A Long Way Down

A Long Way Down

Year: 2014

Runtime: 96 min

Director: Pascal Chaumeil

DramaComedy

On New Year's Eve, four misfits – a disgraced TV host, a rebellious teenager, a reclusive single mom, and a self-absorbed musician – converge at London's notorious Topper's Tower, each seeking an escape from their own despair. As they hesitate at the brink of mortality, they form an unlikely bond, trading suicidal plans for a six-week reprieve, becoming media darlings as the "Topper House Four" and embarking on a journey to rediscover life's purpose.

Warning: spoilers below!

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Timeline – A Long Way Down (2014)
Trace every key event in A Long Way Down (2014) 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

Martin's Despair

Martin Sharp stands on the edge of the Toppers Building on New Year's Eve, contemplating ending his life. Despite his seemingly perfect life as a television host, he is overwhelmed with despair after a series of tragic events lead him to this moment.

New Year's Eve Toppers Building, London
2

Maureen's Arrival

Just as Martin prepares to jump, he is interrupted by Maureen, who shares her own dark intentions. The two connect in their mutual hopelessness, momentarily agreeing to face death together.

New Year's Eve Toppers Building, London
3

Unexpected Reunion

Their pact is interrupted when Jess and J.J. join them, leading to an unforeseen turn of events. Rain begins to fall, forcing Martin and the others to leave the rooftop and reconsider their plans.

New Year's Eve Toppers Building, London
4

The Chance Encounter

On the way home, Martin meets Maureen at a bus stop, Jess wandering in the rain, and J.J. struggling with his moped. Despite their own troubles, Martin opts to help each of them, discovering their shared burdens.

New Year's Eve London
5

Jess's Struggles

Jess faces despair due to her addiction and a toxic relationship with Chaz, complicating her already difficult life. Being the daughter of a prominent politician only adds pressure to her existence, creating a cycle of dysfunction.

London
6

J.J.'s Excuse

As a musician with a troubled past, J.J. reveals he has terminal brain cancer, adding yet another layer of tragedy to the group. His admission sparks a blend of sympathy and skepticism within the others.

London
7

Ambulance Incident

After dropping Jess off to confront Chaz, Martin and Maureen are alarmed to find her in the back of an ambulance. Jess insists her overdose was an accident, marking a turning point in their newfound dynamic.

London
8

A New Pact

The four strangers forge a pact to postpone their suicide plans until Valentine's Day, creating a newfound sense of purpose among them. Their agreement quickly becomes tabloid fodder, bringing unexpected attention to their struggles.

London
9

Martin's Whimsical Plan

In a bid for attention and sympathy, Martin concocts a story about their suicide interruption involving a vision of an angel. This tall tale leads them to appear on Martin's former TV show, sparking more public interest.

TV Show, London
10

Escalating Tensions

While at a low-budget resort, the group grows closer but underlying tensions surface. J.J.'s interactions with a reporter named Kathy ignite jealousy in Jess, leading to confrontations among the friends.

Low-budget Resort
11

Matty's Health Scare

Tragedy strikes when Maureen's son, Matty, suffers a heart attack, though he ultimately recovers. This incident shakes the group and forces them to reckon with their commitments.

Hospital
12

Valentine's Day Revelation

As Valentine's Day arrives, Jess and Martin visit Maureen in the hospital, reflecting on their pact. They realize that their commitment has waned, prompting them to confront what they truly want.

Valentine's Day Hospital
13

Rooftop Confrontation

Gathering back on the rooftop, the group faces J.J., who is teetering on the edge once more. In a moment of solidarity, they coax him back from the brink, offering him newfound hope and support.

Toppers Building, London
14

A Year Later

Fast forward to the following New Year's Eve, the group reconnects through a video call. Each member shows signs of growth and renewal, illustrating a journey of healing and resilience.

New Year's Eve Various locations

Last Updated: November 03, 2024 at 23:06

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