leave their former lives behind. However, peace is fleeting as they soon find themselves embroiled in an unexpected shootout, highlighting the fact that the life of a spy is never truly over, leaving viewers fascinated and on edge.
Track the key events of Keeping Up with the Joneses (2016) with a comprehensive timeline. Perfect for understanding the sequence of major plot points, this feature offers clarity on how the story unfolds.
Jeff's Perfect Life
Jeff Gaffney is introduced as a devoted Human Resources employee at McDowell-Burton International. He lives a seemingly normal life with his wife, Karen, and their two children who are away at sleep-away camp, setting the stage for the drama to come.
Moving to the Cul-de-Sac
The Gaffneys buy a new home in a quiet cul-de-sac, marking the beginning of their new life. The couple is excited but unaware of the quirky dynamics and secrets their new neighbors, the Craverstons, might hold.
Meeting the Joneses
The tranquil life of the Gaffneys is disrupted by the arrival of the charming Joneses—Tim and Natalie. Their seemingly enviable life and impressive interests pique Jeff and Karen’s curiosity.
The Initial Meet and Greet
During their first meeting, Tim shares that he is a travel writer while Natalie discusses her social media career as an advocate for Sri Lankan orphans. This encounter leaves Karen feeling unnerved by Natalie's confidence.
Karen's Observations
Intrigued by Natalie, Karen follows her to the mall, resulting in an embarrassing discovery in a dressing room. This incident heightens the tension and mystery surrounding the Joneses.
Dinner with Tim
Tim invites Jeff for dinner, which unfolds into an awkward evening filled with dubious activities such as tasting snake wine. Jeff ultimately dismisses these antics in favor of the adventure of indoor skydiving.
Entering MBI HQ
Tim and Natalie break into MBI HQ, where they uncover a suspicious email sent from Jeff's computer to an international arms dealer known as Scorpion. This startling revelation sets the plot in motion.
Discovery of the Spying Device
While attempting to reconcile with the Joneses, Jeff inadvertently breaks a glass sculpture only to find a spying device hidden within it. Alarmed, the couple decides to investigate further.
Investigating the Joneses
The Gaffneys sneakily enter the Joneses' home to gather information, but Jeff's mistake with a pen gun leads to chaos. This sets a tense tone as misunderstandings begin to spiral out of control.
Seeking Help from Carl Pronger
In desperation, Jeff and Karen seek advice from MBI advisor Carl Pronger. However, their plans take a dark turn when a sniper silences Carl before he can provide the critical information they need.
The Undercover Reveal
As the tension escalates, it is revealed that the Joneses are undercover agents working to thwart the Scorpion's dangerous plans. The growing danger intertwines the fates of both families in unexpected ways.
Double-Crossing and Standoff
With secrets and miscommunication rampant, a dramatic standoff ensues where Karen plays a heroic role by passing a knife to Natalie, aiding the agents in their escape. The scene climaxes in high tension and action.
Unmasking the Scorpion
As the escape unfolds, the true identity of the Scorpion is revealed to be none other than Bruce Springsteen. This shocking twist adds an unexpected layer to the unfolding espionage.
A Year Later
Fast forward a year, Jeff and Karen enjoy a quiet moment at Hazim's Cafe in Marrakesh. Their peace is short-lived as they unexpectedly run into the Joneses, leading to a rekindling of old connections.
The Unexpected Shootout
Though the Joneses are moving on from their spy lives, danger finds the Gaffneys once again. They are suddenly caught in a new shootout, reminding them that the life of a spy is never truly over.
Meet the characters that bring Keeping Up with the Joneses (2016) to life. Dive into detailed profiles of the cast and their roles, exploring their motivations, relationships, and arcs within the story.
Jeff Gaffney (Zach Galifianakis)
Jeff Gaffney is a devoted father and HR employee who epitomizes the ordinary man thrust into extraordinary circumstances. His character evolves from a complacent suburbanite to an active participant in a web of espionage, showcasing his courage and adaptability. Jeff's determination to protect his family pushes him to confront danger, proving to be more resourceful than initially perceived.
Karen (Isla Fisher)
Karen is Jeff's supportive wife, who initially embodies the archetype of a typical suburban mom. However, her character reveals depth through her curiosity and bravery, especially when she follows Natalie to gain insight into the mysterious new neighbors. Karen's quick thinking during a high-stakes moment showcases her inner strength and resourcefulness, revealing her as a pivotal character in the story.
Tim Jones (Jon Hamm)
Tim Jones exudes charm and charisma, initially appearing as the perfect neighbor. As revelations about his true identity unfold, he transforms into a complex character with layers of intrigue. His role as an undercover agent brings tension to Jeff's life, but also serves as a catalyst for Jeff's unexpected growth in the face of danger.
Natalie Jones (Gal Gadot)
Natalie Jones is a strong and confident woman whose assertiveness draws Karen's curiosity from the outset. As an undercover agent, her social media savvy and alluring persona conceal her true mission. Natalie's partnership with Tim highlights themes of teamwork and deception, as she navigates both domestic and dangerous spheres while proving to be a fierce ally.
Uncover the settings of Keeping Up with the Joneses (2016), from iconic locations to the time period that shapes its world. See how these elements add depth and context to the movie’s narrative.
Time period
The movie maintains a contemporary setting, focusing on modern issues such as social media influence, covert operations, and the intricacies of suburban life. The timeline reflects typical family dynamics, intertwined with elements of espionage that disrupt normality, creating a juxtaposition between ordinary life and secretive adventures.
Location
Marrakesh, cul-de-sac, MBI HQ
The story unfolds in a peaceful cul-de-sac where the Gaffney family resides, characterized by its seemingly serene environment and eccentric neighbors. The narrative also traverses to MBI HQ, the corporate center where intrigue and espionage reach their peak. Finally, the bustling cafe in Marrakesh serves as a backdrop for both reflection and unexpected danger, showcasing the global aspect of the characters' lives.
Explore the core themes of Keeping Up with the Joneses (2016). From its commentary on social issues to its emotional undertones, delve into the deeper messages woven into the film’s story.
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Espionage
The theme of espionage is central to the plot, as both the Joneses and the Craverstons are revealed to be undercover agents. This theme highlights the contrast between mundane suburban life and the thrilling yet dangerous world of spies. The narrative delves into the complexities of trust and deception, as characters navigate misunderstandings and hidden motives.
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Family
Family dynamics play a significant role in the film, showing the Gaffney's relationships and their reactions to unexpected challenges. The love and loyalty between Jeff and Karen are tested against the backdrop of danger and deception. Ultimately, the film shows how families adapt and rely on each other in crises, fostering unity amidst chaos.
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