Steve Jobs Synopsis & Review: Plot Summary

🎯 Quick Overview

😅 Plot Summary – Badly Explained

A control freak makes computers, yells at people, and eventually acknowledges his daughter.

🍿 Steve Jobs: Detailed Plot Synopsis

The Macintosh Launch (1984)

The film opens backstage at the 1984 launch of the Macintosh. Steve Jobs is a demanding and perfectionistic leader, clashing with his team over technical glitches, specifically the inability of the Mac to say ‘hello.’ He also confronts his ex-girlfriend, Chrisann Brennan, regarding their daughter Lisa, whom he denies paternity of, and argues with Steve Wozniak who wants him to acknowledge the Apple II team during the launch.

The NeXT Computer Launch (1988)

Four years later, Steve Jobs is preparing for the launch of his new company, NeXT. His relationship with Lisa remains strained, and he continues to deny her paternity, leading to further conflict with Chrisann. He also spars with Wozniak again, this time over Jobs’s contributions to computing history. Amidst the tension, Apple CEO John Sculley confronts Jobs about the circumstances of his departure from Apple.

The iMac Launch (1998)

A decade later, Jobs is back at Apple, now as CEO, preparing to launch the iMac. He’s learned that Lisa’s mother sold the house he bought for them, causing him to threaten to withhold Lisa’s college tuition. Joanna Hoffman confronts him about his behavior and past decisions. The film culminates with a reconciliation between Jobs and Lisa, hinting at a more stable future for their relationship.

⚠️ Spoilers and Ending Explained

🎬 Cast & Characters

• Steve Jobs (Michael Fassbender): The demanding and visionary co-founder of Apple, known for his innovative genius and complex personal relationships.
• Joanna Hoffman (Kate Winslet): The loyal and outspoken marketing executive who serves as Steve Jobs’s confidante and moral compass.
• Steve Wozniak (Seth Rogen): The humble and technically gifted co-founder of Apple, often overshadowed by Jobs’s charisma.
• John Sculley (Jeff Daniels): The former CEO of Apple who initially mentors Jobs but later clashes with him over the direction of the company.
• Lisa Brennan (Perla Haney-Jardine, Ripley Sobo, Makenzie Moss): Steve Jobs’s daughter, whose paternity he initially denies, leading to a strained and evolving relationship.

💬 Memorable Quotes

• Steve Jobs: “Musicians play their instruments. I play the orchestra.” – Jobs defends his role at Apple, emphasizing his leadership and vision rather than technical skills.
• Steve Jobs: “I am poorly made.” – Said to his daughter Lisa when he apologizes for his past behavior and acknowledges his flaws.
• Steve Wozniak: “It’s not binary. You can be decent and gifted at the same time.” – Wozniak expresses his frustration with Jobs’s tendency to be cruel and dismissive of others.
• John Sculley: “You want me to do for Apple what I did for Pepsi?” – John, recruited to be CEO of Apple, recognizes the revolutionary potential of Jobs’s vision.
• Steve Jobs: “People who know love know what we build.” – Jobs emphasizes the passion and dedication behind Apple’s products and the emotional connection they seek to create.

💰Box Office

• Budget: $30,000,000
• Domestic Gross: $17,766,658
• Worldwide Gross: $34,441,873

💥 Steve Jobs Reviews

Personal Review

I found ‘Steve Jobs’ to be a fascinating, albeit intense, experience. Fassbender completely embodies Jobs, making you both admire and despise him. The dialogue is sharp and relentless, keeping you on the edge of your seat. The scenes with his daughter were especially impactful, showing a vulnerable side to a seemingly impenetrable man. It’s not your typical biopic, but it’s a captivating character study that really stuck with me.

