Endings, Beginnings (2020) Characters, Setting & Themes Explained

The story primarily takes place in present-day Los Angeles, particularly at Daphne's sister's poolhouse where she retreats during her difficult period. Additional scenes occur in a European city, which highlights cultural contrasts and emotional ties, as well as at Daphne's parents' home where family tensions surface during significant events.

• los angeles
• poolhouse
• european city
• settings
• locations

The film is set in contemporary present-day society, reflecting current social dynamics and modern relationship challenges. This modern setting allows the movie to explore self-discovery and romance within today's cultural context.

• present day
• contemporary
• time period
• modern setting

The movie explores three central themes: heartbreak following Daphne's painful breakup and its impact on family bonds; self-discovery as Daphne confronts her past relationships and their effects on her identity; and motherhood as she faces an unplanned pregnancy while dealing with unresolved emotions.

• heartbreak
• self-discovery
• motherhood
• themes
• emotional journey

Daphne is the protagonist portrayed by Shailene Woodley, a woman navigating a tumultuous phase after a painful breakup. She exhibits both resilience and vulnerability as she balances desire with responsibility, particularly when facing an unexpected pregnancy. Her relationships with two different men challenge her understanding of love and self-worth.

• daphne
• shailene woodley
• protagonist
• main character

Frank, played by Sebastian Stan, is a charismatic and adventurous figure who represents the thrill of spontaneity and the complexities of desire. His charming exterior masks deeper emotional insecurities, particularly when confronted with Jack's connection to Daphne. He embodies the allure of living in the moment while grappling with the consequences of his actions.

• frank
• sebastian stan
• love interest
• character role

Jack, portrayed by Jamie Dornan, serves as a grounding force in Daphne's life, offering stability and intellectual engagement. His introspective nature contrasts with Frank's wildness, making him a thoughtful partner. He represents the opportunity for a more profound, meaningful connection while also highlighting the tension of romantic rivalry between the two men.

• jack
• jamie dornan
• love interest
• relationship
• stability

Sue, played by Wendie Malick, is Daphne's mother and a complex maternal figure whose romantic entanglements have profound effects on her daughters. Her lack of empathy during Daphne's crisis highlights generational differences in dealing with relationships. Sue's character undergoes scrutiny as she reflects on her choices, ultimately serving as a catalyst for Daphne's growth.

• sue
• wendie malick
• mother
• maternal figure
• family

Through Daphne's journey, the film illustrates that self-discovery often comes through confronting past relationships and their effects on one's identity. Her interactions with both Frank and Jack allow her to explore different facets of herself, ultimately helping her reclaim her independence and understand her own worth outside of romantic relationships.

• self-discovery
• identity
• personal growth
• introspection

Motherhood emerges dramatically as Daphne faces an unplanned pregnancy amidst her romantic turmoil. The film addresses the complexities of preparing for motherhood while dealing with unresolved emotions and the necessity for personal growth during this pivotal life change, exploring how women navigate multiple transformative experiences simultaneously.

• pregnancy
• motherhood
• unplanned pregnancy
• maternal journey

The film carries a melancholic tone stemming from Daphne's initial heartbreak and ongoing confusion, but evolves into a more hopeful ending as she achieves independence and reconciliation. The emotional weight is medium, dealing with serious themes of betrayal and life-altering decisions without becoming overwhelming, while maintaining a reflective, character-focused pace.

• tone
• melancholy
• emotional
• mood
• style

Daphne's sister's poolhouse serves as a serene retreat away from the chaos of her life, representing a space for healing and self-reflection. This transitional living space symbolizes her in-between status, separated from her past relationship but not yet fully moved forward, providing the physical backdrop for her emotional transformation.

• poolhouse
• retreat
• healing
• symbolic setting

The scenes in a European city highlight cultural contrasts and emotional ties, providing a different atmospheric backdrop that contrasts with Daphne's everyday life in Los Angeles. These moments offer introspection and serve as a catalyst for deeper emotional revelations, representing the universal nature of love and self-discovery beyond familiar surroundings.

• europe
• travel
• cultural contrast
• emotional journey