The Boss 2016
Directed by
Ben Falcone
Made by
Universal Pictures
Plot Summary
Discover the intricate plot of The Boss (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.
Michelle Darnell, portrayed by Melissa McCarthy, had a tough childhood as an orphan, being rejected by every family that tried to adopt her. Overcoming her tumultuous past, she rises to become the CEO of numerous companies, earning her place as the 47th richest woman in the world. Working alongside her is Claire Rawlings, played by Kristen Bell, her dedicated PA who handles various tasks, often at the mercy of Michelle’s demanding nature regarding a much-deserved raise. Michelle also has a driver named Tito, played by Cedric Yarbrough.
The story takes a twist when Michelle faces off against her business rival, Renault, portrayed by Peter Dinklage, with whom she shares a complicated history. Renault’s resentment stems from a time in the 90s when Michelle undermined him to secure a promotion. The situation escalates when Renault accuses her of insider trading after she blocks his acquisition plans by buying shares of his target company. This confrontation leads to Michelle’s arrest by the SEC and the collapse of her empire.
After a five-month stint in prison, Michelle emerges with nowhere to turn. Claire, fed up with her new micromanaging boss Dana Dandridge, played by Cecily Strong, reluctantly allows Michelle to stay at her home after her daughter Rachel, portrayed by Ella Anderson, insists on helping the fallen titan. With a tarnished reputation and no allies left, as Renault has successfully undermined her support network, Michelle finds herself living with Claire and her family for over three weeks. Claire eventually proposes that Michelle help with household chores to contribute her share.
As Michelle tries to find her footing, she stumbles upon a local Dandelions cookies meeting and discovers that the company exploits schoolgirls for sales under the guise of supporting social causes. Inspired, Michelle proposes a new initiative called Michelle’s Darlings, where young girls can earn funds for their college education by selling cookies. Initially, the venture starts off slowly, but it picks up momentum and begins to generate solid profits. Michelle persuades Claire to fully commit to the cookie project, which leads them to recruit girls away from the Dandelions to sell Claire’s baked goods.
However, tensions flare between Michelle and Claire as they grow closer, prompting Michelle to step back from their lives. Utilizing capital from her mentor Ida Marquette, played by Kathy Bates, Michelle opens a commercial kitchen to scale up their production. Misinterpretations arise when Michelle discovers Claire in conversation with Renault, leading to a significant falling out. Accusing Claire of betrayal, she decides to sell the cookie business to Renault, leaving Claire and the girls devastated.
After some soul-searching, Michelle feels an overwhelming sense of regret and reconciles with Claire and Rachel. She plans to reclaim the signed contract with Renault, and as they stealthily infiltrate his office, a surprising encounter unfolds. In the midst of a confrontation, Michelle engages in an intense duel with Renault, eventually culminating in an unexpected kiss. Ultimately, Claire tears up the contract as they move forward, and eight months later, they celebrate their success in their new home, funded by the flourishing cookie business.
Timeline
Track the key events of The Boss (2016) with a comprehensive timeline. Perfect for understanding the sequence of major plot points, this feature offers clarity on how the story unfolds.
Michelle's Tough Childhood
Michelle Darnell, as an orphan, faced rejection from every family that tried to adopt her, which laid the foundation for her tenacity and ambition. This challenging upbringing shaped her character and drive to succeed in the business world.
Rise to Power
Against all odds, Michelle rises to become the CEO of multiple companies. Through her fierce determination and business acumen, she secures her position as the 47th richest woman in the world.
Complicated Rivalry
Michelle's rivalry with Renault begins to fester, rooted in a personal history from the 90s where she previously undermined him to gain a promotion. This backdrop of competition fuels their animosity as they face off in the business world.
Accusations and Arrest
Tensions escalate when Renault accuses Michelle of insider trading after she thwarts his acquisition plans. The SEC intervenes, leading to Michelle's arrest and the subsequent collapse of her business empire.
Time in Prison
Following her arrest, Michelle spends five months in prison, reflecting on her life choices and the consequences of her actions. Upon her release, she finds herself without a home or support, facing the fallout of her previous decisions.
Seeking Refuge
After her release, Michelle is welcomed into the home of Claire, her former PA, who is feeling overwhelmed by her new boss. Michelle stays with Claire and her family as she tries to rebuild her life and reputation.
