What Is The Wizard About?
The premise of The Wizard in 283 words, with nothing given away. The full story follows below.
In the sun‑blazed stretches of the American West, a quiet town bears the weight of an unspoken tragedy. The story opens on a young boy whose world has been reshaped by loss, leaving him adrift in a landscape that feels both familiar and alien. The tone balances the starkness of grief with the restless optimism of a road‑bound adventure, hinting at a journey that could restore some of what has been shattered while still honoring the shadows that linger.
Jimmy Woods lives on the edge of two families, his days split between the home he shares with his mother Christine Bateman and step‑father, and the separate world of his brother Corey. Their father, Sam, and younger sibling Nick remain on the other side of a strained family divide. The brothers’ bond is a fragile lifeline, while an unconventional child bounty hunter, Putnam, circles the periphery, adding a note of uneasy tension to their already precarious existence. Beneath the surface, Jimmy’s quiet obsession with video games offers a glimpse of hidden talent and a possible doorway out of his isolation.
When Corey decides that the only way forward is to leave the confines of their town, the trio’s path converges with that of the spirited Haley Brooks, a fellow traveler with her own reasons for heading west. Their collective aim—to reach California—becomes more than a simple relocation; it evolves into a quest for purpose, connection, and a chance to prove something beyond their everyday struggles. Along the way, hints of an upcoming gaming competition suggest that Jimmy’s skill could become a pivotal thread, weaving together themes of redemption, youthful daring, and the fragile hope that a long road might finally lead them toward healing.
What Happens in The Wizard?
The complete story of The Wizard, from the first scene to the last, in 698 words (about 3 minutes). Spoilers throughout. Names in the text link to 6 cast member pages.
Spoilers ahead
Jimmy Woods, portrayed by Luke Edwards, is a young boy grappling with an undefined yet profound mental disorder that has taken root since the tragic drowning of his twin sister, Jennifer, in the Green River two years ago. Struggling to cope with his immense grief, Jimmy rarely engages with others; instead, he isolates himself, spending countless hours constructing elaborate structures from blocks or boxes. His fixation on heading to “California” emerges as a prominent theme, becoming nearly his only verbal expression since the heartbreaking incident. The weight of the trauma, coupled with Jimmy’s psychological struggles, has torn his family apart. He resides with his mother, Christine Bateman, and his stepfather while his brothers, Corey, played by Fred Savage, and Nick, played by Christian Slater, live with their father, Sam.
When Jimmy is placed in an institution due to his condition, Corey takes matters into his own hands, orchestrating a daring escape to flee with his brother to California. Meanwhile, Christine and her husband enlist the help of Putnam, a morally ambiguous child bounty hunter portrayed by Will Seltzer. With hopes of retrieving only Jimmy, Putnam finds himself in competition with Sam and Nick. This rivalry escalates, leading to chaotic encounters as both parties attempt to outmaneuver one another in their quest to find the boys.
On their journey, Corey and Jimmy cross paths with a spirited girl named Haley Brooks, played by Jenny Lewis, who is making her way home to Reno. Discovering Jimmy’s unexpected talent as a video game whiz, Haley, nicknamed him “the Wizard,” tantalizes the duo with tales of “Video Armageddon,” a prestigious video game tournament boasting a staggering $50,000 cash prize. Enthralled by the opportunity to prove that Jimmy deserves independence from institutional life, they enlist Haley’s help to reach Los Angeles with the aim of competing for a share of the winnings.
As the trio journeys across the country, they capitalize on Jimmy’s skills to hustle unsuspecting players out of their money in video game showdowns. Their adventures lead them to encounter Lucas Barton, a popular preteen with a Power Glove, is played by Jackey Vinson, who reveals his intention to enter the same tournament. Upon reaching Reno, Haley shares her motivation for wanting a piece of the prize money: to assist her father in purchasing a home. They receive crucial help from a trucker acquaintance named Spanky, and with the winnings from the craps tables, they train Jimmy at local arcades, specifically using Nintendo PlayChoice-10 machines to hone his gaming prowess.
However, the journey is fraught with challenges, as Putnam repeatedly tracks down the wandering trio, capturing and then losing Jimmy twice through a series of misadventures. The ultimate showdown occurs at Universal Studios Hollywood, where the tournament unfolds in the iconic Spartacus Square. After a rigorous preliminary round playing Ninja Gaiden, Jimmy manages to secure his place as a finalist. As the competition intensifies, Putnam’s relentless pursuit of the kids disrupts the event, nearly causing Jimmy to miss out on the final round.
