Is Anybody There?

In 1987, we meet ten-year-old Edward, who lives in an old people’s home run by his parents, David and Anne-Marie. Surrounded by elderly residents and their fading spirits, he becomes fascinated with uncovering proof of an afterlife, often using his tape recorder to document his eerie encounters.

Edward's life changes when he meets Clarence, a former magician suffering from early dementia. Their first encounter occurs on a lonely stretch of road, where Clarence nearly hits Edward with his camper van, symbolizing the beginning of their unique friendship.

Frustrated by the loss of privacy and freedom in the care home, Edward devises a plan to set off the fire alarm. As the residents shuffle outside into the pouring rain, he revels in the chaos he has created, marking a moment of rebellion against the restrictions of his life.

The next day, Edward discovers Clarence's van with the engine running and accidentally exposes himself to carbon monoxide, leading to Clarence being hospitalized. During this time, Edward explores Clarence's belongings and discovers posters from his glory days as a magician.

Determined to mend their bond, Edward visits Clarence in the hospital, where he brings personal items and offers a heartfelt apology. This visit sparks the beginning of a deep friendship, as they navigate their emotional struggles together.

As their relationship flourishes, Edward introduces Clarence to his special ritual of trying to contact the departed. This shared interest in magic ignites enthusiasm in them both, prompting Edward to learn tricks he can impress upon his classmates.

On Edward's birthday, Clarence surprises him by taking him and his friends for a ride in his van. However, a confusing moment at a roundabout leads to an unexpected accident, causing tensions to rise between Edward and Clarence regarding the existence of an afterlife.

At the birthday celebration held at the home, Clarence decides to perform some magic tricks. While the audience is entertained, a trick intended to fake a finger being cut off goes terribly wrong, leading to laughter but also highlighting Clarence's declining abilities.

In a poignant moment, Edward organizes a visit to Clarence's wife's grave. However, Clarence's dementia takes a toll as he fails to recognize the grave, mistaking Edward's mother for his late wife, leading to a touching yet emotionally heavy reconciliation.

Tragically, Clarence passes away, leaving a profound impact on Edward. This loss forces Edward to reflect on life and the emotional growth he has experienced through their friendship, marking a significant turning point in his journey.

In the wake of Clarence's death, Edward's experiences inspire him to reach out to his own parents. Motivated by a newfound sense of hope and maturity, they decide to rekindle their strained relationship, suggesting a brighter future ahead.