Crimes of the Heart

Crimes of the Heart

Year: 1987

Runtime: 105 min

Language: English

Director: Bruce Beresford

DramaComedy

Following a shocking incident involving one of their own, three estranged sisters find themselves reunited in a small Mississippi town. The eldest, Lenny, cares for their ailing grandfather while Meg, a struggling actress, returns with a whirlwind of experiences. As they grapple with their shared history and individual struggles, the sisters confront family secrets and complicated relationships, discovering the enduring strength of their bond amidst laughter and heartache.

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Timeline – Crimes of the Heart (1987)

Trace every key event in Crimes of the Heart (1987) 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

Magrath Sisters' Gathering

On Lenny's birthday, the Magrath sisters—Lenny, Meg, and Babe—assemble at their family home in Hazlehurst, Mississippi. This reunion sets the stage for the unraveling of their tangled lives and the secrets that have long been hidden.

On Lenny's birthday Hazlehurst, Mississippi
2

Babe's Reckless Act

Babe makes the impulsive decision to shoot her abusive husband, Zackery Botrelle, inflicting serious injuries. This shocking act serves as a catalyst, triggering a series of revelations that threaten to reshape the sisters' already strained relationships.

3

Old Granddaddy's Health Crisis

As the sisters deal with the fallout of Babe's actions, Old Granddaddy suffers a stroke, complicating their already turbulent family dynamic. His condition forces the sisters to confront their past traumas and their responsibilities to one another.

Hospital
4

Babe's Release

After spending time in jail, Babe is released into the care of her sisters, Lenny and Meg. This tense reunion brings to the surface unresolved issues and hidden feelings that each sister had tried to suppress.

5

Arrival of Barnette Lloyd

Barnette Lloyd, a lawyer, arrives to represent Babe, bringing a sense of realism to the chaotic environment. His presence not only introduces legal complications but also hints at underlying connections that will uncover further truths.

6

Confrontation of Past Secrets

The sisters begin to reveal their long-held secrets, delving into their shared painful history. As Lenny confides in Meg about a past relationship, the tension between them escalates, showcasing their fragile bond.

7

Meg's Lies Unraveled

During a visit to Old Granddaddy, Meg fabricates stories about her supposed Hollywood success, seeking validation from her grandfather. Lenny, suspecting the truth, confronts her, leading to deep-seated resentment and anger.

Hospital
8

Meg and Doc Porter

Meg shares a warm, intimate evening by the lake with Doc Porter, reminiscing about their past. This moment allows Meg to express her disillusionment with her unfulfilled aspirations in Hollywood, showcasing her vulnerability.

Lake
9

Babe's Emotional Outburst

Babe is confronted with explicit photographs of her and Willie, stirring feelings of guilt and humiliation. This shocking reveal compounds the emotional turmoil already present in the household.

10

Deterioration of Old Granddaddy

As Old Granddaddy's health declines, the sisters stay by his side, grappling with their emotions and the weight of their secrets. Their vigil underscores the gravity of their family bond amidst turmoil.

Hospital
11

Meg's Truth to Granddaddy

In the midst of the emotional strain, Meg resolves to confess her fabricated stories to Granddaddy, unaware of his deteriorating condition. This attempt at honesty showcases her desire for connection, even as tragedy looms.

Hospital
12

Babe's Suicide Attempt

Overwhelmed by despair, Babe attempts to take her life by hanging herself, but the chandelier fails, leaving her shaken. This critical moment leads to a profound realization about the importance of family ties and support.

13

Meg's Timely Intervention

Just as Babe contemplates further self-harm, Meg arrives and successfully prevents the tragedy. This intervention marks a pivotal moment in their relationship, highlighting their bond as sisters amidst intense hardship.

14

Surprise Birthday Celebration

In a heartfelt gesture, Meg and Babe come together to surprise Lenny with a birthday cake, reaffirming their support for one another. This act symbolizes a glimmer of hope and love amidst the chaos of their lives.

15

Path to Healing

The sisters begin to navigate their tangled lives toward healing, each facing their inner struggles together. Although the shadows of their past remain, they find solace in their sisterly bond as they seek to reclaim their futures.

Last Updated: November 17, 2024 at 20:11

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Crimes of the Heart Summary

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Crimes of the Heart Summary

Characters, Settings & Themes in Crimes of the Heart

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Characters, Settings & Themes in Crimes of the Heart

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Crimes of the Heart Spoiler-Free Summary

More About Crimes of the Heart

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