Hope Springs

After 31 years of marriage, Kay and Arnold find themselves in a distant and disconnected relationship. They are now sleeping in separate rooms, highlighting the growing chasm between them as they navigate their daily lives in Omaha.

On their anniversary, instead of exchanging meaningful gifts, Kay and Arnold gift each other mundane items like a cable TV package. This act symbolizes the monotony that has seeped into their lives and the apparent lack of emotional connection.

Determined to revive their marriage, Kay discovers a self-help book by Dr. Feld. With newfound hope, she books a week-long therapy retreat in an effort to reignite their intimacy and connection.

When Kay excitedly shares her plans about the therapy retreat, Arnold refuses to attend, dismissing the idea as unnecessary. In a misguided attempt to lighten the mood, he gifts her cheap earrings and flowers, but Kay remains unimpressed.

Kay and Arnold arrive at the picturesque coastal town of Great Hope Springs, checking into a modest hotel. Despite the scenic surroundings, Arnold insists on sleeping in a separate pull-out bed, indicative of the emotional distance between them.

In their first session with Dr. Feld, Arnold displays resistance, labeling their relationship as 'adequate.' Meanwhile, Kay opens up about her longing for affection and intimacy, forcing them to confront their issues for the first time.

As therapy progresses, Kay and Arnold continually unpack their past. Kay recalls the exact date of their last sexual encounter over four years ago, while Arnold struggles to remember, revealing the emotional disconnect in their relationship.

After a challenging therapy session, Kay seeks comfort at a local bar, confiding her frustrations to the bartender. Meanwhile, Arnold finds distraction at a nearby museum, further emphasizing their emotional detachment.

Dr. Feld encourages the couple to discuss deeper facets of their sexual lives. These conversations, although intimate, often lead to discomfort, as they struggle to confront their fantasies and memories, creating tension in the therapeutic process.

In a significant turn of events, Arnold surprises Kay with a romantic dinner, reminiscent of their early days together. As they share a heartfelt evening, a brief glimmer of hope for rekindling their passion emerges.

Despite their efforts, both struggle to maintain the progress made during therapy. Kay expresses doubts regarding Arnold’s affection for her, leading to further introspection about their relationship dynamics.

Upon returning home, Kay and Arnold inevitably slide back into their old routines, continuing to sleep apart and avoiding deep emotional engagement. Their previous breakthroughs seem to fade as they confront the reality of their life in Omaha.

Amidst their struggles, a night of unexpected reconciliation occurs, as they find warmth and intimacy, reigniting a flicker of love. This significant moment provides a renewed sense of connection for the couple.

The film culminates with Dr. Feld officiating Kay and Arnold's vow renewal at the beach. Surrounded by family, they pledge to embrace the changes they both desire, marking a turning point in their relationship.