Matt and Mara 2024

Mara, a dedicated writing professor at TMU, finds herself rekindling a long-lost friendship with Matt Johnson, her former best friend from college. Living in the bustling New York City, Matt has recently achieved literary success with his new book and has returned to town to attend to his ailing father. Meanwhile, Mara, who once thrived as a passionate writer, has spent the years following her graduation immersed in teaching, having not penned a single word of her own for quite some time.

Despite her marriage, Mara agrees to spend quality time with Matt during his visit, which includes leisurely strolls through the city and cozy chats in quaint cafes. As they reconnect, she feels a spark of inspiration from Matt’s creative outlook, which prompts her to question her own artistic ambitions and fears.

In a pivotal moment, Mara requests Matt to drive her to Niagara Falls for a writing conference. The journey is charged with tension, ultimately culminating in an unexpected kiss shared against the breathtaking backdrop of the falls. Though this moment is fleeting, it forces Mara to confront the complexities of her emotions; she struggles to communicate her feelings and, overwhelmed by guilt, ends up clashing with Matt on their return trip.

Tragedy strikes when Mara receives a heartbreaking call informing her that Matt’s father has passed away. In a gesture of support, she helps him navigate through the difficult process of making funeral arrangements. After Matt returns to New York, Mara listens to a poignant song her musician husband has been developing. Later, she turns to Matt’s book, where she discovers a heartfelt note he wrote for her on the first page. After a moment of reflection, she gently places the book back on her shelf, contemplating the ripple effects of their reunion and the paths that lie ahead.