What Is Protocol About?
The premise of Protocol in 293 words, with nothing given away. The full story follows below.
In a bustling Washington, D.C., where the glitter of high‑stakes diplomacy collides with the neon pulse of downtown night‑life, a light‑hearted yet incisive comedy‑drama unfolds. The city’s grand institutions and its more modest corners share a common rhythm of ceremony and chaos, giving the story a breezy, slightly satirical tone that keeps the audience guessing what will be taken seriously and what will be laughed at. This world, balanced between formal state functions and the everyday hustle of a downtown club, sets the stage for an unexpected collision of ordinary life with the lofty world of international protocol.
Sunny Ann Davis is a quick‑witted, off‑beat cocktail waitress whose modest existence is defined by a cramped apartment, a sputtering car, and a string of unremarkable days. Her irreverent charm and unpretentious outlook make her a magnetic presence wherever she goes, even as she navigates the pressures of a demanding job at a popular nightspot. A chance encounter thrusts her into the limelight, and the State Department, ever eager for fresh faces, recruits her as an unconventional asset, introducing her to a realm of diplomatic etiquette and covert maneuvering far removed from the bar counter.
Alongside Michael Ransome, a seasoned State Department official who sees both potential and peculiarity in her, Sunny steps into a world where protocol is both a shield and a weapon. Her innate charisma endears her to officials and foreign dignitaries alike, hinting at the delicate balance she must maintain between personal authenticity and the expectations of a global stage. The film’s tone—equal parts witty observation and heartfelt exploration—suggests that her newfound role could ripple through international relations, setting up a playful yet thought‑provoking look at how an ordinary person might inadvertently become a catalyst in a larger, unpredictable political tapestry.
What Happens in Protocol?
The complete story of Protocol, from the first scene to the last, in 842 words (about 4 minutes). Spoilers throughout. Names in the text link to 6 cast member pages.
Spoilers ahead
Sunny Ann Davis, portrayed by Goldie Hawn, is a quirky woman in her thirties navigating life as a cocktail waitress in the bustling city of Washington, D.C. Living in a cramped space rented from a gay couple, she finds herself facing a series of unfortunate events: a lackluster love life and a dilapidated car that resembles a rust bucket on wheels.
One fateful day, her car unexpectedly breaks down, inadvertently blocking a diplomatic convoy en route to the White House. With the Diplomatic Security Service on high alert, they treat this incident as a potential security threat, drawing their weapons, while Sunny remains blissfully unaware. All she worries about is being late for work.
At the Safari Club, where she works, the night descends into chaos. After her date cancels on her, she is forced to don an embarrassing emu suit, as the other waitress costumes are taken. Being “so broke,” she refuses to entertain a patron’s dubious offer for “special favors” and also declines a loan from Ella, a fellow waitress played by Jean Smart.
Curious about a gala dinner taking place nearby, Sunny stops to watch dignitaries as they leave the event. In a shocking encounter, a man of Middle Eastern descent, who rudely pushes past her, inadvertently reveals a gun in his coat. In a split second of sheer bravery—and perhaps naivety—Sunny asks if he has a gun. When he inadvertently fires a shot, her quick thinking leads her to bite his arm to prevent him from aiming. In the ensuing struggle, Sunny is shot, and the chaos serves as the backdrop for her unexpected rise to fame.
As news spreads of her bravery, she finds herself in the hospital celebrated as a heroine for thwarting the potential assassination of the visiting Emir, Richard Romanus. Doctors surgically remove the bullet lodged in Sunny’s left buttock, and while she recuperates, she is overwhelmed by public adoration, receiving letters from celebrities and a barrage of marriage proposals.
Among those smitten by her charm is Michael Ransome, a Middle Eastern desk chief with the State Department. He assists her in navigating her first press conference post-shooting, where she dazzles the media, revealing her witty and intelligent character.
Meanwhile, as politicians Crowe and Hilley watch her charm unfold on television, they joke about her potential to run for office, given her appeal across various demographics. They even manage to wake the President of the United States, who is napping, to get him in on the discussion about Sunny’s newfound popularity.
The Emir, grateful for Sunny’s intervention, perceives her as a potential addition to his life, should the U.S. succeed in establishing a military base in his strategically located country. In a surprising twist, the Emir stipulates that he wants Sunny as another wife in exchange for allowing the base, leading to a secretive plan by the State Department to trade her for the geopolitical gain.
Enter Vice President Merck, who offers Sunny a role in the Protocol Department, a position that she eagerly accepts despite needing to look up the term “protocol” in a dictionary. She steps into this new chapter of her life with excitement, attending formal dinners and mingling with international dignitaries. One notable encounter is with Nawaf Al Kabeer, an Arab official, who gifts her a new car as a token of thanks from the Emir. However, Sunny, aware of the ethical implications of accepting such gifts, chooses to return it, unwittingly angering both the Emir and the State Department.