In a climactic battle, the Woods family, the Bateman family, and Putnam converge in the audience as Jimmy faces off against Lucas and a third finalist in a game of Super Mario Bros. 3, a title that had yet to be released in the United States at that time. In a nail-biting finish, Jimmy clinches victory just moments before the timer runs out, discovering a Warp Whistle that catapults him into triumph.
As they embark on their journey back home, the family pauses at the Cabazon Dinosaurs, an intriguing tourist attraction. Overcome with excitement, Jimmy leaps from the vehicle and dashes into one of the colossal dinosaurs. Inside, he pulls out a cherished photograph of Jennifer taken during a family vacation at the dinosaur’s feet. This poignant moment strikes Corey as he realizes that Jimmy simply wanted to leave behind a piece of his sister’s memory where she would find joy. After placing the lunchbox inside the dinosaur, Christine kindly urges Sam to drive the boys and Haley home. In a heartwarming farewell, Haley kisses both Jimmy and Corey, prompting a tender peck on the cheek for Haley from Jimmy, encapsulating the bond they’ve formed throughout their adventure.
The Wizard Timeline: Every Key Event in Order
15 key events in the order they happen, from “Jennifer's Tragic Drowning” to “Farewell to Haley”. 8 events name a place, across 5 locations.
- 1
Jennifer's Tragic Drowning
Two years ago, Jimmy's twin sister, Jennifer, tragically drowned in the Green River. This devastating event leads to Jimmy suffering from a serious mental disorder, isolating him from the world around him.
When:Two years prior Where:Green River
- 2
Family Breakdown
In the aftermath of Jennifer's death, the Woods family is fractured. Jimmy lives with his mother, Christine, and his stepfather, while his brothers Corey and Nick reside with their father Sam.
- 3
Institutionalization
Due to his ongoing struggles, Jimmy is placed in an institution where his condition is monitored. However, this only further alienates him from his family and his aspirations.
Where:Institution
- 4
Corey Breaks Jimmy Out
Corey, determined to help his brother, orchestrates a daring breakout from the institution. Together, the pair begins their journey to California, a place Jimmy dreams of going.
- 5
Hiring Putnam
Christine and her husband hire Putnam, a shady bounty hunter, to retrieve Jimmy. Putnam's competing interests lead to a chaotic chase as he seeks to capture the boys.
- 6
Meeting Haley
While on the run, Corey and Jimmy meet Haley, a girl traveling to Reno. She learns of Jimmy's incredible video game skills, dubbing him 'the Wizard' and persuading them to enter a tournament for a cash prize.
- 7
Hitchhiking Adventures
The trio starts hitchhiking to Los Angeles, hustling people out of money by demonstrating Jimmy’s video game prowess along the way. Their journey becomes a test of their friendship and determination.
- 8
Encountering Lucas
Upon arriving in Reno, they meet Lucas Barton, a confident gamer boasting about his Power Glove. Lucas also intends to enter the video game tournament, ramping up the competition.
Where:Reno
- 9
Training in Reno
With help from a truck driver named Spanky, the group utilizes their gambling winnings to train Jimmy at local arcades. They focus on honing his skills on Nintendo PlayChoice-10 machines.
Where:Reno
- 10
Putnam's Pursuit
As the tournament draws near, Putnam manages to track down the boys, capturing and releasing Jimmy in a series of frantic encounters. This adds tension to their goal of competing.
Show the other 5 events of The Wizard Hide the last 5 events
- 11
Tournament Day
At Universal Studios Hollywood, Jimmy competes in the 'Video Armageddon' tournament. He engages in a preliminary round of Ninja Gaiden, securing a spot in the finals.
Where:Universal Studios Hollywood
- 12
Final Round Challenge
During the final round of the tournament, Jimmy faces off against Lucas and another finalist in Super Mario Bros. 3, a game yet to be released in the U.S. This moment is a culmination of his journey.
Where:Universal Studios Hollywood
- 13
Victory at the Tournament
In an exhilarating finish, Jimmy discovers a Warp Whistle that helps him win the tournament moments before time runs out. His victory earns him the $50,000 cash prize, showcasing his talent.
Where:Universal Studios Hollywood
- 14
A Moment of Remembrance
On their way home, the family stops at the Cabazon Dinosaurs. Here, Jimmy leaves a cherished picture of Jennifer in one of the dinosaurs, symbolizing his desire to connect with her memory.
