What Is Totally Awesome About?
The premise of Totally Awesome in 325 words, with nothing given away. The full story follows below.
In a neon‑slick world that feels ripped straight from an ’80s music video, the Gunderson family rolls into a small town seeking a fresh start. The film rolls out its high‑contrast palette of bright lights, synth‑driven humor, and tongue‑in‑cheek nostalgia, inviting the audience to feel both the excitement of a cross‑country move and the oddly comforting hum of a bygone era. The tone balances goofy wit with the earnest anxiety of teenage life, making every hallway and backyard feel simultaneously familiar and exaggerated.
Charlie arrives as the oldest sibling, a boyish charmer who instantly finds himself on the lower rung of the high‑school popularity ladder. He quickly becomes aware of the unspoken hierarchies that rule the student body, while also navigating the restless pull of a budding crush on the campus’s most sought‑after girl. Across the hall, Lori discovers a town that has outlawed the very thing she loves most—dance—prompting her to seek out hidden spaces where rhythm can still be expressed. Meanwhile, Max is drawn to the house’s dusty computer, a piece of technology that seems to whisper possibilities far beyond the town’s sleepy borders.
The school’s social landscape vibrates with quirky characters who blur the line between mentor and confidant. An enigmatic Japanese gardener, Yamagashi, offers a calm, methodical approach to practice that intrigues Charlie, while Billie, a perceptive friend, quietly observes the shifting dynamics and offers guidance without fanfare. The story also hints at a charismatic janitor with a dance‑floor past, whose presence adds a layer of rebellious charm to Lori’s quest for self‑expression.
Together, the siblings’ divergent passions—pop‑culture rivalry, clandestine dance battles, teenage romance, and a secretive scientific curiosity—interweave to create a vivid portrait of adolescence caught between tradition and the yearning for individuality. The film’s humor leans heavily on exaggerated ’80s clichés, yet beneath the sparkle lies a heartfelt exploration of how a family adapts, discovers hidden talents, and learns to carve out their own place in an unfamiliar world.
What Happens in Totally Awesome?
The complete story of Totally Awesome, from the first scene to the last, in 995 words (about 4 minutes). Spoilers throughout. Names in the text link to 8 cast member pages.
Spoilers ahead
Ben Stein, Ben Stein introduces the film as a long-lost comedy from the 1980s, gently hinting that a lot of the humor may land differently in 2006. The opening frames set a breezy, road-trippy tone, as the Gunderson family heads off on a cross-country journey toward a new home. On this voyage, Charlie Gunderson, Mikey Day, is portrayed as boyishly confident, with a smile that masks a restless curiosity about life beyond his small-town orbit. His sister Lori Gunderson, Dominique Swain, brings artistry and grace to the mix, while their younger sibling Maxamillion Gunderson, Trevor Heins, occupies a world of thought with a razor-sharp intelligence that hints at bigger things simmering beneath the surface.
From the very first day of school in their new town, Charlie discovers that popularity is a fragile thing. He is pegged as the least popular senior, a label that sticks in the social tapestry of his new environment. In the midst of this, Billie—an amiable, observant friend—offers to show him the ropes and gives him an illuminating crash course in the town’s clique dynamics. The quick, social calculus of who fits where becomes a minor but persistent obstacle in Charlie’s attempt to carve out a place for himself, and the interaction underscores a broader theme of how quickly social status can shape a teenager’s choices and confidence.
Meanwhile, Lori’s arrival stirs another kind of rebellion. She is stunned to learn dancing is banned in the town, a suppression that clashes with her blossoming talent and love of movement. The only sanctioned outlet for rhythm and release seems to be the clandestine dance sessions held in the garage of Gabriel, the town’s janitor and a former dance instructor. Gabriel, played by Chris Kattan, becomes a pivotal figure in Lori’s plan to revive dancing in their community. Lori’s clandestine outings, propelled by a growing affection for Gabriel, set off a chain of clever moves designed to reintroduce a sense of freedom and self-expression through dance.
At the same time, Charlie channels his energy into winning the attention of Kimberly, the popular girl who captures the imagination of many of his peers. Kimberly is embodied by Brittany Daniel, and she is linked, in the narrative, with her athletic boyfriend Kipp, portrayed by Joey Kern. The plot threads weave together as Charlie agrees to take on a high-stakes challenge: he vows to outdo Kipp in the upcoming school decathlon, a contest that tests physical prowess, strategy, and a growing sense of personal commitment. Billie quietly harbors her own unspoken feelings for Charlie, adding a layer of quiet longing to the social dynamics that drive the character interactions.
