🎯 Quick Overview
Trailer
- Director: Jonathan Levine
- Genre: Comedy, Romance
- Release year: 2019
- Runtime (length): 2h 5min
- IMDb rating: 6.8/10 (125K votes)
- Rotten Tomatoes: 81%
😅 Plot Summary – Badly Explained
A journalist who looks like he shops at a dumpster woos his former babysitter who’s about to be president, and somehow it works because… reasons?
🍿 Long Shot: Detailed Plot Synopsis
Fred Quits His Job
Fred Flarsky, an investigative journalist, quits his job at a Brooklyn newspaper after it’s bought by media mogul Parker Wembley, whose ethics clash with Fred’s. Unable to find another job, Fred is feeling lost and directionless, representing a relatable struggle against corporate control of media.

Reconnecting with Charlotte
Fred’s friend, Lance, takes him to a charity event where he runs into Charlotte Field, now a successful Secretary of State and his former babysitter. A spark of recognition reignites, and Charlotte, impressed by Fred’s writing, hires him as her speechwriter for her upcoming presidential campaign. This sets the stage for their unlikely romance amidst the high-stakes world of politics.

Romance on the Campaign Trail
As Fred and Charlotte work closely together, traveling the world and navigating political challenges, they begin to develop feelings for each other. Their relationship blossoms amidst global negotiations and unexpected incidents, forcing them to confront their differences and consider the implications of their unconventional romance. This creates a classic ‘opposites attract’ dynamic with a political twist.

Blackmail and Choices
Charlotte’s campaign is threatened when President Chambers and Wembley blackmail her with a compromising video of Fred. She initially agrees to their demands, causing a rift with Fred. However, Charlotte ultimately chooses to stand her ground, revealing the blackmail and embracing her relationship with Fred, showing a willingness to sacrifice political gain for personal integrity.

⚠️ Spoilers and Ending Explained
🎬 Cast & Characters
- Charlotte Field (Charlize Theron): The accomplished and influential U.S. Secretary of State decides to run for president and hires her childhood crush as a speechwriter.
- Fred Flarsky (Seth Rogen): A passionate and outspoken journalist who gets hired as a speechwriter for his former babysitter and childhood crush.
- Lance (O’Shea Jackson Jr.): Fred’s supportive and successful best friend who offers him guidance and perspective.
- Maggie Millikin (June Diane Raphael): Charlotte’s pragmatic and disapproving campaign manager who is skeptical of Fred.
- President Chambers (Bob Odenkirk): The shallow, former TV star president who decides not to run for reelection to pursue a career in movies.
- Parker Wembley (Andy Serkis): A ruthless media mogul who buys Fred’s newspaper and later blackmails Charlotte.
💬 Memorable Quotes
- Fred Flarsky: “Okay, but you dressed me like Cap’n Crunch’s Grindr date, so I’m going to drink and enjoy the part.” – Fred says this when he’s wearing a ridiculous traditional Swedish outfit as a joke played at his expense.
- Maggie Millikin: “He looks like a homeless hobo.” – Maggie says this when Charlotte tells her that she wants to hire Fred to write her speeches.
💰Box Office
- Budget: $40,000,000
- Domestic Gross: $30,316,271
- Worldwide Gross: $53,873,809
💥 Long Shot Reviews
Personal Review
I really enjoyed Long Shot! I went in expecting a typical rom-com, but I was pleasantly surprised. Charlize Theron and Seth Rogen were hilarious together, and the movie had some genuinely funny moments. The scene where Charlotte negotiates a hostage situation while high was pure comedic gold. Plus, it’s cool to see a movie with a strong female lead who isn’t afraid to be funny and flawed. Definitely recommend if you’re looking for a lighthearted, entertaining movie night.
- Who would enjoy:
- “Fans of romantic comedies”
- “Viewers interested in political satire”
- “People who enjoy Seth Rogen and Charlize Theron’s acting”
- “Audiences looking for a feel-good movie with a message”
- Content warnings ⚠:
- “Strong language”
- “Suggestive content”
- “Drug use”
- “Mature themes”
Professional Reviews
- Variety: “Long Shot is surprisingly funny and charming, with Theron and Rogen delivering great performances. While the plot is somewhat predictable, the chemistry between the leads and sharp writing make it a worthwhile watch.
- The Hollywood Reporter: “Though it tackles some interesting political themes, Long Shot ultimately relies on tired rom-com tropes. Theron shines, but Rogen’s schtick wears thin, and the film’s runtime feels excessive.
- Entertainment Weekly: “Charlize Theron and Seth Rogen have surprisingly great chemistry, and the film manages to be both funny and thought-provoking. Some of the political satire lands well, making it a smart and entertaining date movie.
Audience Reactions
Unexpectedly hilarious chemistry between Charlize Theron and Seth Rogen.: The funny, quirky romantic moments and political satire made the movie stand out.
O’Shea Jackson Jr. steals every scene he’s in with his comedic timing.: The supporting cast elevates the film with their performances.
Overall Consensus: Long Shot is a surprisingly charming and funny rom-com with great chemistry between the leads and some clever political commentary. Some find it predictable and too long, but many enjoy its lighthearted and entertaining nature.
Awards
🛠️ Behind the Scenes
- “Andy Serkis created an elaborate prosthetic makeup design for his character, Parker Wembley, that required hours to apply each day, even though the filmmakers had not requested it.”
- “The film uses diagonal billing for Charlize Theron and Seth Rogen, a unique way of crediting the lead actors.”
🖥️ How to Watch Long Shot?
Long Shot is available for streaming on platforms such as Prime Video, where you may be able to rent or purchase it. You can also find it on Apple TV and other digital retailers. Check your local listings for cable on-demand options as well. For physical copies, retailers like Amazon, Best Buy, and Target usually carry the Blu-ray and DVD versions.

