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Plot summary

The Four-Faced Liar (2010) Plot Summary & Timeline

The Four-Faced Liar (2010) movie poster

The Four-Faced Liar is a 2010 drama and comedy film directed by Jacob Chase, running 1 hour 27 minutes. This page retells the whole story in 599 words (about 3 minutes to read) and covers 15 key events in order, 5 characters, where and when it is set and 3 themes. Looking for the cast, ratings and where to stream it? See the movie page for The Four-Faced Liar.

to read the plot summary
3 min
key events in the timeline
15
characters profiled
5
themes explained
3
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The Four-Faced Liar (2010) movie poster
Released
Runtime
1h 27m
Director
Jacob Chase
Genres
Drama, Comedy, Romance
Original language
English
No spoilers

What Is The Four-Faced Liar About?

The premise of The Four-Faced Liar in 308 words, with nothing given away. The full story follows below.

In the ever‑buzzing streets of New York City, a modest but charismatic bar called the Four‑Faced Liar serves as a gathering point for a close‑knit circle of twenty‑something friends. The venue, with its dim lighting and eclectic playlist, feels like a living room for the city’s young adults who are trying to map out love, career, and identity against a backdrop of rooftop gardens, late‑night coffee runs, and the relentless hum of traffic. The film’s tone is warm and witty, blending the city’s kinetic energy with moments of quiet reflection, inviting viewers to feel both the excitement of the metropolis and the intimacy of a shared confidante.

At the heart of this ensemble is Greg, who has just moved in with his girlfriend Molly, a thoughtful and steady presence navigating the pressures of a new relationship. Their friends Trip and Chloe bring a playful, sometimes chaotic rhythm to the mix, their banter oscillating between lighthearted teasing and deeper, unspoken concerns. Into this dynamic steps Bridget, a free‑spirited lover of classic literature—especially the brooding romance of Wuthering Heights—who radiates a confident yet vulnerable honesty about her own desires. As the group settles into the bar’s nightly rituals, conversations drift from favorite novels to personal hopes, subtly exposing the gaps between what they share and what they secretly crave.

The film unfolds as a gentle exploration of how friendships can both anchor and unsettle us when the lines of affection begin to blur. With a soundtrack that mirrors the city’s pulse and a visual palette that captures both glittering nightscapes and cozy indoor corners, the story hints at the inevitable moments when hearts shift, passions stir, and each character must confront what love truly means for them. The audience is left anticipating how these intertwined lives will navigate the delicate balance between comfort and the thrilling uncertainty of new possibilities.

Full plot

What Happens in The Four-Faced Liar?

The complete story of The Four-Faced Liar, from the first scene to the last, in 599 words (about 3 minutes). Spoilers throughout. Names in the text link to 2 cast member pages.

Spoilers ahead

Set against the vibrant backdrop of New York City over six or seven months, we follow Greg (Daniel Carlisle) as he settles into life with his girlfriend Molly (Emily Peck). On their first night out together since moving in, they head to the local haunt, the Four-Faced Liar bar, where they encounter Trip (Todd Kubrak), his girlfriend Chloe (Liz Osborn), and their friend Bridget (Marja Lewis Ryan). As Molly and Bridget engage in a lively conversation about Wuthering Heights and their romantic experiences, Molly confides in Bridget about her relationship, expressing that although she and Greg share much in common, there’s a notable absence of passion.

Bridget, candid about her own lack of romantic interest in women, reveals that she lives with Trip and Chloe, getting up at the same time as Trip daily to share mundane routines like brushing their teeth together. Meanwhile, as Greg and Trip indulge in beers and joints on the rooftop, Trip’s concern for Molly’s growing friendship with Bridget emerges, albeit humorously, as he reminds Greg that Bridget identifies as a lesbian. Greg brushes off Trip’s worries, affirming that it’s unfounded.

