Detailed Summary
Act One: The Launch of the Macintosh (1984)
The film opens backstage before the unveiling of the Macintosh in 1984. Steve Jobs (Michael Fassbender) is dealing with technical issues, a strained relationship with his ex-girlfriend Chrisann Brennan (Katherine Waterston), and a conflict with Apple co-founder Steve Wozniak (Seth Rogen). Jobs refuses to acknowledge his daughter, Lisa, despite DNA evidence proving his paternity.
Act Two: The Launch of the NeXT Computer (1988)
Four years later, at the launch of the NeXT Computer, Jobs is grappling with the fallout from his departure from Apple. He is still at odds with Wozniak and faces legal battles over his refusal to financially support Lisa. Joanna Hoffman (Kate Winslet), Jobs’s marketing executive and confidante, tries to mediate between Jobs and the people he has alienated.
Act Three: The Launch of the iMac (1998)
The final act takes place in 1998 at the launch of the iMac. Jobs has returned to Apple, and the company is on the verge of a major comeback. Jobs’s relationships with Wozniak, Hoffman, and Lisa come to a head, revealing the complexities of his character and the impact of his personal and professional decisions.
Movie Ending
The film concludes with Jobs making amends with Lisa, acknowledging her as his daughter, and sharing a moment of reconciliation. This final scene highlights the human side of Jobs, juxtaposed with his relentless drive and visionary leadership.
Are There Post-Credits Scenes?
No, “Steve Jobs” does not have any post-credits scenes.
Type of Movie
“Steve Jobs” is a biographical drama that provides an intimate look at the life of Steve Jobs through three pivotal product launches.
Cast
- Michael Fassbender as Steve Jobs
- Kate Winslet as Joanna Hoffman
- Seth Rogen as Steve Wozniak
- Jeff Daniels as John Sculley
- Katherine Waterston as Chrisann Brennan
- Michael Stuhlbarg as Andy Hertzfeld
- Perla Haney-Jardine, Ripley Sobo, and Makenzie Moss as Lisa Brennan-Jobs (at different ages)
Film Music and Composer
The score was composed by Daniel Pemberton, who blends orchestral, electronic, and ambient music to reflect the different time periods and the evolving nature of Jobs’s character.
Filming Locations
- San Francisco, California: Key scenes shot at the actual locations of the product launches, adding authenticity to the narrative.
- Berkeley, California: Used for scenes depicting Jobs’s personal life and relationships.
These locations were chosen to capture the Silicon Valley atmosphere and the significant places in Jobs’s life.
Awards and Nominations
- Academy Awards: Nominated for Best Actor (Michael Fassbender) and Best Supporting Actress (Kate Winslet).
- Golden Globe Awards: Wins for Best Supporting Actress (Kate Winslet) and Best Screenplay (Aaron Sorkin).
Behind the Scenes Insights
- Aaron Sorkin’s screenplay is structured in three acts, each focusing on a different product launch.
- Michael Fassbender did not physically resemble Steve Jobs but captured his mannerisms and intensity through extensive preparation.
- Kate Winslet adopted a Polish accent for her role as Joanna Hoffman, earning critical acclaim.
Inspirations and References
- Source Material: Based on Walter Isaacson’s authorized biography of Steve Jobs.
- Real Events: The film dramatizes real events and relationships, focusing on the personal and professional challenges Jobs faced.
Alternate Endings and Deleted Scenes
There are no widely known alternate endings, but some scenes were trimmed for pacing. The final cut remains faithful to Sorkin’s vision of a three-act structure.
Book Adaptations and Differences
- Faithful Adaptation: The film is based on Isaacson’s biography but condenses and dramatizes events for narrative coherence.
- Character Focus: The movie focuses more on the personal dynamics and conflicts rather than a comprehensive biography.
Memorable Scenes and Quotes
Key Scenes
- 1984 Macintosh Launch: Jobs’s intense backstage preparations and conflicts.
- NeXT Launch: The confrontation with John Sculley (Jeff Daniels) over Jobs’s ousting from Apple.
- iMac Launch: The emotional reconciliation with Lisa.
Iconic Quotes
- “Musicians play their instruments. I play the orchestra.” – Steve Jobs
- “It’s not binary. You can be decent and gifted at the same time.” – Joanna Hoffman
- “I’m poorly made.” – Steve Jobs
Easter Eggs and Hidden Details
- The Macintosh startup sound can be heard subtly in the background during the 1984 scenes.
- Jobs’s wardrobe evolves to reflect his changing persona, from the colorful Apple suits to the iconic black turtleneck.
Trivia
- Michael Fassbender received coaching from vocal coaches to mimic Jobs’s speech patterns.
- The movie’s structure mimics a three-act play, focusing on Jobs’s interactions with a recurring set of characters.
- Kate Winslet won numerous awards for her portrayal of Joanna Hoffman, including a BAFTA.
Why Watch?
“Steve Jobs” offers a compelling, behind-the-scenes look at one of the most influential figures in modern technology. The film’s unique structure, sharp dialogue, and stellar performances make it a must-watch for anyone interested in the intersection of innovation and human complexity.
Director’s Other Movies
- Slumdog Millionaire (2008)
- 127 Hours (2010)
- Trainspotting (1996)
- 28 Days Later (2002)
- The Beach (2000)
Recommended Films for Fans
- The Social Network (2010)
- Moneyball (2011)
- The Imitation Game (2014)
- Jobs (2013)
- The Founder (2016)
