Going the Distance Story Analysis: Plot Summary & Character Arcs
Deep dive into the narrative structure and emotional journey of Going the Distance.
Quick Plot Summary: Released in 2010, Going the Distance is a Comedy, Drama, Romance film directed by Nanette Burstein, written by Geoff LaTulippe. The narrative brings laughter through sharp writing and comedic timing, providing amusement while touching on deeper societal themes. It provides a scannable look at the movie's central conflict involving Drew Barrymore as Erin Rankin Langford.
What Is the Story of Going the Distance?
The comedic structure relies on both situational humor and character-based comedy. Erin and Garrett are very much in love. When Erin moves to San Francisco to finish her journalism degree and Garrett stays behind in New York to work in the music industry, they gamely keep the romance alive with webcams and frequent-flyer miles. But just when it seems the lovers will soon be reunited, they each score a big break that could separate them for good. The production finds humor in relatable situations while maintaining narrative momentum. The jokes serve the story, with callbacks that reward attentive viewers.
How Is Going the Distance Structured?
- Opening Hook: Going the Distance's opening establishes the comedic tone through Drew Barrymore as Erin Rankin Langford's interactions, introducing the central conflict with humor and character quirks that Nanette Burstein layers throughout.
- Character Arc: The main character shows growth throughout the story, though some supporting characters could have been more fully realized. Drew Barrymore's arc is present but occasionally predictable.
- Climax & Resolution: The comedic climax ties together the recurring threads, with Drew Barrymore's storyline wrapping up predictably but entertainingly.