As rumors of her being a prospective queen percolate back in El Othar, tensions rise. When Sunny is invited to meet the Emir, she plans an event at her old workplace, the Safari Club, but chaos ensues, culminating in police interference and a media frenzy. Despite her innocence in the rising turmoil, the backlash mounts, and the government scrambles to distance itself from the unfolding scandal.
When Sunny travels to the Emir’s homeland, the reality of her situation dawns on her, as she discovers murals touting her as a bride-to-be, revealing the grim manipulation behind her sudden prominence. Before she can confront the ruse, a violent overthrow of power disrupts plans, forcing Sunny and the Emir to flee amidst escalating chaos.
Back in the U.S., the government claims no knowledge of the scheme, and Sunny finds herself scrutinized under a Congressional inquiry. Undeterred, she assumes responsibility for her naive involvement, while simultaneously reminding her political leaders of their obligations to the populace. With a fierce declaration to hold them accountable henceforth, she decisively walks out of the inquiry, leaving Washington D.C. in her rearview mirror.
Two years later, Sunny is now married to Ransome and they are parents. Resettled in her hometown of Diamond Junction, Oregon, she becomes involved in local politics, and when persuaded to run for Congress, she eagerly embraces the opportunity. The story culminates in a jubilant campaign rally where she receives a phone call confirming her election victory, igniting a celebration among her supporters, and marking the commencement of Sunny’s impactful new journey in public service.
Protocol Timeline: Every Key Event in Order
15 key events in the order they happen, from “Sunny's Struggles” to “Election Victory”. 15 events name a place, across 6 locations.
- 1
Sunny's Struggles
Sunny Ann Davis, a 30-something cocktail waitress, juggles a monotonous life working in Washington, D.C. She faces financial difficulties, drives an unreliable car, and has a rocky love life, living in a room rented from a gay couple.
Where:Washington, D.C.
- 2
Car Trouble
Sunny's old car breaks down, inadvertently blocking a diplomatic convoy headed to the White House. The Diplomatic Security Service perceives this as a potential security threat, escalating the situation as they draw their weapons.
Where:Washington, D.C.
- 3
A Night at the Safari Club
At work, Sunny's date cancels, and she is forced to wear an embarrassing emu suit, as all other costumes are taken. Despite her desperate financial situation, she rejects propositions from patrons looking for 'special favors'.
Where:Safari Club, Washington, D.C.
- 4
Encounter with Danger
Sunny witnesses a gala dinner and gets pushed aside by a man she suspects may be carrying a weapon. As she confronts him, a struggle ensues, and she is shot while trying to prevent an assassination attempt.
Where:Washington, D.C.
- 5
Heroin Status
Following the shooting, Sunny is taken to the hospital where she becomes a media sensation for thwarting an assassination attempt on a visiting Emir. She receives enthusiastic public attention and admiration, feeling overwhelmed by the fame.
Where:Hospital, Washington, D.C.
- 6
Press Conference
With the help of Michael Ransome from the State Department, Sunny faces the press for the first time. Her charm and humor win over the audience as she describes her experiences, revealing her intelligence and American patriotism.
Where:Washington, D.C.
- 7
Unexpected Political Interest
Political figures watch Sunny's press conference in awe and consider her as a future candidate for office. They realize she could potentially appeal to various voter demographics, leading to a call from the President to Sunny.
Where:White House
- 8
Job Offer
Sunny receives a job offer from Vice President Merck to work within the Government's Protocol Department. Initially confused by the term 'protocol', she eventually accepts, thrilled by the opportunity despite her lack of political knowledge.
Where:Washington, D.C.
- 9
Dignitary Interactions
In her new role, Sunny mingles with dignitaries from around the globe. She refuses a luxury car gift from the Emir, motivated by her newfound understanding of government ethics, which angers both the Emir and the State Department.
Where:Washington, D.C.
- 10
The Emir's Proposal
Sunny learns that the Emir wants to secure her as a new wife in exchange for allowing the U.S. to build a military base in his country. Unwillingly caught in political machinations, she finds herself representing her country in a foreign land.
Where:Emir's Country
Show the other 5 events of Protocol Hide the last 5 events
- 11
Coup d'état
While meeting with the Emir, a violent coup erupts, forcing Sunny and the Emir to flee. This unexpected turn plunges Sunny deeper into a situation she did not fully understand, as the political ramifications continue to unfold.
Where:Emir's Country
- 12
Congressional Inquiry
Back in the U.S., skepticism grows over whether Sunny was complicit in the political deal. She testifies at a Congressional inquiry, bravely taking the blame while challenging leaders to act responsibly toward the public.
Where:Washington, D.C.
- 13
Starting Anew
After the chaos in Washington, Sunny relocates and starts a family with Michael Ransome. Living in her hometown, she re-engages with local politics, hinting at a desire to contribute more significantly.
When:Two years later Where:Diamond Junction, Oregon
- 14
Running for Congress
Encouraged by her community, Sunny decides to run for Congress to represent her state. Her experience from the past fuels her motivation to bring change and advocate for the people.
