Grace Is Gone

Grace Is Gone

Year: 2007

Runtime: 85 min

Language: English

Director: James C. Strouse

Drama

A former military man working as a store clerk finds it difficult to connect with his daughters while their mother is serving in Iraq. He grapples with the responsibilities of single parenthood when a sudden tragedy occurs, forcing him to face a devastating reality and make difficult decisions. A heartfelt road trip ensues, gradually revealing a loving father struggling to protect his daughters' innocence amidst life-altering news.

Warning: spoilers below!

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Timeline – Grace Is Gone (2007)

Trace every key event in Grace Is Gone (2007) 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

Stanley in Support Group

The story begins with Stanley Phillips, the only man in a support group for spouses of military personnel. This setting underscores his isolation and foreshadows the heavy emotional burden he is about to face.

Support group meeting
2

Devastating News

The following day, Stanley receives the heartbreaking news about the death of his wife, a soldier in Iraq. Overwhelmed with grief, he struggles to process his emotions and find the right way to communicate this tragedy to his two young daughters.

3

Daughters Return Home

When his daughters, Heidi and Dawn, come home from school, they are surprised to find their father waiting for them. Stanley tries to maintain a facade of normalcy, unsure of how to share the devastating news that has shattered their family.

Home
4

Neighbor's Kindness

Heidi brings in a casserole left by a compassionate neighbor, which Stanley insists they shouldn't eat yet. This moment highlights the community's support surrounding them while Stanley grapples with the impending revelation.

Home
5

Decision to Distract

In a bid to shield his daughters from the heartbreaking news, Stanley decides to take them out for an evening of distraction. This impromptu outing represents his desire to protect them, even as he struggles with his own overwhelming pain.

Family SUV
6

Trip to Enchanted Gardens

As they journey toward a local entertainment complex, Stanley learns about Dawn's wish to visit 'Enchanted Gardens' in Florida. Despite Heidi's concerns about her schoolwork, Stanley chooses to embrace this spontaneous plan, hoping to uplift their spirits.

On the road to Florida
7

Leaving Messages

Throughout their trip, Stanley leaves emotional updates on their home answering machine. Each message serves as a painful reminder of his wife's absence while he attempts to navigate the difficult emotions of his daughters and himself.

Home
8

Heidi Contacts School

Amidst the upheaval, Heidi tries to manage her school report about their mother. The sympathetic school secretary misunderstands her distress, thinking she simply misses her mom, illustrating the family's hidden grief.

School
9

Arrival at Enchanted Gardens

Upon arriving at Enchanted Gardens, Heidi begins to notice Stanley's unusual behavior. His willingness to allow them to pierce their ears, contrary to their family rules, signals that he is trying to give them freedom amidst their sorrow.

Enchanted Gardens
10

Beach Sunset

After a day of fun at the amusement park, Stanley takes his exhausted daughters to the beach to watch the sunset. This moment becomes pivotal as he prepares to finally open up about their mother's tragic death.

Beach
11

Breaking the News

In a poignant exchange, Stanley breaks the silence and tells his daughters that their mother, Grace, has passed away. This heart-wrenching moment is filled with emotion and signals the beginning of their grieving process.

Beach
12

Heidi's Eulogy

The film culminates with Heidi presenting a heartfelt school report as a eulogy for their mother at the church. This act allows the family to honor Grace's memory while showcasing their love and the impact of her absence.

Church
13

Family at the Grave

The remaining family members gather at Grace Phillip's grave, united in their shared grief. This final scene captures their emotional journey and the love that binds them, even in the face of loss.

Grave site

Last Updated: November 02, 2024 at 12:18

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Grace Is Gone Summary

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Grace Is Gone Summary

Characters, Settings & Themes in Grace Is Gone

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Characters, Settings & Themes in Grace Is Gone

More About Grace Is Gone

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