Ideas for Redemption
While struggling to adjust, Michelle attends a local Dandelions cookies meeting and discovers unethical practices in their sales approach. This revelation inspires her to create a new initiative, Michelle's Darlings, aimed at empowering young girls to sell cookies.
Launching Michelle's Darlings
Michelle's Darlings begins slowly, but with hard work and commitment, they start to gain traction and generate impressive profits. This venture provides a new focus for Michelle and offers hope for her future.
Conflict with Claire
As Michelle and Claire grow closer through their business efforts, tensions rise between them. Misunderstandings drive a wedge in their relationship, leading Michelle to reconsider her role in Claire's life.
Opening a Commercial Kitchen
With the support of her mentor Ida, Michelle opens a commercial kitchen to boost cookie production. This move signals her serious commitment to the business and her desire to regain her entrepreneurial spirit.
Betrayal and Falling Out
Michelle misinterprets a conversation between Claire and Renault as a betrayal. Hurt and angry, she decides to sell the cookie business to her rival, resulting in heartbreak for Claire and the young girls they have worked so hard to support.
Realization of Regret
After taking time to reflect on her choices, Michelle feels deep regret for abandoning Claire and the project. She finds the courage to reconcile, urging Claire and Rachel to join her in reclaiming their dreams and ambitions.
Confrontation with Renault
Michelle orchestrates a stealthy return to Renault's office to confront him about the contract. An intense showdown ensues that culminates in a surprising moment: a passionate kiss that rekindles old feelings and conflicts.
Tearing Up the Contract
In a powerful act of solidarity, Claire rips up the contract Michelle planned to rescind. Together, they embrace a new beginning as they decide to move forward with their plans, united in spirit and purpose.
Celebration of Success
Eight months later, Michelle and Claire celebrate their achievements in their new home, funded by the thriving cookie business. Their journey reflects resilience, friendship, and the power of second chances.
Characters
Meet the characters that bring The Boss (2016) to life. Dive into detailed profiles of the cast and their roles, exploring their motivations, relationships, and arcs within the story.
Michelle Darnell
Michelle Darnell is a fiercely ambitious woman created from a challenging upbringing. Despite her tough exterior, her character experiences significant growth throughout the story; she learns the value of friendship and community while trying to redeem herself after her fall from grace.
Claire Rawlings
Claire Rawlings is Michelle's dedicated assistant who often finds herself torn between her loyalty to Michelle and her own needs. She embodies compassion and practicality, growing increasingly empowered as she navigates her complicated relationship with Michelle.
Renault
Renault is Michelle's business rival, driven by a desire for revenge stemming from their past encounters. His character serves as a foil to Michelle, representing the darker side of ambition and the pitfalls of personal conflict in business.
Tito
Tito is Michelle's driver, a minor yet supportive character who adds humor to the narrative. He reflects the loyalty aspect of Michelle's life, portraying the value of support even during her least favorable moments.
Ida Marquette
Ida Marquette is Michelle’s mentor, representing the wisdom and guidance that can help one rise from the ashes. Her character bridges the gap between the corporate world and personal redemption, playing a vital role in Michelle's new venture.
Setting
Uncover the settings of The Boss (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
1990s, Present Day
The film's timeline spans two key periods: the past in the 1990s when Michelle's rivalry with Renault began and the present day, focusing on her journey after prison. The 90s are characterized by corporate ambition and cutthroat competition, while the present highlights themes of redemption, cooperation, and female empowerment.
Location
Local Community, Michelle's New Home
The movie primarily takes place in a local community where the story revolves around Michelle's humble beginnings and her rise and fall in the corporate world. Michelle's new home with Claire represents a place of refuge and growth, where the two women build a new venture together while navigating their complex relationship.
Themes
Explore the core themes of The Boss (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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Empowerment
Empowerment is a central theme of the movie, evident in Michelle's transformation from an orphan to a powerful CEO. Through her cookies initiative, she aims to uplift young girls, providing them with financial opportunities and life lessons, showcasing the strength and resilience found in community support.
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Friendship
The dynamics of friendship play a crucial role, particularly through Michelle and Claire's relationship. Their journey illustrates the challenges and strength found in their bond as they navigate betrayal, forgiveness, and ultimately, teamwork to rebuild their lives together.
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Business Rivalry
Business rivalry drives much of the plot, especially the intense competition between Michelle and Renault. This theme highlights the darker sides of ambition and the consequences of cutthroat tactics, ultimately leading Michelle to confront the impact of her past decisions.
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