The Muse (1999) (PG-13)

synopsis

One fine night, Hollywood screenwriter Steven Phillips basks in the honor of a humanitarian award, presented to him at a black-tie dinner as his proud wife Laura and daughters look on. One crappy morning later, a junior studio executive is telling Steven that he's lost his creative edge, and releases Steven from his contract. Steven's confidence is shaken: he wants to work, but how can he, if word is out that he's over? Desperately seeking counsel, Steven visits his friend, enviably successful screenwriter Jack Warrick, at Jack's Bel Air estate. Jack confides to Steven that he himself was inspired to his ongoing success. Not by a muse, but by a Muse. Steven is incredulous as Jack tells him of Sarah, one of the nine daughters (The Muses) of the god Zeus (of Greek mythology fame). Steven is soon consumed by the prospect of becoming one of Sarah's clients. As a favor, Jack agrees to set up a meeting between Sarah and Steven. The meeting, held in a guest house where Sarah is staying, gets off to a shaky start, but Sarah soon puts Steven at ease. In her capacity as Muse, Sarah explains, she does not do any actual work herself, but helps filmmakers get in touch with their own inner creativity. Sarah agrees to take Steven on as a client, but not before detailing her needs: food, lodging, car and driver, 24-hour access to Steven by phone, etc. Perks notwithstanding, Steven, impatient to get inspired, eagerly closes the deal. Closer to home, despite her misgivings, Laura accepts Sarah into the Phillips household. As Steven's wife and Muse become fast friends, he realizes that their lives and work will never be the same again.