The town’s rhythms are further complicated by the arrival of a mysteriously capable mentor to Charlie. The story frames a training arc that pairs him with Yamagashi, the discreet Japanese gardener whose meticulous, almost technical approach to practice helps Charlie push past self-doubt and reach for something beyond his current limits. Yamagashi is brought to life on screen by James Hong, whose presence adds a note of wry wisdom to the athletic struggle at the heart of Charlie’s quest. This mentoring thread blends with the social stakes of school popularity, as Charlie tries to translate his effort on the field into a move that might win Kimberly’s attention and perhaps alter the town’s social map.
As the Gunderson siblings navigate these personal quests, Max’s story runs on a parallel, almost technocratic track. The highly advanced home computer that Max works on becomes a magnet for attention, eventually drawing the gaze of the CIA. Max’s focus and ingenuity hint at larger implications beyond the town’s social dances, suggesting that the family’s move is about more than just a new address; it’s about stepping into a broader world of information and possibility. This strand of the plot complements the comedic surface with a sense of curiosity and mystery, underscoring how a family’s ordinary transition can intersect with extraordinary interests.
Throughout the film, the narration provided by Ben Stein anchors a wink at nostalgia, as the opening frames remind viewers that this story is a reminder of a bygone era’s humor—an effect that becomes even more pronounced as the characters chase their dreams in a town that socializes around rules, reputations, and the occasional rebellious surge of dance. The interplay between the dated jokes and the timeless ambitions of adolescence creates a tonal balance that the film leans into, balancing warmth with humor while keeping a steady sense of curiosity about where each character will land as their cross-country journey unfolds.
In this ensemble coming-of-age tapestry, the Gunderson family embodies different facets of growth: Charlie’s bid to gain social footing and romantic interest; Lori’s quiet resistance to a restricted culture and her bold collaboration with a former dancer in Gabriel; Max’s quiet revolution through his computer that hints at a future beyond the town’s borders; and Billie’s perceptive, sometimes unspoken loyalties that highlight the complexity of teenage friendships. The film gathers its energy from these interlacing threads, presenting a world where ambition meets tradition, where covert dances in a garage become acts of defiance, and where a cross-country trip becomes a journey not just across miles but toward a more defined sense of self.
As the credits roll on this offbeat comedy, the film’s mood lingers with the sense that humor, nostalgia, and a dash of mischief can still find a way to unfold in a world that has moved on since the 1980s. The characters leave an imprint of resilience: Charlie learning to navigate a new social ecosystem with the help of friends and mentors, Lori defiantly restoring a form of expression that the town tried to suppress, and Max pushing the boundaries of what a single home computer can illuminate for a curious mind. It’s a story about adaptation, reinvention, and the small moments of discovery that come when a family dares to chase what truly matters, even if the world around them isn’t quite ready for it.
Totally Awesome Timeline: Every Key Event in Order
12 key events in the order they happen, from “Opening framing by Ben Stein” to “Dancing revival plan moves forward”. 11 events name a place, across 8 locations.
- 1
Opening framing by Ben Stein
Ben Stein introduces the film as a long-lost comedy from the 1980s. He notes that many jokes feel dated once the story plays out in 2006, setting a retro tone for what follows. The meta framing primes the audience for a nostalgia-heavy, lighthearted ride.
When:Opening
- 2
Gunderson family hits the road to a new town
The Gunderson family leaves their old home and begins a cross-country drive toward a new town. The journey sets up each character's expectations for life in the new place. The trip also establishes the family's dynamics and individual aspirations.
When:During road trip Where:On the road
- 3
Charlie's first day of school; singled out
On the first day, Charlie is singled out as the least popular senior, making him feel isolated. Billie, an awkward but kind outcast, approaches him and offers to show him the ropes and explain the town's clique system. Charlie starts to see the social landscape that will shape his high school experience.
When:First day Where:School
- 4
Billie teaches Charlie the clique system
Billie provides him with a crash course on social groups, teaching him how popularity shifts and who rules the halls. The quick lesson reshapes Charlie's understanding of the school's dynamics.
When:Soon after first day Where:School
- 5
Dancing is banned; Lori discovers clandestine sessions
Lori finds out that dancing is banned in the town, with the only outlets hidden in clandestine garage sessions. The discovery hints at a subculture ready to challenge the town's rules.
