To leave the nest, some men just need a little push.|Mar. 10, 2006|United States|97 Min.|PG-13
Genre: Comedy
Description: Tripp, a 35-year-old man played by Matthew McConaughey, still resides with his parents, Al (Terry Bradshaw) and Sue (Kathy Bates), in Baltimore. His close friends, Demo (Bradley Cooper) and Ace (Justin Bartha), also remain in their childhood homes and appear content with their living situations. Tripp has had several casual relationships, but whenever he tires of a girlfriend, he invites her to his place. Upon discovering he still lives with his parents, the women promptly end the relationship.
Desperate to encourage Tripp to move out, Al and Sue learn from friends that they hired a professional to help their adult son leave home. Intrigued, they enlist Paula (Sarah Jessica Parker), a specialist who believes men stay with their parents due to low self-esteem. Paula’s method involves building a romantic connection to boost the man’s confidence, then shifting his attachment from his parents to her.
However, Paula quickly realizes Tripp doesn’t fit her usual profile. He has strong social skills, healthy self-esteem, and a fulfilling job. Despite an awkward encounter with his parents, Paula manages to prevent Tripp from breaking up with her and eventually becomes romantically involved with him. As their relationship progresses, both struggle with their growing emotions and seek advice from their friends.
Paula’s roommate, Kit (Zooey Deschanel), is critical of her unconventional career, suspecting it stems from a past heartbreak with a man who lived with his parents. Meanwhile, Paula is surprised to discover the true reason for Tripp’s living situation: his life fell apart after the sudden death of his fiancée, and his family has been his emotional refuge ever since.
When Ace uncovers Paula’s true intentions, he blackmails her into setting him up with Kit. Although Kit initially finds herself drawn to Demo, she and Ace eventually develop feelings for each other. Later, Ace reveals Paula’s secret to Demo, who informs Tripp. Furious, Tripp confronts his parents and ends his relationship with Paula.
Overwhelmed with guilt, Paula returns the money Al and Sue paid her. After a tense conversation, Tripp forgives his parents but remains unable to reconcile with Paula, hurt by her manipulation. The story explores themes of independence, love, and the complexities of relationships as the characters navigate their intertwined lives.
Cast director: Tom Dey
Cast actor: Matthew McConaughey, Sarah Jessica Parker, Zooey Deschanel, Justin Bartha, Bradley Cooper, Terry Bradshaw, Kathy Bates, Tyrel Jackson Williams, Katheryn Winnick, Patton Oswalt
Original name: Failure to Launch