Drama,Romance
United States of America
Stanley is a hardworking but illiterate cook at a Berkshire-based snack industry cafeteria. When a newly widowed woman named Iris, played by Jane Fonda, delivers a cake to the cafeteria, Stanley, played by Robert De Niro, is immediately smitten by her. He begins to talk to her during her visits, but his lack of education makes it difficult for him to hold a conversation.
Over time, Iris reveals her story to Stanley. She has two children and is grieving the loss of her husband in a car accident. Stanley begins to help her out with small errands, and they grow closer. However, Stanley's lack of reading skills becomes a roadblock to their relationship and to his professional growth.
Stanley is eventually fired from his job due to his illiteracy. Seeing his potential, Iris suggests that he should learn how to read. After being hesitant at first, Stanley agrees to let Iris teach him. They begin to meet in her kitchen every night for English lessons, and Stanley's progress is slow but steady.
Throughout the process, they both learn a lot about each other and themselves. Iris helps Stanley to uncover his true potential and to see that he is capable of achieving his dreams. Stanley, in turn, helps Iris to overcome her grief and to find joy in her life again.
In the end, Stanley surprises everyone, including Iris, by graduating from an adult education program. The film ends with a shot of Stanley, happily reading a newspaper in front of his new job, with Iris by his side, both smiling.
