Diner is a coming-of-age film directed by Barry Levinson. The story centers around a group of five friends in their early twenties, who are navigating through life in Baltimore, Maryland during the late 1950s.
The group of friends includes Eddie (Steve Guttenberg), Shrevie (Daniel Stern), Boogie (Mickey Rourke), Fenwick (Kevin Bacon), and Modell (Paul Reiser). They all spend their free time hanging out at the local diner, where they discuss their romantic follies, personal issues, and their mutual love for Baltimore Colts football.
As the film progresses, the characters begin to experience the harsh realities of adulthood. Eddie is engaged, but struggling with commitment issues. Shrevie is married, but constantly fighting with his wife over trivial matters. Boogie is a womanizer, but his reckless behavior eventually catches up with him. Fenwick is a college dropout who is still struggling to find his place in the world. And Modell is the odd one out, as he has yet to experience any real-life challenges.
Towards the end of the film, the group attends a Colts game, which is a defining moment in their lives. As they watch the game and reflect on their personal struggles, they begin to appreciate the value of their friendship and the importance of growing up.
Diner has been critically acclaimed for its realistic portrayal of young adulthood and its examination of the male psyche. It has been praised for its sharp writing, strong performances, and its ability to capture the essence of a time and place. The film has since become a classic and has cemented itself as a seminal work in the coming-of-age genre.