1) The film Breaking Away reviews four recent high school graduates in Bloomington, Indiana who are unsure of what to do with their lives beyond hanging out at an abandoned quarry and committing to their friendship. 2) Each character has dreams but feels crushed by the weight of their small hometown. The film explores the tension between the aimlessness of youth and the responsibilities of adulthood. 3) The film won the Academy Award for Best Original Screenplay and received nominations for Best Actress in a Supporting Role, Best Director, and Best Picture.