What Is Definitely, Maybe About?
The premise of Definitely, Maybe in 294 words, with nothing given away. The full story follows below.
In bustling New York City, Will Hayes is a charismatic advertising executive whose life has taken an unexpected turn when his marriage reaches its breaking point. As he packs away the familiar rhythms of his shared home, his curious ten‑year‑old daughter, Maya, asks the inevitable question that has lingered in the back of every family dinner: how did Mom and Dad first meet? Rather than give a straightforward answer, Will decides to turn the conversation into a gentle storytelling game, weaving together memories of the people who shaped his understanding of love and commitment.
The film’s tone balances light‑hearted humor with a tender, reflective mood, inviting the audience to linger on the warm, slightly chaotic world of a single‑parent household figuring out a new normal. Through Will’s recollections, the audience meets a trio of memorable women who each left a distinct imprint on his heart: the bright‑spirited April, whose independence and wit challenged his cynicism; the thoughtful Emily, whose connection to his past carries both nostalgia and unanswered questions; and the insightful Summer, whose charisma and ambition sparked both admiration and self‑examination. These characters are introduced through Will’s affectionate anecdotes, hinting at the complexities of early adulthood, career ambitions, and the messy, hopeful nature of romance.
As Maya listens, the story becomes a subtle lesson about the unpredictable pathways love can take and the resilience required to navigate them. The narrative’s gentle pacing and witty dialogue create an intimate atmosphere where the city’s energetic backdrop contrasts with the quiet moments of connection between father and daughter. By the film’s end, the audience is left with a lingering curiosity: will the stories Will tells lead to new possibilities, and how will Maya’s own view of love evolve amid the gentle unfolding of her family’s past?
What Happens in Definitely, Maybe?
The complete story of Definitely, Maybe, from the first scene to the last, in 493 words (about 2 minutes). Spoilers throughout. Names in the text link to 1 cast member page.
Spoilers ahead
Will Hayes, portrayed by Ryan Reynolds, is an advertising professional in bustling New York City who finds himself navigating the turbulent waters of a divorce from his estranged wife, Sarah (played by Elizabeth Banks). Their insightful 10-year-old daughter, Maya (Abigail Breslin), is curious about how her parents first met and prompts Will to share the story, but with a creative twist—he changes the names and key details, leaving Maya to guess who her mother is among the women of his past.
The tale commences in 1992, when Will, stepping away from Madison, Wisconsin, thinks back to his college romance with “Emily Jones” (also portrayed by Elizabeth Banks) while he embarks on his role in the Clinton campaign. In the vibrant campaign office, he encounters “April Hoffman” (Isla Fisher), a spirited co-worker who boasts her independence from party affiliations, playfully challenging Will’s cynical perspective on politicians. Will also becomes involved with “Summer Hartley” (Rachel Weisz), who, it turns out, had a brief affair with Emily during college—a revelation that comes to light when a package containing Summer’s diary finds its way to Will.
As the narrative unfolds, Will evolves from a mere coffee boy to making significant contributions within the campaign, earning him new responsibilities, and he begins to explore his feelings for April, who shares her tragic story of a lost inscribed copy of Jane Eyre, a cherished memento from her father. Their playful banter culminates in a kiss, but it ends abruptly when Emily arrives unexpectedly in New York, revealing her infidelity with Will’s roommate and urging him to move on.
Following Clinton’s victory, Will establishes a political consulting firm and maintains a connection with April even as he dates Summer, now a journalist. When Will learns that Summer’s upcoming article could devastate his candidate’s prospects, he conflicts with her, leading to the end of their romance and the collapse of his political aspirations.
Time passes, and a now-dejected Will is surprised when April, who is with someone new named Kevin, reaches out for a reunion. A birthday party reveals deep-seated emotions, with Will drunkenly admitting his love for April, resulting in a confrontation about their unfulfilling lives. A chance encounter in a bookstore yields the long-sought Jane Eyre, but Will hesitates to give it to April upon meeting her new partner.
When Summer informs him of her pregnancy, Will confronts their past, leading to an unexpected reunion with Emily. As Maya begins to piece together the puzzle of her parents’ past, she hopes for reconciliation. Yet, when the divorce is finalized, Will reassures her that their story has a happy ending.
