Maggie Sherwoode (played by Dakota Johnson) is a protagonist in The High Note.
Longtime personal assistant to legendary singer Grace Davis and an aspiring music producer. She secretly remixes Grace's tracks, collaborates with wealthy musician David Cliff, and navigates ethical challenges and career setbacks. Ultimately, she overcomes obstacles to produce Grace's new album and reconnects with her mentor. Grace Davis (played by Tracee Ellis Ross) is a protagonist in The High Note.
Legendary R&B singer with a decades-long touring career but no recent studio albums. Initially resistant to new recordings and dismissive of Maggie's ambitions, she eventually acknowledges Maggie's talent, begins writing new material, and reconciles with her estranged son David for a public performance. Jack Robertson (played by Ice Cube) appears in The High Note.
Grace's egocentric manager who prioritizes commercial viability over artistic innovation. He advocates for a Las Vegas residency and live albums, clashes with Maggie over professional boundaries, and temporarily fires her before dealing with the consequences of her departure. David Cliff (played by Kelvin Harrison Jr.) appears in The High Note.
Wealthy aspiring musician who meets Maggie at a grocery store and collaborates on his debut demo. He develops a romantic relationship with Maggie, secures industry representation through Dan Deakins, and ultimately reveals his identity as Grace's estranged son during a festival performance. Max (played by Bill Pullman) appears in The High Note.
Maggie's father and a radio DJ. He provides emotional support and practical encouragement after Maggie is fired, helping her regain confidence to pursue her production career and mend professional relationships.
The High Note (2020) character relationship network mapped with AI analysis. Explore the connections, alliances, and conflicts between characters.
Characters
Maggie Sherwoode
(played by Dakota Johnson) — protagonist
Longtime personal assistant to legendary singer Grace Davis and an aspiring music producer. She secretly remixes Grace's tracks, collaborates with wealthy musician David Cliff, and navigates ethical c...
Grace Davis
(played by Tracee Ellis Ross) — protagonist
Legendary R&B singer with a decades-long touring career but no recent studio albums. Initially resistant to new recordings and dismissive of Maggie's ambitions, she eventually acknowledges Maggie's ta...
Jack Robertson
(played by Ice Cube) — supporting
Grace's egocentric manager who prioritizes commercial viability over artistic innovation. He advocates for a Las Vegas residency and live albums, clashes with Maggie over professional boundaries, and...
David Cliff
(played by Kelvin Harrison Jr.) — supporting
Wealthy aspiring musician who meets Maggie at a grocery store and collaborates on his debut demo. He develops a romantic relationship with Maggie, secures industry representation through Dan Deakins,...
Max
(played by Bill Pullman) — supporting
Maggie's father and a radio DJ. He provides emotional support and practical encouragement after Maggie is fired, helping her regain confidence to pursue her production career and mend professional rel...
Key Relationships
Maggie Sherwoode → Max
(Family Father And Daughter)
Jack Robertson → Maggie Sherwoode
(Professional Manager And Assistant)
Grace Davis → Jack Robertson
(Professional Singer And Manager)
Grace Davis → David Cliff
(Family Mother And Son)
Maggie Sherwoode → David Cliff
(Romantic Lovers)
Maggie Sherwoode → Grace Davis
(Professional Personal Assistant)
Story Analysis
A music producer's journey to find her voice while navigating complex relationships with a legendary singer and a hidden family secret.
Plot Progression
The Assistant's Ambition
Studio Tensions and Secrets
The Party Fiasco
Reckoning and Reconciliation
Harmony Restored
Directed by Nisha Ganatra
The High Note (2020) · 7/10 · comedy, drama, music, romance