The idealistic young man looking to make his mark on the world finds meaning in the life story of President James A. Garfield. Prequel to the acclaimed screenplay THE GARFIELD GUY.

SYNOPSIS:

In this origin story, KICKING AND SCREAMING (1995) meets BOTTLEROCKET as the protagonist John, restless in his mundane job and looking for more meaning in his life, finds inspiration at the nearby memorial to President James A. Garfield and its curator, William.

As William provides John guidance to a more meaningful life, John also navigates life in his early 30's dealing with roommates and dating. A new roommate, Alec, joins the house where John lives with his best friend Chris. At first it appears Alec is just looking for a change of scenery from his hometown of Philadelphia but as time goes on John and Chris see Alec is in a depression from a recent broken engagement and step in to help.

A plan is arranged for John and Chris to help Alec retrieve his engagement ring with the help of local pawn shop owner and bookie Carl. As Alec gets his ring back and begins to move on, he starts writing a screenplay based on his experience observing John and Chris.

John has hopes he may have found a new business opportunity that he feels could change the trajectory of his life - taking over a brewery that is for sale. As John struggles to close the deal, Alec ends up helping John through his unlikely new friendship with Carl.

With Chris serving as comic relief and foil, Alec and John find kindred spirits in each other and realize that sometimes when you feel all is lost it may actually be the start of something beautiful.