While unpacking in his new space, Will stumbles upon April’s book and gathers the courage to return it. A miscommunication leads to initial resistance from April, but when he shares how much he has missed her, it spurs her to invite him and Maya in to hear the whole story, culminating in a heartfelt kiss that signifies a rekindled connection.
Definitely, Maybe Timeline: Every Key Event in Order
15 key events in the order they happen, from “Will Reflects on College Romance” to “The Rekindled Connection”. 3 events name a place, across 3 locations.
- 1
Will Reflects on College Romance
In 1992, Will Hayes steps away from Madison, Wisconsin, reminiscing about his college romance with 'Emily Jones', who is later revealed to be his estranged wife. This moment marks the beginning of Will’s journey as he reflects on his past and the choices that led him to his current situation.
When:1992
- 2
Encounter in the Campaign Office
While embarking on his role in the Clinton campaign, Will meets 'April Hoffman', a spirited independent co-worker. Their playful interactions challenge Will's cynical views about politicians and spark a growing interest in one another.
Where:Campaign Office
- 3
Will's Involvement with Summer
Will gets involved with 'Summer Hartley', who also shares a complicated history with Emily. This connection becomes significant when a diary belonging to Summer reveals details of her affair with Emily, complicating Will's emotions.
- 4
Professional Growth
As the campaign progresses, Will transitions from being a coffee boy to taking on significant responsibilities within the team. This evolution reflects his growing confidence and commitment to his political aspirations.
- 5
A Kiss with April
Will shares a poignant kiss with April, sealing their deepening connection. However, the moment is abruptly interrupted by the unexpected arrival of Emily, who reveals her betrayal, throwing Will's emotional state into turmoil.
Where:New York
- 6
Clinton's Victory
Following Bill Clinton's victory, Will establishes a political consulting firm. Despite his success, he finds himself entangled with April and Summer, navigating complex romantic relationships amidst his career growth.
- 7
Conflict with Summer
Will faces a conflict with Summer when he discovers that her upcoming article could jeopardize his candidate's standing. This tension ultimately leads to the unraveling of their relationship and Will's political dreams.
- 8
An Emotional Reunion
In a surprising turn, April reaches out to Will for a reunion, despite being with someone new. A birthday party serves as a catalyst for buried emotions to surface, culminating in Will's drunken confession of love for April.
- 9
The Bookstore Encounter
Will encounters April in a bookstore, hoping to return a long-sought copy of *Jane Eyre*. However, seeing her with her new partner causes him to hesitate, highlighting the complexities of their connection.
Where:Bookstore
- 10
Summer's Pregnancy Revelation
Summer confronts Will with the news of her pregnancy, prompting him to evaluate their shared history and feelings. This revelation leads to an unexpected reunion with Emily, further complicating Will's emotional landscape.
Show the other 5 events of Definitely, Maybe Hide the last 5 events
- 11
Maya's Curiosity
Will's daughter, Maya, begins to piece together the puzzle of her parents' past, showing interest in their love story. Her innocent insights bring Will face-to-face with the unresolved emotions tied to his relationships.
- 12
Finalization of Divorce
The divorce between Will and Sarah is finalized, creating a bittersweet realization for both parents. Will reassures Maya that even though things have changed, their family can still have a happy ending.
- 13
Will Finds April's Book
While unpacking in his new place, Will stumbles upon April's book, which reignites his feelings for her. Despite initial ambiguity, he gathers the courage to return it, marking a pivotal moment in his quest for closure.
- 14
Heartfelt Reunion
A miscommunication initially leads to resistance when Will returns to see April. However, after expressing how much he has missed her, she invites him and Maya to hear the whole story, indicating a rekindling of their connection.
- 15
The Rekindled Connection
The timeline culminates in a heartfelt kiss between Will and April, symbolizing a new chapter in their relationship. This moment leaves the door open for reconciliation and a brighter future for their family.
Who Are the Main Characters in Definitely, Maybe?
5 characters, among them Will Hayes (Ryan Reynolds), Maya Hayes and April Hoffman: who each one is and the part they play in the story. 1 of them link to the actor’s page.
