Hanging Up

The film opens with an introduction to the three Mozell sisters, set against the vibrant backdrop of New York City. Georgia, the eldest at 50, is a successful magazine editor, Maddy, the youngest at 34, is a novice soap opera actress, and Eve, the middle sister at 39, is managing her life in Los Angeles while caring for their elderly father.

Eve's concern escalates when Lou, their 79-year-old father, shows signs of senility, prompting her to admit him to the hospital for tests. This decision marks a pivotal moment in the sisters’ understanding of their father's frailty and the challenges of caring for aging parents.

While in the hospital, Lou reflects on his past, reminiscing about writing a screenplay with his wife for a John Wayne film. This moment adds depth to his character, showcasing the cherished memories that shape his identity.

As Lou's mental state worsens, he confuses Eve with an old flame, Cleo, highlighting the painful disconnect between them. Eve's emotional struggle to connect with her father reflects the complexity of familial relationships, especially in times of crisis.

Eve's flashback to Christmas 1988 shows her and her sisters discovering Lou with their dental hygienist. This shocking moment leads Eve to confront their mother, Pat, urging her to return to Lou, but Pat remains firm in her decision to leave, adding layers of familial tension.

In an effort to boost Lou's spirits, Eve takes him out to get a Christmas tree. This outing serves as a moment of connection and nostalgia, allowing them to share some fleeting joy amidst the confusion of Lou's condition.

Maddy arrives with an enormous St. Bernard, creating a series of humorous moments that bring levity to the family's increasingly tense situation. This light-heartedness contrasts with the underlying struggles of the sisters as they cope with Lou's health.

In a surprising turn, Lou escapes the hospital and makes his way back home, causing alarm and concern among his daughters. Eve's frantic search for him reflects the chaos that defines their family life and highlights the urgency of Lou's declining health.

As Eve juggles her responsibilities, she prepares for Georgia's upcoming speech to a women's group. Her efforts illustrate the pressures the sisters face in balancing their personal aspirations with family obligations.

In a desperate attempt to make peace with her father, Eve lies about her mother supposedly passing away. Lou's quiet response, 'I won,' underscores the complexity of their relationship and the unspoken truths they navigate as a family.

At the women's event, Georgia delivers a eulogy for Lou that comes across as insincere, shocking her sisters. This moment sparks a clash of emotions amongst the sisters, highlighting their unresolved issues with both Lou and their mother.

As the sisters gather by Lou's bedside during his final moments, they confront their grief when they learn he has slipped into a coma. Their vigil reflects the culmination of their emotional journey, filled with love, anger, and unresolved feelings.

In a heartbreaking moment, Lou awakens briefly to respond to Eve, but he soon passes away. The loss of their father leaves the sisters in profound grief, marking a significant transition in their lives that they must now navigate together.

Months later, the sisters gather for Thanksgiving, engaging in a light-hearted food fight while preparing the turkey. This moment of joy and laughter amidst memories of their father illustrates the enduring bonds of family despite their loss.

As they reminisce about their father, the sisters share cherished memories of him dancing with them and their mother. This poignant reflection not only honors their past but also solidifies the love that binds them together as sisters.