St. Vincent Synopsis & Review: Plot Summary

🎯 Quick Overview

😅 Plot Summary – Badly Explained

A grumpy old man teaches a kid how to be a terrible influence, and somehow it’s heartwarming.

🍿 St. Vincent: Detailed Plot Synopsis

Vincent’s Chaotic Life

Vincent McKenna, a cantankerous Vietnam War veteran, lives a life of reckless abandon in Brooklyn. He’s burdened by gambling debts, drinks heavily, and maintains a relationship with Daka, a pregnant Russian prostitute. His life is disrupted when Maggie and her son, Oliver, move in next door, needing a babysitter.

An Unlikely Babysitter

With Maggie working long hours, she hires Vincent to watch Oliver after school for a fee. Vincent’s unconventional babysitting methods include trips to the racetrack, bars, and even introducing Oliver to Daka. Despite the questionable activities, an unexpected bond begins to form between the two.

Oliver’s Transformation

Oliver, who is bullied at his new Catholic school, learns self-defense from Vincent. He even picks a winning trifecta at the racetrack, helping Vincent pay off some debts. However, Vincent’s gambling addiction leads him to steal money from Oliver’s savings, further complicating their relationship.

⚠️ Spoilers and Ending Explained

🎬 Cast & Characters

• Vincent (Bill Murray): A grumpy, alcoholic Vietnam veteran who forms an unlikely friendship with his young neighbor while reluctantly babysitting him.
• Oliver (Jaeden Martell): A small, intelligent boy navigating his parents’ divorce who finds an unexpected mentor and friend in Vincent.
• Maggie (Melissa McCarthy): A hardworking single mother struggling with a divorce who relies on Vincent to care for her son, Oliver.
• Daka (Naomi Watts): A pregnant Russian prostitute with a good heart who maintains a complex relationship with Vincent.
• Brother Geraghty (Chris O’Dowd): Oliver’s Catholic school teacher who assigns the “Saints Among Us” project that reveals Vincent’s hidden qualities.
• Zucko (Terrence Howard): A loan shark to whom Vincent owes money, representing the dangerous consequences of Vincent’s lifestyle.

💬 Memorable Quotes

• Vincent: “I’m not a role model. I’m a guy who knows how to get things done.” – Vincent says this to Maggie when she questions his suitability as a babysitter, highlighting his unconventional approach to life.
• Vincent: “You gotta learn how to take a punch.” – Vincent advises Oliver on how to deal with bullies, encapsulating his tough-love approach to mentorship.
• Oliver: “Commitment, dedication, sacrifice. That’s what makes a saint.” – Oliver explains his choice of Vincent as a saint, demonstrating how he sees beyond Vincent’s flaws to his underlying virtues.
• Vincent: “You’re not at zero, you’re below zero.” – Vincent’s blunt assessment of Oliver’s social standing, reflecting his cynical worldview and direct communication style.

💰Box Office

• Budget: $13,000,000
• Domestic Gross: $44,137,712
• Worldwide Gross: $54,837,234

💥 St. Vincent Reviews

Personal Review

I really connected with St. Vincent. Bill Murray just nails the grumpy-but-lovable vibe. I loved how the movie showed that even people who seem like total messes can have a huge impact on your life. The scene where Oliver defends Vincent at school was so moving, I almost cried! It’s a feel-good movie that doesn’t feel fake, which is a rare thing.

• Who would enjoy:
  • “Fans of Bill Murray”
  • “Viewers who enjoy heartwarming dramedies”
  • “Those interested in stories about unconventional friendships”
  • “People who like movies set in New York City”
• Content warnings ⚠:
  • “Strong language”
  • “Adult themes (alcoholism, gambling, prostitution)”
  • “Brief drug use”
  • “Some suggestive content”

Professional Reviews

• Rolling Stone: “Bill Murray delivers a nuanced performance as a flawed but ultimately decent man. The film avoids easy sentimentality, finding genuine humor and heart in the unlikely friendship.
• The New York Times: “St. Vincent transcends its predictable plot with sharp writing and compelling performances. Melissa McCarthy shines in a more dramatic role, and Naomi Watts adds unexpected comedic flair.
• Variety: “While Bill Murray’s performance is undeniably captivating, the film struggles with a formulaic narrative. The supporting cast adds depth, but the overall impact is somewhat diluted by predictable plot points.