When:Early in town life Where:Town
- 6
Lori sneaks out to Gabriel's garage for secret dances
Despite being forbidden, Lori sneaks out to attend Gabriel's secret dances and grows close to the warm-hearted former dance instructor. Her feelings for Gabriel deepen and push them toward a plan to change things.
When:Soon after discovery Where:Gabriel's Garage
- 7
Lori and Gabriel plot to revive dancing around town
Lori and Gabriel hatch a clever plan to usher in a new era of dancing around town. They intend to challenge the ban and bring dancing back into everyday life. The duo begins coordinating efforts to rally support and defy the rules.
When:Early plan stage Where:Gabriel's Garage
- 8
Charlie plans to win Kimberly via decathlon
Charlie vows to win the heart of Kimberly by challenging her athletic boyfriend, Kipp, in the upcoming school decathlon. This plan pits him against established social and athletic rivalries and puts his own popularity to the test. The competition becomes a focal point for his maturation in the new town.
When:Approaching decathlon Where:School
- 9
Billie trains with Yamagashi
Billie begins a rigorous training regimen with the Japanese gardener Yamagashi, sharpening his physical and strategic skills. The mentorship adds a quirky but essential layer to his character and to the school's social machinations.
When:Mid-story Where:Yamagashi's Garden
- 10
Max's computer project attracts CIA attention
Max continues to tinker with a highly advanced home computer, a project with potentially far-reaching implications. The growing tech intrigue catches the attention of the CIA, adding a thriller-like wrinkle to the coming-of-age story.
When:During the move Where:Gunderson Home
- 11
Family wrestles with adjusting to new life
As the family navigates the move, they struggle to adjust to new routines, schools, and expectations. Each member faces personal goals while the town's evolving dance culture and Max's project pull the family in new directions.
When:Early in move Where:New Town
- 12
Dancing revival plan moves forward
The plan to unleash dancing on the town is now in motion, threatening to upend the town's conservative norms. The outcome remains uncertain, underscoring the film's blend of humor, romance, and ambition.
When:Climax / ongoing Where:Town Center
Who Are the Main Characters in Totally Awesome?
10 characters, among them Deb Gunderson (Lucie Guest), Charlie Gunderson (Mikey Day) and Lori Gunderson (Dominique Swain): who each one is and the part they play in the story. Every profile links to the actor’s page.
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Deb Gunderson (Lucie Guest)
Played by Lucie Guest
The family matriarch who keeps the move on track while balancing warmth with practicality. She supports her children's dreams but also anchors them in reality as they navigate a new town. Deb's nurturing presence helps hold the family together amid the chaos of adolescence and change.
- 👪 Family
- 🧭 Supportive
- 🤝 Resilience
- CG
Charlie Gunderson (Mikey Day)
Played by Mikey Day
Boyishly charming but initially the least popular senior, Charlie grapples with fitting in while trying to win Kimberly's heart. He is bold, hopeful, and often underestimated, using his drive to push for personal goals. His journey reflects the tension between popularity and authenticity.
- 🎯 Ambition
- 🧭 Identity
- 😂 Humor
- LG
Lori Gunderson (Dominique Swain)
Played by Dominique Swain
A blossoming dancer who defies the town's dance ban, Lori is passionate, determined, and willing to take risks for her art. Her evolving relationship with Gabriel deepens her understanding of performance and independence. She embodies the conflict between conformity and self-expression.
- 💃 Dance
- 🎯 Ambition
- 💬 Dialogue
- MG
Maxamillion Gunderson (Trevor Heins)
Played by Trevor Heins
A highly intelligent and introverted inventor who works on a sophisticated home computer. His creativity attracts attention from powerful entities, hinting at a larger interest in his talents. Max's curiosity drives technological discovery even as it pulls him into dangerous intrigue.
- 🧠 Genius
- 💡 Creativity
- 🕵️♂️ Intrigue
- B(
Billie (Nicki Clyne)
Played by Nicki Clyne
A supportive, perceptive friend who guides Charlie through the tricky social landscape. Billie quietly pines for Charlie while keeping his best interests at heart. She embodies loyalty and genuine companionship in a world of cliques and pressure.
- 🤝 Friendship
- 💫 Crush
- 🗣️ Voice
-
Gabriel (Chris Kattan)
Played by Chris Kattan
The kindly janitor and clandestine dance instructor who quietly mentors Lori and others. He lights a spark for the town's forbidden dances, becoming a catalyst for action and rebellion. Gabriel's warmth masks a strategic approach to helping others express themselves.