Where:Cabazon Dinosaurs
- 15
Farewell to Haley
As they prepare to head home, Haley shares a bittersweet farewell with Jimmy, kissing him gently on the cheek. This moment marks the end of their adventures and a budding friendship.
Who Are the Main Characters in The Wizard?
4 characters, among them Jimmy Woods (Luke Edwards), Corey Woods (Fred Savage) and Haley Brooks (Jenny Lewis): who each one is and the part they play in the story. Every profile links to the actor’s page.
-
Jimmy Woods (Luke Edwards)
Played by Luke Edwards
Jimmy is a young boy struggling with the emotional aftermath of his twin sister's death. His journey reflects the character's deep sensitivity and innate talent, particularly in video gaming. Despite his challenges with mental health, he showcases resilience and an undeniable passion for gaming, which becomes a pathway toward healing.
- 👦 Kid
- 🎮 Gamer
- 💔 Sensitive
-
Corey Woods (Fred Savage)
Played by Fred Savage
Corey is Jimmy's older brother, who takes on the role of protector and motivator. He displays strong determination as he breaks Jimmy out from the institution and supports his brother's dream of participating in the tournament. Corey's character embodies loyalty and courage, often navigating the challenges of their tumultuous family dynamics.
- 👦 Brother
- 💪 Brave
- 🚀 Adventurer
- HB
Haley Brooks (Jenny Lewis)
Played by Jenny Lewis
Haley is a spirited girl who joins Corey and Jimmy on their adventure. Her character brings richness to the story, showcasing ambition and a desire for a better life, as she hopes to help her father through the prize money. Haley is supportive and resourceful, adding depth to the trio's camaraderie.
- 👧 Friend
- 🌟 Ambitious
- 💖 Supportive
-
Nick Woods (Christian Slater)
Played by Christian Slater
Nick is another of Jimmy's brothers, caught in the complexity of family loyalty and estrangement. His character showcases a desire to reconnect with Jimmy while navigating the difficulties imposed by their family situation. Nick embodies a blend of rebellion and care as he searches for his brother.
- 👦 Brother
- 🎸 Rebellious
- 🤔 Caring
Where and When Is The Wizard Set?
The Wizard is set in California, Reno, Universal Studios Hollywood and Cabazon Dinosaurs. Here is why the place matters to the story.
When
The film is set in a contemporary period reflective of the late 1980s, characterized by the rise of video game culture. This era featured the burgeoning popularity of arcade gaming and the introduction of home consoles, which shaped the interactions and experiences of the young characters in the story.
Where
California, Reno, Universal Studios Hollywood, Cabazon Dinosaurs
The movie takes place across various locations in the United States, highlighting the journey of the main characters as they run away to California. Reno serves as a key stop where the trio trains and prepares for the video game tournament. Universal Studios Hollywood is notable as the venue for the 'Video Armageddon' tournament, adding an entertainment flair, while the Cabazon Dinosaurs represent a nostalgic tourist attraction.
- 🌍 Locations
- 🎡 Entertainment
What Are the Themes of The Wizard?
3 ideas the story keeps returning to, among them Loss, Competition and Friendship.
-
01
Loss
The theme of loss permeates throughout the film, particularly through the character of Jimmy, who grapples with the tragic death of his twin sister. This trauma affects not only his behavior but also the dynamics within his family, leading to a sense of disconnection and the subsequent journey to heal and reconnect.
-
02
Competition
Competition is a significant theme as the characters strive to win the 'Video Armageddon' tournament. It highlights not only the competitive spirit present in gaming but also serves as a vehicle for the characters to prove themselves and their worth in the face of societal expectations and personal struggles.
-
03
Friendship
The bonds of friendship are essential to the narrative as Corey, Jimmy, and Haley support each other on their adventurous quest. Their unity serves as a source of strength, showcasing how friendship can help individuals overcome obstacles, build confidence, and foster healing.
What Kind of Film Is The Wizard?
Hopeful in tone, with steady pacing and a straightforward story, going by the plot summary.
- Tone
- Hopeful
- Pacing
- Steady
- Story
- Straightforward
- Intensity
- Medium
- Ending
- Bittersweet
A heartfelt 80s adventure that balances the weight of childhood grief with an exciting cross-country road trip, culminating in a bittersweet victory and a tender moment of healing.
- hopeful
- adventurous
- heartfelt
- nostalgic
- grieving
- tender
- brotherhood
- grief and loss
- road trip
- video games
Content notes: child endangerment, institutionalization, traumatic death of a sibling.
Quiz
How well do you remember The Wizard? Test yourself on the story.
