Between Two Ferns: The Movie 2019

Comedy

Runtime

82 min

Language

English

Directed by

Scott Aukerman

Made by

Netflix

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Plot Summary

Read the complete plot summary and ending explained for Between Two Ferns: The Movie (2019). From turning points to emotional moments, uncover what really happened and why it matters.

Zach Galifianakis takes center stage as the eccentric host of his public access television show, Between Two Ferns. The whimsical journey begins when the comedic powerhouse, Will Ferrell, stumbles upon the show and gives it a boost by uploading it to Funny or Die. This unexpected exposure catapults Zach into the limelight, transforming him into a viral sensation, much to the delight of audiences who tune in daily, enchanted by his unique, albeit misguided, interviewing style.

In one fateful interview with Matthew McConaughey, chaos unfolds when Zach accidentally triggers a sprinkler system, leading to an unforeseen calamity that floods the studio. In a twist of comedic fate, this wild incident not only results in Matthew taking a deep dive but also creates an upward trajectory for Zach’s career—though Matthew is safely resuscitated afterward.

As a byproduct of this hilarious debacle, viewership skyrockets, prompting Will to extend a lucrative offer to Zach: produce ten episodes within two weeks and ascend to the role of president at Funny or Die. Brimming with ambition and dreams of hosting his own talk show, Zach eagerly agrees, embarking on a road trip filled with both hilarity and heartwarming interactions with his crew.

During their adventurous travels, Zach forges meaningful bonds with his crew members, but financial woes begin to loom large. The star-studded lineup of interviewees he encounters includes luminaries such as David Letterman, Paul Rudd, Chrissy Teigen, John Legend, Jon Hamm, Hailee Steinfeld, Tiffany Haddish, Benedict Cumberbatch, and Tessa Thompson. Amidst this glamorous backdrop, a series of comical mishaps unfold, including a cheeky affair with Chrissy Teigen when [Jake Gyllenhaal]‘s flight cancellation leads to awkward moments during their interview.

Facing financial difficulties due to extravagant expenditures, Zach’s manager, Carol, resorts to desperate measures by pilfering priceless Fabergé eggs from [Peter Dinklage] during an interview, hoping to sell them to fund their journey back to Los Angeles.

The road back is anything but uneventful, as Zach’s propensity for distraction leads to a car accident while he juggles reading emails. Unfortunately, this accident spells disaster for his beloved ferns, as they meet an untimely end. Despite the tension and disagreements with his crew, the group manages to reconcile upon their triumphant return to Los Angeles, successfully clinching the deal with Will.

In a moment of celebratory joy, Zach learns that he will be gifted four new ferns and eagerly jumps into the premiere of his new show, Ferns with Zach Galifianakis. Within the span of a month, his show becomes a national hit, but as critiques begin pouring in regarding the show’s lack of charm and unique flair, Zach faces hard truths. Ultimately, he decides to pull the plug on the show, choosing camaraderie with his crew over fleeting fame, not before two of his new ferns meet their own misfortune in a car incident. Thus, the tale of Zach’s comedic exploits culminates in laughter, lessons learned, and chaotic charm that lingers on.

Timeline

Follow the complete movie timeline of Between Two Ferns: The Movie (2019) with every major event in chronological order. Great for understanding complex plots and story progression.

Zach Hosts Between Two Ferns

Zach Galifianakis launches his quirky public access TV show, 'Between Two Ferns'. The show quickly gains notoriety due to its unique format and Zach's unconventional interviewing style, setting the stage for his unexpected rise to fame.

Will Ferrell Discovers the Show

Will Ferrell stumbles upon 'Between Two Ferns' and sees its potential. He uploads clips from Zach's show on Funny or Die, which propels Zach into the limelight, transforming him from an obscure host to a viral celebrity overnight.

The Flood Incident

During an interview with Matthew McConaughey, Zach inadvertently activates the sprinkler system, causing a massive water leak. The flooding incident nearly drowns Matthew, although he is later revived, attracting even more viewers to the show.

Interview Room

Zach's New Opportunity

With the flood going viral, Will Ferrell offers Zach a chance to produce ten new episodes within two weeks. Eager to fulfill his dream of hosting a talk show, Zach eagerly accepts the offer and embarks on a cross-country road trip.

Successful Road Trip

Zach and his crew set off on their road trip, successfully interviewing numerous celebrities including David Letterman and Paul Rudd. The chemistry between the crew deepens as they bond over their shared experiences despite the challenges they face.

Affair with Chrissy Teigen

During an attempt to interview Chrissy Teigen, Zach's plans take an unexpected turn when an absent Jake Gyllenhaal messes up his flight. This leads to an affair with Chrissy, which complicates Zach's personal life and professional reputation.

Mace Incident with John Legend

Zach's actions during the affair provoke backlash when John Legend learns of it. In a fit of anger, John sprays Zach with mace, showcasing the chaos and explosive emotions surrounding Zach's personal choices while on the road.