Things get tense when, around Halloween, Trip chooses to skip a ballet performance with Chloe in favor of watching sports, which frustrates her. In the aftermath, they reconcile after Trip’s heartfelt gesture involving her favorite dessert and an endearing dance, but on the same night, a drunken altercation occurs when Greg attempts to pressure Molly into intimacy, leading her to find refuge with Bridget until Greg sincerely apologizes.

As the year comes to a close, during a lively New Year’s Eve gathering at the bar, Molly expresses to Bridget how she craves a passionate kiss. In a bold move, Bridget fulfills that desire in the restroom, resulting in a steamy encounter just as the clock strikes midnight. Both women are left stunned by this unexpected turn of events. Molly returns to Greg afterward, but secretly embarks on an affair with Bridget, marking the start of a passionate connection that blossoms in public and private moments.

As time progresses, Chloe becomes aware of Trip’s unfaithfulness and confronts him, leading to her leaving him. When Chloe finds Molly in a compromising position with Bridget, she reacts with disappointment towards both. Trip later informs Greg about the affair, yet Greg forgives Molly, asserting that she is “worth it.” However, this leads to Molly ending her romantic relationship with Bridget, declaring her engagement to Greg.

The drama continues at Molly’s birthday celebration at the bar, where Trip attempts to win back Chloe, and Bridget makes her intentions clear to Molly with a straightforward confession, “I like you.” Tensions escalate when Greg confronts Bridget about her feelings for Molly, resulting in an explosive confrontation that spirals outside. Chloe and Molly notice the chaos and rush out to diffuse the situation, where Trip intervenes, only for Bridget to slip away while Chloe comforts her.

Ultimately, as the film reaches its close, Molly comes to a difficult decision to end her engagement with Greg, prompting him to return to his hometown. Seeking solace, she visits Bridget, sharing the news of her split from Greg. They lie side by side, both lost in thought as they gaze up at the ceiling. Bridget expresses her determination to captivate Molly’s interest, while an exchange of looks reveals their complex emotions—Bridget’s hinting at the thrill of new love, and Molly’s reflecting uncertainty as she contemplates a fully committed life with Bridget, differing vastly from her previous experiences. The final scene powerfully conveys their intertwined destinies, each face revealing profound feelings that words can’t capture.

Timeline

The Four-Faced Liar Timeline: Every Key Event in Order

15 key events in the order they happen, from “Greg and Molly Move In Together” to “Hope for a New Beginning”. 9 events name a place, across 2 locations.

  1. 1

    Greg and Molly Move In Together

    Greg and Molly start their new chapter in New York City, embracing the challenges and excitement of cohabitation. While they share many interests, Molly senses a lack of deeper passion in their relationship, which will soon become a pivotal issue.

    Where:New York City

  2. 2

    First Night Out at Four-Faced Liar

    On their first night out since moving in, Greg and Molly visit the Four-Faced Liar bar, where they meet Trip, Chloe, and Bridget. During the gathering, Molly opens up to Bridget about her relationship, highlighting her longing for more passion with Greg.

    Where:Four-Faced Liar Bar, New York City

  3. 3

    Bridget Shares Her Views

    Bridget candidly discusses her own lack of romantic interest in women, providing a contrast to Molly's struggles. Their conversation reveals the complexities of relationships and deepens the bond between the two women.

    Where:Four-Faced Liar Bar, New York City

  4. 4

    Halloween Tensions Arise

    As Halloween approaches, tensions escalate between Trip and Chloe after Trip opts to skip a ballet performance for sports. Their relationship faces challenges, but they reconcile later, showcasing their commitment to one another.

    When:Halloween Where:New York City

  5. 5

    Intimacy Issues Surface

    During a drunken night, Greg pressures Molly for intimacy, which leads her to seek comfort with Bridget. This pivotal moment tests their relationship and prompts Greg to apologize sincerely to Molly, highlighting the growing emotional rift.

