Finding Amanda 2008

Drama

Comedy

Box Office

$77K

Runtime

96 min

Language

English

Directed by

Peter Tolan

Made by

HDNet Films

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Plot Summary

Read the complete plot summary and ending explained for Finding Amanda (2008). From turning points to emotional moments, uncover what really happened and why it matters.

Working as a television writer for a struggling sitcom titled Those McAllister’s, Taylor Peters (played by Matthew Broderick) has fallen into a web of vices including excessive drinking, drug use, and compulsive gambling. These habits have previously wreaked havoc on his career, leading him to attend therapy sessions primarily to appease his wife, Lorraine (portrayed by Maura Tierney). Compounding his chaotic home life is the shocking revelation that their 20-year-old niece, Amanda (played by Brittany Snow), has run away to Las Vegas, where she is working as a prostitute.

Despite writing a successful comedic scene for his lead actor, Ed Begley, Jr., Taylor’s obsession with horse racing continually pulls him back to the track. When Lorraine uncovers his secret gambling, she threatens him with divorce unless he makes a change. In a moment of desperation, he resolves to find Amanda and persuade her to enter a rehabilitation program in Malibu.

Upon arriving in Las Vegas, Taylor tracks down Amanda, only to discover that, despite the inherent dangers of her lifestyle, she has come into a significant amount of money and maintains a surprisingly sophisticated view of the world. As he attempts to rescue her, Taylor finds himself spiraling back into his old habits of drinking and drug use, causing further strain on his already fragile marriage. However, through this turmoil, he gains valuable insights about life and forms a deeper connection with Amanda, encouraging her to consider making positive changes for her future.

“Sometimes, the most important choice is to realize you have choices.”

Timeline

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Struggles of a Television Writer

Taylor Peters, a television writer, faces numerous challenges as he works on the struggling sitcom 'Those McAllister's'. His career is severely impacted by his self-destructive behavior, which includes excessive drinking and gambling.

Therapy Sessions

In an attempt to salvage his marriage, Taylor attends therapy primarily to appease his wife, Lorraine. Despite his efforts, the therapy sessions reveal deeper issues rooted in his addiction and reckless behavior.

Niece's Disturbing Revelation

A shocking turn of events occurs when Taylor learns that Amanda, his 20-year-old niece, has run away to Las Vegas. This revelation adds significant stress to his already turbulent life.

Success in Writing

Despite his personal struggles, Taylor writes a successful comedic scene for the show's lead actor, Ed Begley, Jr. This moment of achievement is overshadowed by his ongoing addiction to gambling.

Confrontation with Lorraine

Lorraine discovers Taylor's secret gambling habit and confronts him about it. She makes it clear that she will pursue a divorce unless he takes serious steps to change his behavior.

Desperate Search for Amanda

Determined to turn his life around, Taylor decides to locate Amanda in Las Vegas. His goal is to convince her to enter a rehabilitation program, believing it could give them both a chance for redemption.

Las Vegas

Finding Amanda

Upon arriving in Las Vegas, Taylor manages to track down Amanda. He is taken aback by her unexpected sophistication and the amount of money she has made in her current line of work.

Las Vegas

Dangers of Amanda's Lifestyle

Taylor is alarmed by the inherent dangers Amanda faces in her lifestyle as a prostitute. Despite this, he is struck by her surprising maturity and outlook on life, which complicates his plans to rescue her.

Las Vegas

Taylor's Downward Spiral

As Taylor strives to help Amanda, he finds himself succumbing to his old habits of drinking and drug use once more. This regression threatens his marriage and makes his mission even more challenging.

Las Vegas

Gaining Insight

Through the turmoil of his quest to save Amanda, Taylor gains valuable insights about himself and the importance of making choices. This revelation helps him to connect more deeply with Amanda.

Encouragement for Change

Despite their troubled relationship and Taylor's ongoing struggles, he encourages Amanda to consider making positive changes for her future. This dialogue fosters a moment of hope amidst the chaos.

Las Vegas

Facing Reality

Taylor must confront the reality of his vices and their impacts on both his life and those he loves. The journey serves as a reminder that acknowledging one's choices is the first step towards making a change.

Characters

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Taylor Peters (Matthew Broderick)

Taylor Peters is a struggling television writer caught in a series of self-destructive habits. His compulsions, from gambling to substance abuse, reveal his deep-seated insecurities and fears. As the story progresses, Taylor's desire to save his niece Amanda forces him to confront his shortcomings and strive for a better path.

✍️ Writer 🎭 Flawed Protagonist

Lorraine (Maura Tierney)

Lorraine is Taylor's wife, who grapples with the fallout of his addictions and infidelities. She is portrayed as strong-willed yet vulnerable, constantly at odds with her husband's behavior. Lorraine's tough love and ultimate ultimatum highlight her desire for a healthier relationship.

💔 Supportive 🛡️ Protector

Amanda (Brittany Snow)

Amanda, Taylor's niece, represents the consequences of choices made in desperation. Her life in Las Vegas as a working girl contrasts sharply with Taylor's initial impressions of her innocence. Throughout the film, she evolves from a victim of her situation to someone capable of making her own life choices.

🌟 Complex 🌍 Survivor

Setting

Learn where and when Finding Amanda (2008) takes place. Explore the film’s settings, era, and how they shape the narrative.

Time period

The narrative unfolds in contemporary times, reflecting modern societal issues such as addiction and the impact of lifestyle choices. The characters navigate personal crises against the backdrop of a fast-paced world, highlighting both the challenges and the complexities of personal relationships.

Location

Las Vegas, Malibu

Las Vegas is known for its vibrant nightlife, casinos, and entertainment options. The city serves as a backdrop for many stories of excess, temptation, and personal conflict. Malibu, on the other hand, is famed for its stunning beaches and celebrity homes, representing a place of healing and recovery, especially in contexts of rehabilitation.

🎰 Las Vegas 🌊 Malibu

Themes

Discover the main themes in Finding Amanda (2008). Analyze the deeper meanings, emotional layers, and social commentary behind the film.

💔

Addiction

Addiction plays a central role in shaping the characters' lives and decisions. Taylor's struggle with gambling, drinking, and drug use symbolizes a deeper search for escape and control. As he confronts his vices, the theme of redemption emerges, showcasing the hope for recovery and personal growth amidst turmoil.

🛣️

Choices

The theme of choices resonates throughout the film, particularly highlighted in Taylor's journey. He learns that every decision, whether big or small, has significant consequences. Through his quest to help Amanda, he confronts his own choices, leading to greater self-awareness and the understanding that change is possible.

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