Where:Diamond Junction, Oregon
- 15
Election Victory
During a campaign rally, Sunny receives thrilling news that she has won the election. This victory celebrates not only her personal journey but also her commitment to service, eliciting joy among her supporters.
Where:Diamond Junction, Oregon
Who Are the Main Characters in Protocol?
4 characters, among them Sunny Ann Davis (Goldie Hawn), Michael Ransome (Chris Sarandon) and Emir (Richard Romanus): who each one is and the part they play in the story. Every profile links to the actor’s page.
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Sunny Ann Davis (Goldie Hawn)
Played by Goldie Hawn
Sunny is portrayed as a bubbly yet naive cocktail waitress who unintentionally becomes a heroine. Her charm, intelligence, and sense of humor shine through her seemingly ditzy exterior. As the plot unfolds, Sunny demonstrates resilience, ultimately navigating complex political landscapes and embracing her role in public life.
- 👩🎤 Protagonist
- 🌈 Quirky
- 🦸♀️ Heroine
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Michael Ransome (Chris Sarandon)
Played by Chris Sarandon
Michael is a sophisticated State Department official who provides guidance and support to Sunny during her press conferences. His character transitions from a professional ally to a romantic partner, showcasing his commitment to Sunny and his discontent with political manipulations. He serves as a moral compass, pushing back against the darker sides of government actions.
- 🤵 Supportive
- 💔 Romantic Interest
- 💼 Political
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Emir (Richard Romanus)
Played by Richard Romanus
The Emir represents the political intrigue and complexity of international diplomacy. His desire to marry Sunny as part of a trade agreement illustrates the intersection of personal lives with national interests. Through his character, the film explores themes of power, tradition, and the consequences of manipulation.
- 👑 Authority
- 🌍 Diplomatic
- 📜 Traditional
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Ambassador St. John (Gail Strickland)
Played by Gail Strickland
Ambassador St. John is a shrewd, politically savvy character who sees the potential in leveraging Sunny's fame for political dealings. Her perspective reveals the ethical ambiguities often at play in government decisions. She is a strong female presence, embodying the complexities of leadership and manipulation.
- 👩⚖️ Ambitious
- 🎭 Strategic
- 🔍 Influential
Where and When Is Protocol Set?
Protocol is set in Washington, D.C., El Othar, Diamond Junction and Oregon (Modern Day). Here is why the time and place matter to the story.
When
Modern Day
The story takes place in contemporary times, reflecting the dynamics of modern American politics and international relations. The events highlight the complexities of diplomatic exchanges and the role of individuals in the political arena. The modern setting also emphasizes issues relevant to society today, such as media influence and public perception.
Where
Washington, D.C., El Othar, Diamond Junction, Oregon
Washington, D.C. is the vibrant heart of American politics, known for its iconic monuments and as a hub for diplomatic activity. El Othar, a small but strategic Middle Eastern country, serves as a focal point for international relations, particularly with the United States. Diamond Junction, Oregon is a quaint hometown that represents Sunny's roots and her eventual return to local politics.
- 🏛️ Government
- 🌍 Middle East
- 🏡 Hometown
What Are the Themes of Protocol?
3 ideas the story keeps returning to, among them Heroism, Political Manipulation and Love and Relationships.
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01
Heroism
The theme of heroism is central to Sunny's journey, as her drastic actions inadvertently prevent an assassination and thrust her into the public eye. Her naive yet brave response to life-threatening situations showcases how ordinary people can become heroes in unexpected ways. This theme explores bravery mixed with absurdity, reflecting on how societal views of heroism can evolve.
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02
Political Manipulation
Throughout the film, characters manipulate situations for political gain, highlighting themes of power and sacrifice. Sunny becomes an unwilling pawn in a diplomatic scheme, raising questions about ethics and individual consent. This theme illustrates the complexities of political gamesmanship and the personal impact on those involved.
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03
Love and Relationships
Sunny's romantic entanglements and friendships are set against a backdrop of personal struggles and professional turmoil. Her evolving relationships, particularly with Michael Ransome, showcase the interplay between personal ambition and emotional connection. This theme emphasizes how love can provide support amidst chaos, ultimately leading to personal growth.
What Kind of Film Is Protocol?
Light in tone, with fast pacing and a straightforward story, going by the plot summary.
- Tone
- Light
- Pacing
- Fast
- Story
- Straightforward
- Intensity
- Medium
- Ending
- Happy
A whimsical and fast-paced political comedy that follows a charmingly naive woman whose accidental heroism leads to a chaotic, satirical adventure through international diplomacy.
- quirky
- satirical
- charming
- uplifting
- chaotic
- naive
- political satire
- fish out of water
- diplomatic intrigue
- self discovery
Content notes: assassination attempt.
Quiz
How well do you remember Protocol? Test yourself on the story.
