The film centers around Gwen Harrison (played by Catherine Zeta-Jones) and Eddie Thomas (played by John Cusack), a famous Hollywood couple known as “America’s Sweethearts.” They have starred in numerous romantic comedies together and have been beloved by audiences worldwide. However, their marriage is on the rocks, and they are on the verge of divorcing.
Lee Phillips (played by Billy Crystal) is the longtime publicist for Gwen and Eddie, responsible for managing their public image and orchestrating their media appearances. He is under immense pressure from the studio to keep their impending breakup under wraps to avoid negative publicity that could harm the release of their final film together, “Time Over Time.”
Kiki Harrison (played by Julia Roberts) is Gwen’s sister and personal assistant, who has always lived in her famous sister’s shadow. Kiki is dedicated to Gwen’s career and well-being, despite feeling unappreciated and undervalued in her own life.
The studio executives, represented by Dave Kingman (played by Stanley Tucci), are desperate to salvage the situation and ensure the success of “Time Over Time.” They devise a plan to reunite Gwen and Eddie for a press junket promoting the film, hoping to reignite their on-screen chemistry and convince the public that they are still a happy couple.
As the press junket unfolds, chaos ensues as Lee, Kiki, and the rest of the publicity team struggle to keep Gwen and Eddie’s personal issues under control. Eddie, still harboring feelings for Gwen, tries to win her back, while Gwen becomes increasingly frustrated with the manipulative tactics of the studio and her estranged husband.
Amidst the chaos, Kiki finds herself falling for Eddie, leading to romantic complications and comedic misunderstandings. Meanwhile, Lee wrestles with his own feelings for Kiki and grapples with the moral implications of his job as a publicist.
In a climactic scene, the truth about Gwen and Eddie’s relationship is exposed to the public during a live broadcast, leading to a heartfelt and candid confession from both parties. They admit their faults and acknowledge that their marriage is over, but they also express gratitude for the time they spent together and the love they once shared.
In the end, Gwen and Eddie go their separate ways, but they find closure and a sense of peace with their decision. Kiki realizes her own worth and finds happiness with Lee, while the studio executives reluctantly accept the reality of the situation and move forward with promoting “Time Over Time” as a film about love and second chances.
“America’s Sweethearts” is a charming and lighthearted romantic comedy that offers a humorous and insightful look at the glitz, glamour, and complexities of Hollywood relationships. Through its engaging storyline, witty dialogue, and stellar performances from its ensemble cast, the film provides audiences with an entertaining and entertaining glimpse behind the scenes of Tinseltown.