The Rebound
The Rebound is a 2009 American romantic comedy film written and directed by Bart Freundlich.[1][2] Starring Catherine Zeta-Jones as Sandy, a recently divorced mother of two, and Justin Bartha as Aram, her much younger nanny, the film explores themes of post-divorce reinvention, unexpected romance, and generational differences in New York City.[1][2] It received a limited international theatrical release starting in September 2009 before its wider United States debut on February 7, 2012.[3][2] The plot centers on Sandy, who discovers her husband's infidelity and relocates from the suburbs to Manhattan, where she hires Aram—a recent college graduate recently separated from his wife—to help care for her children.[2][4] As their professional relationship evolves into a deep friendship and eventual romance, the film delves into the challenges of their age gap, cultural clashes, and personal growth, all set against the vibrant backdrop of urban life.[1][2] With a runtime of 95 minutes, it blends humor and heartfelt moments, emphasizing Zeta-Jones's portrayal of a woman reclaiming her independence.[2][4] Produced by The Film Department, A&F Productions, and Dillywood, The Rebound marked Freundlich's return to directing after a five-year hiatus, drawing on his experiences as a filmmaker married to actress Julianne Moore.[2][5] The supporting cast includes Joanna Gleason, Lynn Whitfield, Art Garfunkel, and child actors Kelly Gould and Jake Cherry, who play Sandy's children.[1] Critically, the film holds a 41% approval rating on Rotten Tomatoes based on 27 reviews, with praise for the leads' chemistry but criticism for predictable plotting and uneven pacing; it earned a 6.3 out of 10 average on IMDb from over 51,000 user ratings.[2][1] Despite modest box office success, grossing $21.8 million internationally, it has gained a cult following for its lighthearted take on midlife romance.[6]Plot and cast
Plot
Sandy, a suburban housewife and mother of two children, discovers her husband Frank's infidelity while reviewing footage from their son's birthday party. Devastated, she files for divorce and relocates with her daughter Sadie, aged nine, and son Frank Jr., aged seven, to a cramped apartment in New York City above a coffee shop. To support her family, Sandy secures a position at a sports media website, leveraging her expertise in fantasy basketball leagues to contribute insightful articles on the topic.[1] Struggling to balance her demanding new career and single parenthood, Sandy hires Aram, a 25-year-old barista from the coffee shop downstairs, as a full-time nanny. Aram, recently separated from his brief marriage to a French woman who exploited him for a green card, is an aspiring writer drifting through life without clear direction. Initially professional, their interactions deepen as Aram bonds with Sadie's precocious wit and Frank Jr.'s curiosity, while Sandy encourages Aram's creative pursuits, sharing feedback on his manuscripts. This evolving dynamic highlights the challenges of urban life for a newly single parent, contrasting the structured suburban routines Sandy left behind with the chaotic energy of city existence.[1] As Sandy navigates dating in the city, her encounters with age-appropriate men prove unfulfilling, leading her to recognize an unexpected attraction to Aram. Their relationship blossoms from companionship into romance, marked by tender moments amid everyday chaos, such as late-night talks and shared family outings. However, tensions emerge from their 15-year age gap, with Sandy's mother expressing disapproval and warning of potential instability, while Aram grapples with his immaturity and unresolved feelings from his failed marriage. The return of Aram's ex-wife further complicates matters, forcing both to confront whether their connection is a mere rebound or something enduring. Themes of rebound relationships underscore the film's exploration of post-divorce vulnerability, intertwined with the trials of single parenthood and the excitement and isolation of an age-gap romance in a bustling metropolis.[1] The narrative builds to a crisis when external pressures and self-doubt strain their bond, prompting a temporary separation. Through personal growth—Sandy embracing her independence and Aram committing to his writing ambitions—they reconcile, affirming their mutual support. The story concludes optimistically, with Sandy and Aram holding hands under the table as their children begin to warm to the blended family dynamic, symbolizing hope for a lasting partnership amid life's rebounds.[1]Cast
The principal cast of The Rebound centers on Catherine Zeta-Jones as Sandy, a 40-year-old divorced mother who relocates to New York City with her two children to rebuild her life after discovering her husband's infidelity.[2] Justin Bartha plays Aram Finklestein, a 25-year-old aspiring writer and barista who is hired as the family's nanny and develops an unexpected romantic connection with Sandy.[1] The film emphasizes an ensemble dynamic, with supporting performers portraying family members and colleagues that highlight themes of second chances and intergenerational relationships.| Actor | Role | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Catherine Zeta-Jones | Sandy | Recently divorced mother navigating single life and career reinvention in New York City.[1] |
| Justin Bartha | Aram Finklestein | Aspiring writer in his twenties who becomes the nanny for Sandy's children.[1] |
| Kelly Gould | Sadie (age 9) | Sandy's outspoken young daughter.[1] |
| Andrew Cherry | Frank Jr. (age 7) | Sandy's mischievous young son.[1] |
| Lynn Whitfield | Laura Reilly | Sandy's no-nonsense boss at a sports news website.[7] |
| Art Garfunkel | Harry Finklestein | Aram's supportive father.[1] |
| Sam Robards | Frank | Sandy's unfaithful ex-husband.[1] |
| John Schneider | Trevor | Sandy's chiropractor.[1] |