
A greeting card writer named Larry Hubbard, played by Steve Martin, finds himself struggling to cope with a recent painful breakup. He navigates the challenges of loneliness and finds unexpected friendship with Warren, while also harboring an unrequited affection for Iris. When Larry's deeply personal memoir unexpectedly becomes a bestseller, he must then grapple with the complexities of newfound fame and ultimately discover the true essence of human connection.
Does The Lonely Guy have end credit scenes?
No!
The Lonely Guy does not have end credit scenes. You can leave when the credits roll.
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45
Metascore
5.6
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Challenge your knowledge of The Lonely Guy with this fun and interactive movie quiz. Test yourself on key plot points, iconic characters, hidden details, and memorable moments to see how well you really know the film.
What profession does Larry Hubbard have?
Novelist
Greeting card writer
Journalist
Poet
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Discover all the awards and nominations received by The Lonely Guy, from Oscars to film festival honors. Learn how The Lonely Guy and its cast and crew have been recognized by critics and the industry alike.
38th British Academy Film Awards 1985
Best Original Song
Read the complete plot summary of The Lonely Guy, including all major events, twists, and the full ending explained in detail. Explore key characters, themes, hidden meanings, and everything you need to understand the story from beginning to end.
As Larry Hubbard (portrayed by Steve Martin), a once-reclusive greeting card writer, navigates the emotional turbulence following a sudden breakup with his girlfriend Danielle, he embarks on an unforeseen journey of self-discovery. Along the way, he encounters Warren, another “lonely guy” wrestling with profound existential dilemmas and pondering an escape from his own reality.
Larry’s tumultuous interactions with women lead to a significant turning point when he crosses paths with Iris (played by [Marisa Tomei]). Iris, who has a tendency to attract fellow “lonely guys,” presents Larry with a chance for redemption, albeit after a series of comedic mishaps and close calls. When Warren finds himself spiraling into despair, Larry makes a heartfelt effort to intervene, leveraging his newfound connection with Iris to help his friend avoid tragedy. Their spontaneous meeting evolves into something more profound, but Iris’s latent fears begin to resurface, causing her to reassess their budding relationship.
As Larry channels his personal trials into successful literary endeavors, he unexpectedly catapults into the spotlight, transforming into an unlikely celebrity. However, this newfound fame amplifies the issues between him and Iris, who increasingly distances herself, burdened by the belief that she is unworthy of his affection. In a desperate attempt to rekindle their romance during a lavish cruise, Larry learns it’s already too late—Iris has found solace in the arms of another man, Jack.
In an ironic twist, Larry once again teeters on the brink of despair, contemplating a leap from the Queensboro Bridge in a drastic quest to reclaim his lost love. Yet, Warren’s sage advice resonates within him, reminding Larry that genuine happiness often lies in embracing the uncertainties of life. Destiny strikes a surprising chord when Iris reappears, plummeting from the same bridge into Larry’s waiting embrace. They share a deeply poignant moment, only to be interrupted by the appearance of Warren and his new partner, the famous relationship expert Dr. Joyce Brothers (Joyce Brothers).
As the four friends embark on a charming double date, Larry reflects on the uncanny twists of fate that have led him back to this point, recognizing that sometimes, to truly appreciate life’s splendor, one must take a leap of faith.
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