Due Date

Main Plot

Due Date follows the story of Peter Highman, an expectant father who is trying to make it home in time for the birth of his child. After a chance encounter at the airport leads to an unfortunate series of events, Peter finds himself on a cross-country road trip with an eccentric and unpredictable travel companion, Ethan Tremblay. As they embark on their journey, the mismatched duo faces a variety of comedic obstacles, including run-ins with the law, car troubles, and a series of misadventures that test their patience and resolve. Throughout the trip, Peter's frustration grows as Ethan's antics complicate their travel plans, forcing them to confront their differences and ultimately learn more about themselves along the way. The film blends humor and heart as it explores themes of friendship, responsibility, and the challenges of impending fatherhood.

Characters

• Peter Highman, played by Robert Downey Jr., is an expectant father who embarks on a chaotic cross-country journey to reach his wife's side before the birth of their child.
• Ethan Tremblay, an aspiring actor, inadvertently causes chaos while traveling cross-country with Robert Downey Jr.'s character to reach a crucial event on time.
• Michelle Monaghan plays Sarah Highman, Peter Highman's wife. Her pregnancy and impending labor drive Peter's urgent cross-country journey, central to the film's plot.

Ending Explained

In the ending of Due Date, the chaotic road trip between Peter and Ethan culminates in a series of revelations and reconciliations. After a series of misadventures, including a run-in with the law and a near-death experience, Peter finally reaches Los Angeles just in time for the birth of his child. The climax occurs when Peter confronts Ethan about his reckless behavior, which has caused significant delays and stress. However, instead of anger, Peter finds himself understanding Ethan's struggles and vulnerabilities. The resolution comes when Peter realizes that despite their differences, Ethan has become an unexpected friend. The emotional climax is marked by a heartfelt moment where Peter acknowledges the importance of their journey together. As Peter rushes to the hospital, Ethan's presence becomes a source of support rather than a burden. The film concludes with Peter welcoming his newborn and sharing a moment of joy, while Ethan finds a sense of belonging and purpose. This ending reinforces the themes of friendship, acceptance, and the unpredictability of life, illustrating how two unlikely companions can help each other grow through their shared experiences. Ultimately, the film wraps up with a sense of closure and newfound understanding between the characters.