Days of Heaven

Days of Heaven

Year: 1978

Runtime: 94 min

Language: English

Director: Terrence Malick

DramaRomance

In 1916, a tumultuous tale of love and revenge unfolds against the majestic backdrop of America's Great Plains. A rebellious steelworker escapes Chicago's strife, joined by his sister and enchanting lover. As their idyllic world teeters on the brink of chaos, a senseless tragedy sparks a desperate quest for justice amidst the unforgiving beauty of nature.

Warning: spoilers below!

Haven’t seen Days of Heaven yet? This summary contains major spoilers. Bookmark the page, watch the movie, and come back for the full breakdown. If you're ready, scroll on and relive the story!

Timeline – Days of Heaven (1978)
Trace every key event in Days of Heaven (1978) 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

Bill's Accident

In the summer of 1916, Bill endures a tragic accident at the steel mill, resulting in the death of his boss. This pivotal moment becomes the catalyst for a series of desperate choices he must make to escape his troubled past.

Summer 1916 Chicago
2

Fleeing Chicago

After the accident, Bill, along with his girlfriend Abby and sister Linda, decides to flee Chicago to avoid the fallout. They embark on a treacherous journey to the Texas Panhandle, looking for a fresh start.

Texas Panhandle
3

Settling on the Ranch

Upon arriving in Texas, the trio settles on a sprawling ranch and integrates themselves as seasonal workers. To prevent suspicion, Bill and Abby concoct a story, pretending to be siblings.

Texas Ranch
4

The Farmer's Illness

Bill and Abby learn that the charming farmer running the ranch is dying from a terminal illness. Despite the somber news, the farmer's kindness and warmth create a bond with Bill that complicates his plans.

Texas Ranch
5

The Marriage Proposal

Desperate to secure their future, Bill proposes that Abby marry the farmer. This plan comes with the understanding that upon the farmer's death, they would inherit his prosperous estate.

Texas Ranch
6

The Wedding Ceremony

The wedding between Abby and the farmer takes place amidst increasing tension. Bill assumes the role of Abby's 'brother,' but struggles with his own conflicted feelings about the arranged marriage.

Texas Ranch
7

Growing Affection

As time passes, Abby begins to develop real feelings for her husband, complicating Bill's emotional landscape. The ranch foreman becomes suspicious of their facade, threatening to unveil their secret.

Texas Ranch
8

The Locust Swarm

A devastating locust swarm strikes the ranch, followed by fierce fires that destroy the wheat fields. This disaster ignites the farmer's fury towards Bill, who is caught in the ensuing chaos.

Texas Ranch
9

Desperate Escalation

In an attempt to protect his loved ones, Bill is forced to take drastic actions that result in the farmer's tragic death. This irreversible decision sends shockwaves through their makeshift family.

Texas Ranch
10

Fleeing from the Law

With the farmer dead and their protector gone, Bill, Abby, and Linda are left with no choice but to flee from the authorities. Their struggle for survival intensifies as they become fugitives.

Texas Panhandle
11

Bill's Sacrifice

During their escape, Bill is mortally wounded while trying to protect Abby and Linda. His tragic end marks the culmination of their desperate fight for freedom and safety.

Texas Panhandle
12

Abby's Inheritance

After Bill's death, Abby unexpectedly inherits the farmer's vast estate. She decides to leave her troubling past behind and boards a train toward the front lines of World War I.

Train station
13

Linda's New Journey

In the aftermath of the tumultuous events, Linda chooses to abandon her schooling. She joins a friend from the farm on a path filled with uncertainty, seeking new opportunities ahead.

Texas Panhandle
14

Continued Struggles

As Abby embarks on her journey towards World War I, the impact of the choices made weighs heavily on her. She faces the uncertainties of war, haunted by the memories of her lost loved ones.

Train towards World War I

Last Updated: November 21, 2024 at 09:31

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