3 Backyards

3 Backyards

Year: 2011

Runtime: 88 min

Language: English

Director: Eric Mendelsohn

Drama

A driven executive, a weary homemaker, and a curious young boy's lives unexpectedly intersect in a seemingly ordinary suburban neighborhood. Through a chain of chance meetings and shared experiences, each character confronts personal struggles and re-evaluates their perspectives on family, responsibility, and the hidden connections that shape everyday life. The film explores themes of loss, redemption, and the unexpected beauty found within the familiar.

Warning: spoilers below!

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Timeline – 3 Backyards (2011)

Trace every key event in 3 Backyards (2011) with our detailed, chronological timeline. Perfect for unpacking nonlinear stories, spotting hidden connections, and understanding how each scene builds toward the film’s climax. Whether you're revisiting or decoding for the first time, this timeline gives you the full picture.

1

Early Morning Tensions

The movie opens with John and his wife sitting at the kitchen table in stark silence. It is 3:30 AM, and the atmosphere is thick with tension, amplified by a loud buzzing sound and eerie music that sets a haunting tone for the events to come.

3:30 AM Kitchen
2

Christina's Bracelet Dilemma

Christina, John's daughter, is attempting to try on a bracelet that she shouldn’t be wearing. As she struggles to remove it, the urgency builds when her mother warns her that if she misses the school bus, no one will be available to take her.

3

Missing the Bus

Despite her mother's warnings, Christina ends up missing the bus. This creates a pivotal moment in her day, where instead of going to school, she finds herself distracted and lost in thoughts, wondering about her surroundings and life.

4

A Lost Dog and a Glimpse of Mystery

While on her way to school, Christina notices a woman putting up signs for a lost dog. This moment triggers Christina's imagination and raises questions about her own reality as she believes she sees the dog. Yet, it's not clear if it’s an illusion or truly there.

5

Peggy in the Backyard

At home, Peggy, another character, is tending to her children while engaging in painting in her backyard. She enjoys a light-hearted gossip session with a neighbor which establishes a sense of community but also hints at underlying judgments among them.

Backyard
6

Neighborhood Dynamics

The presence of a neighbor who lives in a nice house introduces a contrasting social dynamic. She appears aloof and superior, adding depth to the neighborhood relationships, especially when she requests a ride to the ferry from Peggy.

7

John's Airport Frustrations

Meanwhile, John faces challenges at the airport regarding his flight. His company's use of frequent flier miles complicates matters when he must consider a non-refundable ticket on another airline, revealing strains in his personal life.

Airport
8

A Moment of Connection

During his ordeal at the airport, John meets a black woman in a blue dress. They strike up a conversation, revealing her struggles with finding employment. This encounter highlights themes of empathy and connection amidst the backdrop of their individual challenges.

Airport
9

John's Call to Snoopy

John makes a heartfelt call home to his sick daughter, Snoopy. Their interaction is filled with warmth, indicating a bond between them and providing a glimpse of hope as it's revealed that Snoopy is on the mend, lifting John's spirits during a complicated day.

10

Lessons Learned

As the story unfolds, both Peggy and John encounter significant moments that challenge their initial perceptions. Peggy's experience teaches her not to judge others based on first impressions, while John learns a valuable lesson about personal connections and understanding.

11

Unresolved Mysteries

The film concludes with ambiguity surrounding Christina's earlier situation with the bracelet and the lost dog. Leaving the audience with questions about the day's events, echoing a common theme found in coming-of-age tales, reminiscent of young Beaver Cleaver's misadventures.

Last Updated: May 12, 2025 at 07:04

Unlock the Full Story of 3 Backyards

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3 Backyards Summary

Read a complete plot summary of 3 Backyards, including all key story points, character arcs, and turning points. This in-depth recap is ideal for understanding the narrative structure or reviewing what happened in the movie.

3 Backyards Summary

Characters, Settings & Themes in 3 Backyards

Discover the characters, locations, and core themes that shape 3 Backyards. Get insights into symbolic elements, setting significance, and deeper narrative meaning — ideal for thematic analysis and movie breakdowns.

Characters, Settings & Themes in 3 Backyards

More About 3 Backyards

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More About 3 Backyards

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