Discover why the 2012 indie rom-com 'Stuck in Love,' featuring a star-studded cast, has become a cherished, unofficial Thanksgiving classic for one viewer, celebrating the awkward in-between moments of life and inspiring personal growth.
For the past decade, the author has made 'Stuck in Love,' a 2012 indie rom-com and directorial debut of Josh Boone, an annual Thanksgiving tradition. Despite not being marketed as a holiday film, its themes of reflection, transition, and imperfect people striving resonate deeply with the spirit of the 'in-between' holiday. The movie boasts a stellar cast including Greg Kinnear, Lily Collins, Nat Wolff, Jennifer Connelly, and Logan Lerman. It centers on Bill Borgens, an unhappily divorced novelist, and his two children, cynical Sam and romantic Rusty, as they navigate love, ambition, and moving on. The narrative opens and closes on Thanksgiving, highlighting the characters' journey of growth as they step out of their comfort zones – Sam softening her cynical view on love, Rusty pursuing his crush, and Bill attempting to move past his ex-wife. The author reflects on how the film's nostalgic early-2010s indie sensibility and relatable characters resonated through different life stages, from angsty high school years to present-day self-reflection. Ultimately, 'Stuck in Love' is celebrated as a genuine joy that awakens hope, encourages active living, and serves as a powerful, full-circle narrative about new beginnings, solidifying its place as a personal Thanksgiving classic.