Manager's Desperate Measures

Struggling with finances due to their extravagant road trip activities, Zach's manager Carol resorts to drastic actions. She steals precious Fabergé eggs from an interview with Peter Dinklage, intending to sell them to fund their return to Los Angeles.

Peter Dinklage's Interview

Driving Accident

While attempting to multitask by reading emails, Zach causes a serious accident that results in the destruction of his two cherished ferns. This incident serves as a wake-up call as he realizes the impact of his distracted driving on his team and belongings.

On the Road

Reconciliation with Crew

After a rocky period filled with tension, Zach manages to reconcile with his crew upon their return to Los Angeles. Their bond strengthens as they navigate the challenges together and ultimately secure their deal with Funny or Die.

Celebrating New Ferns

Zach learns that as part of his new deal, he will receive four new ferns. Excited for a fresh start, he celebrates this milestone as he prepares to launch his new talk show, 'Ferns with Zach Galifianakis.'

Launch of Ferns with Zach Galifianakis

Zach's new talk show debuts to great anticipation and quickly becomes a national sensation. Viewers tune in to watch his unique style and catchphrases, only further solidifying his place in the entertainment industry.

Within a month

Criticism from Crew

Despite initial success, Zach's crew starts to voice their concerns regarding the show's lack of charm and personality. Feeling the pressure of the critiques, Zach faces a crossroads in his career as he contemplates the future of his show.

Cancellation of Talk Show

In a surprising turn, Zach decides to cancel 'Ferns with Zach Galifianakis' due to the feedback from his crew. He prioritizes his relationship with them over the show's success, highlighting the importance of teamwork and mutual support.

Final Incident with New Ferns

As Zach prepares to leave with his crew, an unfortunate accident occurs when two of his newly acquired ferns are destroyed by a passing car. This chaotic ending serves as a symbolic farewell to the journey they've had together.

Characters

Explore all characters from Between Two Ferns: The Movie (2019). Get detailed profiles with their roles, arcs, and key relationships explained.

Zach Galifianakis

Zach is an eccentric and comedic host known for his dry humor and awkward interview style. His character embarks on a journey of self-discovery, wrestling with the challenges of fame and the pressures of meeting expectations. Despite his mishaps, Zach displays growth as he learns valuable lessons about friendship, creativity, and the importance of authenticity.

🎤 Host 🤪 Comedian 🌱 Growth

Will Ferrell

Will Ferrell plays a pivotal role as the character who discovers Zach's show and elevates it to virality. His larger-than-life personality adds humor to the narrative, and he serves as both a mentor and a catalyst for change in Zach's life. His character embodies the excitement and unpredictability of the entertainment industry.

🎬 Producer ☀️ Mentor 😂 Humor

Carol (Lauren Lapkus)

Carol is Zach's manager, who showcases loyalty and pragmatism amidst the chaos of the road trip. Her willingness to take drastic measures, such as stealing Fabergé eggs, highlights the lengths she will go to ensure their success. Carol's character adds depth to the narrative, illustrating the balance between ambition and ethics.

🤝 Manager 🏃‍♀️ Loyalty 🔍 Conflict

Setting

Learn where and when Between Two Ferns: The Movie (2019) takes place. Explore the film’s settings, era, and how they shape the narrative.

Time period

The events in the movie unfold in contemporary times, reflecting the modern landscape of viral fame and the ever-evolving nature of media consumption. It showcases the challenges faced by creators in the digital age, as they balance humor with the pressures of success, popularity, and creative integrity.

Location

Los Angeles, Public Access TV Studio, Road

The movie takes place primarily in Los Angeles, the heart of the entertainment industry, known for its film studios and celebrity culture. The Public Access TV Studio serves as the backdrop for Zach's unique show, where he interviews various celebrities in a quirky and comedic manner. The road trip represents the journey of growth and discovery, as Zach and his crew navigate through different locations while attempting to achieve their dreams.

🎥 Hollywood 🚗 Road Trip 📺 Television

Themes

Discover the main themes in Between Two Ferns: The Movie (2019). Analyze the deeper meanings, emotional layers, and social commentary behind the film.

🌟

Fame

The pursuit of fame is a central theme in the film, focusing on how it can be both a blessing and a curse. Zach's accidental rise to viral status highlights the unpredictability of internet fame, as well as the pressures that come with it. Ultimately, the movie explores the desire for recognition and the impact it has on personal relationships and creativity.

💔

Friendship

Friendship plays a crucial role in the narrative, with Zach's relationships with his crew evolving throughout their journey. Despite facing challenges and conflicts, they learn to rely on one another and grow closer, emphasizing the importance of teamwork and mutual support. The film showcases how true friendships can endure even amid chaos and misunderstanding.

🎭

Identity

The theme of identity is explored through Zach's character as he navigates his role as a host and the expectations that come with it. His struggles with authenticity and the pressure to maintain a public persona are central to his character development. The film ultimately illustrates the necessity of staying true to oneself amidst external pressures.

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