    Where:New York City

  6. 6

    New Year's Eve Revelations

    At a vibrant New Year's Eve celebration, Molly confesses to Bridget her desire for a passionate kiss. In a provocative turn of events, Bridget responds to this longing in a restroom, igniting an unexpected and steamy connection between them.

    When:New Year's Eve Where:Four-Faced Liar Bar, New York City

  7. 7

    Molly and Bridget's Affair Begins

    After the New Year's kiss, Molly embarks on a secret affair with Bridget, exploring an intense emotional and physical connection that blossoms in both hidden and public moments. This affair marks a significant turning point for both women.

  8. 8

    Chloe Confronts Trip

    As time passes, Chloe discovers Trip's infidelity and confronts him, leading to the dissolution of their relationship. This event creates ripples in their social circle, affecting everyone involved significantly.

    Where:New York City

  9. 9

    Greg Learns About the Affair

    Trip tells Greg about Molly's affair with Bridget. Surprisingly, Greg responds with forgiveness, emphasizing his belief in Molly's worth, but this act sets the stage for further complications in their intertwined relationships.

  10. 10

    Molly's Engagement Announcement

    In a surprising turn, Molly ends her romantic relationship with Bridget to declare her engagement to Greg. This decision shocks both herself and Bridget, leaving unresolved feelings in the wake of her decision.

Show the other 5 events of The Four-Faced Liar
  1. 11

    Birthday Celebration Tensions

    At Molly's birthday gathering, the atmosphere becomes charged when Trip attempts to win back Chloe while Bridget openly confesses her feelings for Molly. The night spirals into chaos as emotions run high, leading to confrontations between the characters.

    Where:Four-Faced Liar Bar, New York City

  2. 12

    Explosive Confrontation

    Greg's confrontation with Bridget about her feelings for Molly escalates into a public argument, leaving everyone around them tense and polarized. Chloe and Molly rush out to calm the situation as relationships begin to fracture further.

    Where:New York City

  3. 13

    Molly's Heartfelt Decision

    In a moment of self-reflection, Molly makes the difficult decision to end her engagement with Greg. This choice signifies a critical turning point in her life as she seeks clarity about her feelings and future with Bridget.

  4. 14

    Reunion with Bridget

    After ending her engagement, Molly seeks solace with Bridget, sharing the weight of her decision. They lie together, contemplating their next steps, as unspoken emotions hang heavy in the air between them.

  5. 15

    Hope for a New Beginning

    As the film concludes, both women contemplate their feelings for each other, hinting at the possibility of new love. The complexity of their emotions and the uncertainty of their future create a poignant ending, leaving the audience with a sense of hope amidst chaos.

Characters

Who Are the Main Characters in The Four-Faced Liar?

5 characters, among them Greg (Daniel Carlisle), Molly (Emily Peck) and Bridget (Marja Lewis Ryan): who each one is and the part they play in the story.

  • G(

    Greg (Daniel Carlisle)

    Greg is depicted as a well-meaning but ultimately flawed partner, struggling to maintain the passion in his relationship with Molly. His naïve assurance about her friendship with Bridget unveils a deeper insecurity about love and fidelity.

    • 💔 Heartbroken
    • 😕 Confused
  • M(

    Molly (Emily Peck)

    Molly is torn between her commitment to Greg and her burgeoning feelings for Bridget. Her journey reflects the struggle between societal expectations and personal desires, culminating in a courageous decision about her love life.

    • 💖 Romantic
    • 🌸 Conflicted
  • B(

    Bridget (Marja Lewis Ryan)

    Bridget is a complex character who grapples with her attraction to Molly while dealing with her own relationship challenges. Her boldness in expressing her feelings signifies a yearning for love and connection that transcends traditional boundaries.

    • 🏳️‍🌈 Brave
    • 🌟 Passionate
  • T(

    Trip (Todd Kubrak)

    Trip serves as both friend and antagonist, embodying the tensions of romantic relationships. His humorous demeanor masks deeper concerns about loyalty and love, particularly regarding his girlfriend Chloe and friend Molly's new connection.

