That Awkward Moment
That Awkward Moment is a 2014 American romantic comedy film written and directed by Tom Gormican in his feature directorial debut.[1] The movie stars Zac Efron, Miles Teller, and Michael B. Jordan as a trio of close friends who pledge to remain single in solidarity after one faces a breakup, only to each encounter unexpected romantic entanglements.[2] Released on January 31, 2014, the film blends humor with explorations of male friendship and dating dilemmas in contemporary New York City.[1] The story follows three best friends navigating the challenges of single life and budding relationships after their pact is tested.[1] Produced on a modest budget of $8 million, That Awkward Moment was distributed by Focus Features and marked an early collaboration among its young lead actors. Gormican crafted the screenplay to capture the nuances of millennial relationships with a mix of raunchy humor and heartfelt moments.[3] Upon release, the film earned $26 million domestically and $45.6 million worldwide, proving profitable despite mixed critical reception. Critics on Rotten Tomatoes gave it a 23% approval rating, praising the chemistry among the leads but criticizing the script's formulaic elements and uneven tone.[1] Audiences responded more positively with a 46% score, appreciating its relatable take on friendship and romance, while it debuted at number two at the box office behind Ride Along.[1]Content
Plot
That Awkward Moment centers on three best friends in New York City: Jason (Zac Efron), a smooth-talking book jacket designer who avoids commitment; Daniel (Miles Teller), a laid-back wingman with a penchant for casual hookups; and Mikey (Michael B. Jordan), an emergency room doctor whose long-term marriage is crumbling.[4] The trio's bond is tested when Mikey returns home from work to find his wife Vera with her lover, who reveals her infidelity and presents divorce papers, prompting the friends to make a pact to remain single and focus on carefree dating to support him through the breakup. As they navigate the New York dating scene, each friend encounters unexpected romantic entanglements that challenge the pact. Jason meets Ellie (Imogen Poots), a sharp-witted writer, at a bar and begins a promising relationship marked by witty banter and genuine chemistry, but he struggles with his fear of seriousness. Daniel, who has long viewed his friend Chelsea (Mackenzie Davis) as a platonic buddy for scouting women, starts developing deeper feelings after they sleep together, leading to awkward attempts to define their connection. Meanwhile, Mikey secretly attempts to rekindle things with Vera, including intimate encounters, while pretending to embrace single life with his friends. Complications escalate as the friends lie to each other about their growing attachments, resulting in a series of humiliating and awkward social situations, such as Jason's disastrous double date and Daniel's jealous outbursts. The pact unravels further when Jason skips Ellie's father's funeral to attend Chelsea's family dinner, prioritizing avoidance of commitment, which strains his budding romance. Tensions peak during a heated confrontation where Jason accuses Daniel and Mikey of hypocrisy, sparking a physical fight and temporarily dissolving their friendship. In the climax, personal growth moments lead to resolutions: Daniel survives a taxi accident and confesses his love to Chelsea, solidifying their relationship. Mikey accepts the end of his marriage and sets up a date with a new woman. Jason, regretting his actions, publicly apologizes to Ellie during her book launch event and pleads for another chance. The friends reconcile, reaffirming their bond. The film concludes with Ellie agreeing to meet Jason at Gramercy Park at 2:18 a.m., signaling a fresh start for their romance and highlighting themes of commitment, honesty, and the enduring strength of male friendship.Cast
The principal cast of That Awkward Moment centers on three lifelong best friends navigating relationships in New York City, portrayed by rising stars known for their charismatic screen presence.[5]| Actor | Role | Character Description |
|---|---|---|
| Zac Efron | Jason | A charming playboy and graphic designer specializing in book covers, who thrives on casual flings but begins questioning his lifestyle.[1][6] |
| Miles Teller | Daniel | Jason's wisecracking colleague and fellow graphic designer, initially committed to a carefree dating scene but developing deeper feelings for a close friend.[1][7] |
| Michael B. Jordan | Mikey | An emergency room doctor whose recent marriage to his college sweetheart crumbles, leaving him adrift and seeking support from his friends amid divorce proceedings.[8][3] |