• Who would enjoy:
  • “Fans of Aaron Sorkin’s writing”
  • “Those interested in the history of Apple and Steve Jobs”
  • “Viewers who enjoy character-driven dramas”
  • “People who appreciate strong acting performances”
• Content warnings ⚠:
  • “Strong language”
  • “Brief drug references”
  • “Mature themes regarding family relationships”

Professional Reviews

• Rotten Tomatoes: “An electrifying portrait of an enigmatic man, Steve Jobs is a thrilling drama that benefits from Danny Boyle’s dynamic direction and Michael Fassbender’s mesmerizing performance.
• IGN: “Steve Jobs is a riveting character study, powered by dynamite performances from Michael Fassbender and Kate Winslet, and fueled by Aaron Sorkin’s trademark rapid-fire dialogue. Though occasionally over-the-top, it’s a compelling look at a complicated man.
• Rolling Stone: “Michael Fassbender is phenomenal as Steve Jobs. Danny Boyle directs with flair, capturing the intensity of Sorkin’s script. A must see

Audience Reactions

The acting was superb, especially Michael Fassbender’s intense portrayal of Steve Jobs.: The performances were universally praised, particularly Fassbender, Winslet and Rogen.

Aaron Sorkin’s fast-paced dialogue and clever writing made the movie incredibly engaging.: Sorkin’s script was lauded for its wit and intelligence.

Overall Consensus: A compelling and well-acted character study, though some find the dramatic liberties and intense dialogue overwhelming.

Awards

1. Golden Globe (Best Supporting Actress)- 2016
2. BAFTA Film Award (Best Supporting Actress)- 2016
3. Critics’ Choice Movie Award (Best Supporting Actress)- 2016

🛠️ Behind the Scenes

• “The film is structured into three acts, each filmed in a different film format (16mm, 35mm, and digital) to reflect the advancement in Apple’s technology over the years.”
• “Christian Bale was originally cast as Steve Jobs but dropped out due to not feeling right for the part. Michael Fassbender was cast later.”
• “Aaron Sorkin, the screenwriter, is known for his fast-paced, dialogue-heavy style, evident in films like ‘The Social Network’ and TV shows like ‘The West Wing’.”

🖥️ How to Watch Steve Jobs?

Steve Jobs (2015) is available for streaming rental or purchase on various platforms such as Apple TV, Google Play Movies, YouTube, and Amazon Prime Video. Check your local listings as availability may vary by region. Unfortunately, it is not currently available on subscription-based streaming services.

🎥 Similar Movies

If you enjoyed Steve Jobs, you might like these similar films:

• The Social Network (2010): Also written by Aaron Sorkin, it explores the creation of Facebook and the complex personalities involved, with similar themes of ambition and personal cost.
• Pirates of Silicon Valley (1999): Depicts the early days of Apple and Microsoft and the rivalry between Steve Jobs and Bill Gates, providing historical context.
• The Aviator (2004): Chronicles the life of Howard Hughes, another visionary who was eccentric, driven, and had a complex personal life while revolutionizing an industry.
• Moneyball (2011): Another Sorkin script that is not directly related but about challenging the establishment.

🛒 Steve Jobs Related Products

• Steve Jobs [Blu-ray]: Own the critically acclaimed film on Blu-ray and delve deeper into the life and mind of Steve Jobs. Experience the behind-the-scenes drama and powerful performances in high definition.
• Steve Jobs by Walter Isaacson: The official biography that inspired the movie. Delve deeper into the life of Steve Jobs and gain a comprehensive understanding of his motivations, challenges, and achievements.
• Apple iMac 24-inch: Experience the power and beauty of Apple’s iconic all-in-one desktop. Featuring a stunning Retina display and a sleek design, the iMac is perfect for creative professionals and everyday users alike.
• Steve Jobs: The Man in the Machine: Alex Gibney’s documentary explores the darker side of Steve Jobs’s personality and leadership style. Gain a critical perspective on his impact on the tech industry.

🎧 Soundtrack

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

• “Times They Are a-Changin'” – performed by Bob Dylan
• “Mozart: Marriage of Figaro Overture” – performed by Karl Bohm

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

🤨 FAQ

🔥 Bonus Content

Mark Kermode reviews Steve Jobs

Looking for an in-depth analysis of the ‘Steve Jobs’ movie? Check out Mark Kermode’s review, where he offers his expert opinion on the film’s storytelling and performances.

The Ugly Truth About Steve Jobs

Dive into the lesser-known aspects of Steve Jobs’ life in this eye-opening documentary, which explores the darker truths behind the iconic Apple founder.

How Steve Jobs Manipulated Reality | Body Language Masterclass

Discover the secrets of Steve Jobs’ charisma and influence in this fascinating video that breaks down his body language strategies. Learn how he used nonverbal cues to captivate audiences and drive his vision.

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