Accidents Happen

Accidents Happen

Year: 2010

Language: English

Director: Andrew Lancaster

DramaComedy

Gloria Conway uses humor to cope with her family’s constant misfortunes. Her teenage son Billy's increasingly elaborate pranks lead to a series of chaotic events, forcing them to confront the unexpected consequences. As they navigate this streak of bad luck, they learn to appreciate the resilience of their family and find unexpected triumphs amidst the absurdity of life's unpredictable nature.

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Timeline – Accidents Happen (2010)

Trace every key event in Accidents Happen (2010) 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

Family Night at the Drive-In

In 1974, the Conway family enjoys a night out at a drive-in theater in Connecticut, watching a show of *The Three Stooges*. The household, led by the formidable matriarch Gloria, is filled with excitement yet is overshadowed by underlying tensions with their neighbor, Doug.

1974 Connecticut
2

Conflict with Doug

As the family watches the movie, Gloria's disdain for their neighbor Doug becomes evident. Tensions escalate when her son Gene mischievously leads Doug to the top of the drive-in screen, leading to a humiliating incident.

Drive-in theater
3

The Tragic Accident

On their way home from the drive-in, an argument among the children distracts Ray, causing a tragic collision with a pick-up truck. While the immediate family sustains only minor injuries, the crash leads to devastating consequences for Linda and Gene, altering the family's future forever.

On the road
4

Life After the Accident

Eight years later in 1982, the Conway family has drastically changed following the accident. Ray is now divorced and struggling with Gene’s severe health issues while navigating complex family dynamics that continue to be strained and emotionally charged.

1982
5

Billy's Friendship with Doug

Billy, now a teenager, maintains a friendship with Doug despite the family's troubled history. This relationship becomes a source of tension, especially as the family tries to cope with the remaining emotional scars of the past.

6

Argument Over TV Dinner

A tension-filled evening escalates when an argument erupts over a TV dinner involving Larry, who has succumbed to alcoholism. An accidental spill of dinner onto Larry escalates tensions further, culminating in a physical confrontation between Doug and Larry.

Conway household
7

A Reckless Stunt

In a moment of reckless play, Billy and Doug attempt a dangerous stunt involving a bowling ball and a moving car, which tragically results in the death of Doug's father. This incident sends shockwaves through both families, deepening the existing wounds.

8

Family Tensions Rise

Following Doug's father's death, tensions mount in the Conway household. Larry's relentless bullying leads to a confrontation with Billy, drawing Gloria's attention and igniting her fury as she discovers Billy's injuries.

Conway household
9

Gloria's Disbelief

Upon hearing of Doug's father's supposed suicide, Gloria confronts Billy with disbelief and anger. Her emotional turmoil reflects the weight of the past events, leading to an explosive family argument.

10

Gene's Passing

As the family grapples with their ongoing tensions, they receive the heart-wrenching news that Gene has passed away. This loss brings a profound emotional reckoning for Gloria and the rest of the family.

11

Gene's Funeral

During Gene’s funeral, Gloria experiences a moment of forgiveness towards Doug, illustrating the complexity of their shared past. The occasion highlights the powerful theme of reconciliation amidst profound grief.

12

Billy's Symbolic Act

In the film's climax, Billy takes the bowling ball tied to the tragic events and rolls it down the sidewalk. This act serves as a cathartic release and symbolizes his processing of the heavy burdens of their family's shared history.

Last Updated: November 15, 2024 at 18:18

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Accidents Happen Summary

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Accidents Happen Summary

Characters, Settings & Themes in Accidents Happen

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Characters, Settings & Themes in Accidents Happen

More About Accidents Happen

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