In 1970s New York City, David Marks (Gosling), the son of a powerful real estate tycoon, marries Katie McCarthy (Dunst), a beautiful working-class student. Together they flee New York for country life in Vermont, setting up a health food store called 'All Good Things' — only to be lured back by David's father (Frank Langella) who preys upon David's insecurities by telling him that Katie deserves more than he's currently giving her. Upon their return, Katie and David buy a beautiful apartment and Katie brings up the idea of having children. David implies he can't have any. After buying a lake house out of town, Katie confesses to their pregnant neighbor that she is expecting as well. When Katie tells David the good news, he responds by throwing things and then breaks down at the thought of being a parent. After forcing Katie to make an appointment for an abortion, David misses the appointment while doing work for his father.