🎥 Similar Movies
If you enjoyed Long Shot, you might like these similar films:
- The American President (1995): Features a similar dynamic of a powerful political figure falling for someone outside of their usual circle.
- Dave (1993): A romantic comedy where an ordinary man becomes involved in politics and forms a connection with the First Lady.
- Knocked Up (2007): Another Seth Rogen comedy where an unlikely couple finds love, balancing humor with genuine emotion.
🛒 Long Shot Related Products
- Long Shot Movie Poster: Officially licensed Long Shot movie poster, capturing the essence of the film’s humor and romance. Perfect for fans looking to decorate their space with a piece of movie memorabilia.
- Seth Rogen Comedy Collection: A collection of Seth Rogen’s funniest movies, including Long Shot, Knocked Up, and This Is the End. Enjoy hours of laughter with this digital download bundle.
- Funko Pop! Charlize Theron as Charlotte Field: A limited edition Funko Pop! figure featuring Charlize Theron as Charlotte Field in Long Shot. A must-have for collectors and fans of the movie.
- Screenplay of Long Shot Movie: Get the real essence of the movie, including all dialogues. It is an absolute must have for fans who would love to see a world-class production screenplay.
🎧 Soundtrack
Long Shot features a captivating soundtrack that enhances the movie’s atmosphere and emotional impact. Here are some notable tracks:
- “Smoke ’em While You Can” – performed by Thunderfist
- “One in a Million” – performed by Aaliyah
- “Motown Philly” – performed by Boyz II Men
You can find the complete soundtrack on Amazon Music and Apple Music.
🤨 FAQ
No, Long Shot is a fictional romantic comedy, although it incorporates elements of real-world politics and media. The characters and specific events are not based on actual people or occurrences.
Long Shot was filmed in various locations, including Montreal, Canada, Cartagena, Colombia and locations in the United States. These diverse settings reflect the film’s globetrotting plot and international political themes.
The title ‘Long Shot’ refers to the unlikely nature of the relationship between Charlotte Field, a highly accomplished politician, and Fred Flarsky, a somewhat unconventional journalist. It also alludes to a specific scene involving Fred, making the title a double entendre. Consider the odds!
🔥 Bonus Content
Charlize Theron – “Long Shot” & Singing Karaoke for the Africa Outreach Project | The Daily Show
Curious about Charlize Theron’s charitable work and her thoughts on ‘Long Shot’? Check out this engaging interview on The Daily Show!
Charlize Theron Swears Seth Rogen Turns Into Einstein When He Smokes Weed
Looking for a entertaining behind-the-scenes scoop on ‘Long Shot’? Watch this hilarious interview with Charlize Theron on The Tonight Show as she talks about her experiences working with Seth Rogen!
Charlize Theron Shows Seth Rogen & Ellen Her Make Out Tips
Want to know how Charlize Theron perfected her kissing skills? Watch this fun clip from The Ellen Show, where she gives a live demonstration with Seth Rogen!
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