    • 😅 Humorous
    • 🤔 Witty
  • C(

    Chloe (Liz Osborn)

    Chloe is characterized by her strong emotions and need for commitment, particularly as she navigates her fraught relationship with Trip. Her reaction to betrayal underscores the pain that comes from misplaced trust and love.

    • 😡 Frustrated
    • 💔 Heartbroken
Setting

Where and When Is The Four-Faced Liar Set?

The Four-Faced Liar is set in New York City and Four-Faced Liar bar (Modern Day). Here is why the time and place matter to the story.

When

Modern Day

The movie unfolds over six to seven months, capturing contemporary social dynamics and relationship struggles. Notable events like Halloween and New Year's Eve serve as significant markers in the characters' lives, highlighting the passage of time and the evolution of their relationships.

Where

New York City, Four-Faced Liar bar

New York City serves as a vibrant backdrop for the film, known for its dynamic culture and diverse relationships. The Four-Faced Liar bar is a crucial location where characters meet and confront their emotions, making it a microcosm for the film's exploration of love and friendship.

  • 🏙️ City
  • 🍻 Bar
Themes

What Are the Themes of The Four-Faced Liar?

3 ideas the story keeps returning to, among them Love & Betrayal, Sexual Identity and Friendship.

  1. 01

    Love & Betrayal

    The theme of love and betrayal is central to the film, showcasing the complexities of romantic relationships. Molly's affair with Bridget and Trip's infidelity unravel the conventional narratives of love, illustrating how human emotions can lead to unexpected choices and pain.

  2. 02

    Sexual Identity

    The exploration of sexual identity is prominent, particularly through the character of Bridget, who navigates her feelings toward Molly amidst societal expectations. The film delves into the fluidity of attraction and the courage it takes to embrace one's true self and desires.

  3. 03

    Friendship

    Friendship plays a vital role in the narrative, as characters support each other through trials and tribulations. The bond between Molly and Bridget evolves from companionship to romance, emphasizing how friendships can transform and impact one's life choices.

Tone & mood

What Kind of Film Is The Four-Faced Liar?

Bittersweet in tone, with steady pacing and a moderate story, going by the plot summary.

Tone
Bittersweet
Pacing
Steady
Story
Moderate
Intensity
Medium
Ending
Ambiguous

A character-driven drama that intimately follows a group of friends navigating the passionate turmoil of secret affairs and sexual discovery against a vibrant New York City backdrop.

  • longing
  • passionate
  • confused
  • intimate
  • uncertain
  • dramatic
  • sexual discovery
  • love triangle
  • infidelity
  • friendship

Content notes: infidelity, sexual pressure.

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FAQ

The Four-Faced Liar Plot Questions

5 quick answers about The Four-Faced Liar, taken from the plot summary, character guide and setting on this page and the film’s credits.

What is The Four-Faced Liar about?

In the ever‑buzzing streets of New York City, a modest but charismatic bar called the Four‑Faced Liar serves as a gathering point for a close‑knit circle of twenty‑something friends.

Read the full plot summary

When and where does The Four-Faced Liar take place?

The Four-Faced Liar is set in New York City and Four-Faced Liar bar (Modern Day). The movie unfolds over six to seven months, capturing contemporary social dynamics and relationship struggles. Notable events like Halloween and New Year's Eve serve as significant markers in the characters' lives…

The setting explained

Who are the main characters in The Four-Faced Liar?

The story follows Greg (Daniel Carlisle), Molly (Emily Peck), Bridget (Marja Lewis Ryan) and Trip (Todd Kubrak); the character guide covers 5 characters in all.

All the characters

What are the main themes of The Four-Faced Liar?

The summary picks out 3 themes: Love & Betrayal, Sexual Identity and Friendship.

The themes explained

Who directed The Four-Faced Liar?

The Four-Faced Liar (2010) was directed by Jacob Chase and runs 1 hour 27 minutes.

Jacob Chase’s films

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