Audience Reactions

Bill Murray’s performance was phenomenal and truly showcased his range as an actor.: Viewers consistently praised Bill Murray’s acting and the heartwarming story.

The unexpected friendship between Vincent and Oliver was the heart of the film.: The chemistry between the lead actors made the movie relatable and engaging.

Overall Consensus: St. Vincent is a heartwarming dramedy elevated by strong performances, particularly from Bill Murray, though some critics found the plot somewhat predictable.

Awards

🛠️ Behind the Scenes

• “The role of Vincent was specifically written for Bill Murray, and the film’s tone was heavily influenced by his comedic style and dramatic capabilities.”
• “Naomi Watts spent time at a Russian spa and watched YouTube videos to perfect her Russian accent for the role of Daka.”
• “Jaeden Martell, who plays Oliver, was chosen after a nationwide search for a young actor who could portray both vulnerability and intelligence.”

🖥️ How to Watch St. Vincent?

St. Vincent is available for streaming on various platforms. You can find it on Prime Video with a subscription, or rent/purchase it digitally on Apple TV, Google Play, and Vudu. Check your local listings for availability on cable on-demand services.

🎥 Similar Movies

If you enjoyed St. Vincent, you might like these similar films:

• About a Boy (2002): Explores a similar theme of an unlikely friendship between a young boy and an immature adult, both benefiting from the relationship.
• Gran Torino (2008): Features a grumpy older man forming an unexpected bond with a younger neighbor, learning from each other and finding redemption.
• As Good as It Gets (1997): Similar character arc of a curmudgeonly man learning to be a better person through his interactions with others.
• Bad Words (2013): Features an adult male behaving inappropriately with children, which makes a comedy in the end.

🛒 St. Vincent Related Products

• St. Vincent [Blu-ray]: Own St. Vincent on Blu-ray and enjoy the film in stunning high definition with exclusive bonus content, including behind-the-scenes footage and interviews with the cast.
• Chrysler LeBaron Town & Country Convertible Model Car: Own a detailed replica of Vincent’s iconic Chrysler LeBaron Town & Country convertible. This collectible model car is a perfect way to remember your favorite scenes from the film.
• The Saint Name Meaning Vintage T-Shirt: Show off your appreciation for Vincent’s character with this cool Saint-related T-shirt.
• Vietnam War Veteran Hat: Wear a Vietnam War Veteran Hat in honor of Vincent’s service. Made of high-quality materials, the hat is a great gift for a special someone.

🎧 Soundtrack

St. Vincent features a captivating soundtrack that enhances the movie’s atmosphere and emotional impact. Here are some notable tracks:

• “Shelter from the Storm” – performed by Bob Dylan
• “One More Cup of Coffee” – performed by Bob Dylan
• “Everyone Hides” – performed by Tweedy

You can find the complete soundtrack on Amazon Music and Apple Music.

🤨 FAQ

🔥 Bonus Content

St. Vincent | Sound Advice

Want to see St. Vincent in an hilarious setting? Check out this comedy sketch where she plays off a media coach in a witty and engaging way.

SNL Promo: Andy Samberg and St. Vincent

Curious to see how St. Vincent’s personality translates to the SNL stage? This promo gives you a sneak peek and will leave you eager for more.

SNL Promo: Andy Samberg and St. Vincent

Want more laughs from St. Vincent on SNL? This promo features a different angle on her comedic performance that will keep you entertained.

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