- 🎭 Mentor
- 🕺 Rebellion
- 🔒 Secrets
- K(
Kimberly (Brittany Daniel)
Played by Brittany Daniel
Popular athlete and the object of Charlie's attention, Kimberly embodies the town's social hierarchy. Her relationship with Kipp challenges Charlie to prove himself in competition. She serves as a focal point around which romantic and athletic rivalries whirl.
- 🏃♀️ Sports
- 💕 Romance
- 👑 Status
- K(
Kipp (Joey Kern)
Played by Joey Kern
Kimberly's athletic boyfriend and a rival for Charlie's affection, Kipp excels in sports and embodies the town's competitive spirit. His presence heightens the stakes in the decathlon and in romance. He personifies the pressure of popularity and high school hierarchy.
- 🏆 Rivalry
- ⚽ Competition
- 🧭 Identity
-
Mr. Yamagashi (James Hong)
Played by James Hong
A patient Japanese gardener who becomes a tacit mentor to Charlie, offering discipline and technique as part of a rigorous training regime. His calm exterior masks a strategic approach to shaping the boys' skills. Yamagashi's guidance helps Charlie confront social challenges.
- 🧑🌾 Mentor
- 🧠 Discipline
- 🎯 Focus
-
Darnell (Tracy Morgan)
Played by Tracy Morgan
A humorous, warm member of the community who adds wit and lightness to the journey. Darnell's presence offers comic relief while underscoring the importance of friendship and belonging. He helps anchor the family within the town's quirky social web.
- 😂 Humor
- 👫 Friendship
- 🧭 Support
Where and When Is Totally Awesome Set?
Totally Awesome is set in Small-town America (Mid-2000s (around 2006)). Here is why the time and place matter to the story.
When
Mid-2000s (around 2006)
The events take place in a contemporary mid-2000s setting, with modern high school life and familiar technology of the era. The film uses a retro wink to the 1980s, shaping its humor through nostalgia. A subplot involving a home computer hints at the era’s growing curiosity about tech and surveillance.
Where
Small-town America
The story unfolds in a close-knit American town where a ban on dancing creates social friction and fuels secret gatherings. The Gundersons move into this new community, navigating a landscape of cliques, expectations, and evolving friendships. The town acts as a microcosm for adolescence, where family bonds and personal dreams are tested against prevailing norms.
- 🏙️ Small-town setting
- 🚫 Dance ban
- 👥 Community dynamics
What Are the Themes of Totally Awesome?
4 ideas the story keeps returning to, among them Coming of Age, Freedom of Expression and Innovation & Ambition.
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01
Coming of Age
A group of teens grapples with identity, friendships, and early romance as they adjust to a new town. Charlie’s struggle to fit in contrasts with Billie’s supportive friendship, highlighting the rollercoaster of popularity and belonging. Lori, Max, and the others pursue personal dreams while navigating the pressures of adolescence.
-
02
Freedom of Expression
Dancing is banned in the town, turning self-expression into an act of defiance. Lori and Gabriel drive a secret movement to reclaim dancing, challenging the town’s conformity. The clandestine garage sessions symbolize art as a form of resistance and personal freedom.
-
03
Innovation & Ambition
Max’s advanced home computer becomes a beacon of curiosity, drawing attention from powerful entities like the CIA. The kids pursue ambitious goals—Charlie in the decathlon, Lori in dance, Max in technology—despite obstacles. Their inventive plans underscore how ingenuity can challenge a resistant community.
-
04
Family & Community
The Gunderson family negotiates relocation, adjustment, and daily life as they settle into a new environment. Deb provides warmth and practicality while supporting her children’s dreams, illustrating the balance between family duties and personal aspirations. The town’s social fabric tests loyalty, humor, and resilience.
What Kind of Film Is Totally Awesome?
Light in tone, with fast pacing and a straightforward story, going by the plot summary.
- Tone
- Light
- Pacing
- Fast
- Story
- Straightforward
- Intensity
- Low
- Ending
- Happy
A fast-paced and exaggeratedly nostalgic comedy that feels like a playful, neon-soaked celebration of 1980s high school clichés, filled with lighthearted romance and quirky characters.
- nostalgic
- quirky
- lighthearted
- upbeat
- exaggerated
- youthful
- coming of age
- high school
- dance
- teen crushes
Quiz
How well do you remember Totally Awesome? Test yourself on the story.