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Will Hayes (Ryan Reynolds)
Played by Ryan Reynolds
Will Hayes is an advertising professional and a father whose journey through love, loss, and self-discovery shapes the narrative of the film. His playful nature contrasts with his emotional struggles, particularly as he grapples with the complexities of romantic relationships and fatherhood. Will's character evolves significantly from a carefree young man to a more introspective individual learning from his past.
- 👨💼 Professional
- 💔 Heartbroken
- MH
Maya Hayes
Maya is Will's insightful 10-year-old daughter whose curiosity about her parents' past serves as the narrative's catalyst. Her innocence and desire for understanding reveal the complexity of adult relationships, and she often acts as the bridge between Will's past and present. Maya's perspective provides a fresh lens on familial love.
- 👧 Child
- ❓ Curious
- AH
April Hoffman
April Hoffman embodies independence and strength, serving as a romantic interest for Will. Her dynamic personality challenges Will's views on life and politics, and her own story reveals vulnerabilities that deepen their connections. April is portrayed with a blend of spirited ambition and a longing for genuine relationships.
- 💪 Independent
- ❤️ Romantic Interest
- SH
Summer Hartley
Summer is a journalist whose romance with Will illuminates themes of ambition and conflict in relationships. Her character draws attention to the sacrifices made for career aspirations while also unearthing tensions tied to trust and fidelity. Summer's journey leads to profound realizations that impact her relationship with Will.
- 📰 Journalist
- 💔 Complicated
- EJ
Emily Jones
Emily is a pivotal character from Will's past, representing lost love and nostalgia. Her return to Will's life challenges him to confront unresolved feelings and the reality of his current relationships. Through Emily, the film delves into themes of infidelity and the complexity of love over time.
- 💖 First Love
- 💔 Nostalgic
Where and When Is Definitely, Maybe Set?
Definitely, Maybe is set in New York City, Madison and Wisconsin (1992, Early 2000s). Here is why the time and place matter to the story.
When
1992, Early 2000s
The movie begins in 1992 during the height of Bill Clinton's campaign, reflecting a time of political change and youthful ambition. As the narrative progresses into the early 2000s, it illustrates the evolution of relationships and the personal challenges that come with adulthood.
Where
New York City, Madison, Wisconsin
New York City serves as the bustling backdrop where Will Hayes navigates his career and personal life, showcasing the fast-paced nature of urban living and the complexities of relationships. Madison, Wisconsin represents Will's college roots and first love, evoking nostalgia and the innocence of youth against the backdrop of a presidential campaign.
- 🏙️ City
- 🌳 Suburb
What Are the Themes of Definitely, Maybe?
3 ideas the story keeps returning to, among them Love and Loss, Family Dynamics and Political Ambition.
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01
Love and Loss
The film explores themes of love and heartbreak through Will's relationships with the significant women in his life. As he revisits his past, he learns about the complexities of love, infidelity, and the impact of choices on emotional wellbeing. Ultimately, it highlights the potential for reconciliation and second chances.
-
02
Family Dynamics
Family plays a crucial role in the storyline, particularly through Will and his daughter Maya. Their relationship serves as a lens through which past decisions and romantic entanglements are examined, underscoring the importance of family bonds in navigating life's challenges.
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03
Political Ambition
Set against a political campaign backdrop, the movie delves into the world of advertising and political consulting. It portrays the excitement and ethical dilemmas faced in the pursuit of political success, reflecting broader societal themes of ambition and integrity.
What Kind of Film Is Definitely, Maybe?
Bittersweet in tone, with steady pacing and a moderate story, going by the plot summary.
- Tone
- Bittersweet
- Pacing
- Steady
- Story
- Moderate
- Intensity
- Medium
- Ending
- Happy
A heartfelt and reflective romantic drama that gracefully blends wistful nostalgia with a hopeful, warm core, as a father's story of past loves becomes a tender lesson for his daughter about life's unexpected turns.
- reflective
- nostalgic
- hopeful
- romantic
- warm
- melancholic
- storytelling
- father daughter relationship
- romantic history
- personal growth
Content notes: divorce, infidelity.
Quiz
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