Dodsworth

Live Action Feature. Romance / Marriage Story / Adaptation

Adapted from the novel by Sinclair Lewis.

Logline: Sam Dodsworth, a reluctant traveler, sets out on a post-retirement vacation with his wife, only to find that they might no longer be right for each other. 

Synopsis: Sam Dodsworth, a successful and practical home builder from the Midwest, retires early and embarks on a European tour with his restless and status-conscious wife, Penny. While Sam embodies American industriousness and sincerity, Penny longs for sophistication, culture, and romance; ideals she believes she’ll find abroad. Sam goes along with the plan in the hope that he can overcome some of his own stodginess. 

As they travel through Europe, their contrasting values deepen the rift between them. Penny becomes increasingly absorbed in the allure of European society, pursuing younger men and chasing the glamour she feels her life has lacked. Sam, at first understanding in spite of being hurt, begins to question not only his marriage but also his identity and the meaning of success.

Gradually, Sam’s journey turns into one of personal rediscovery. Amid heartbreak and disillusionment, he learns to appreciate life beyond material achievement and to seek authenticity rather than approval. His bravery and newfound zest for life lead him to a life he never thought would be possible, and a new love he’d always longed for.