Loving

Loving

Year: 2016

Runtime: 123 min

Language: English

Director: Jeff Nichols

BiographyDramaHistoryRomance

In this powerful true story, Richard and Mildred Loving's all-consuming love for each other is pitted against the bigotry of their time. Married in 1958, they spend nine years fighting for the right to live together as a family, taking their civil rights case all the way to the Supreme Court, ultimately changing the course of history for generations to come.

Warning: spoilers below!

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Timeline – Loving (2016)
Trace every key event in Loving (2016) 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

Meeting on the Porch

Richard Loving enjoys a peaceful afternoon on the porch with his girlfriend, Mildred. This moment highlights their interracial romance set against the backdrop of the mid-1950s in Virginia, a time rife with racial tensions.

Mid-1950s Virginia
2

A Drag Race Event

Richard moderates a drag race that attracts participants from both races, showcasing a rare moment of racial integration. Despite the societal norms of segregation, the event is lively and upcoming, indicating a deeper bond in their community.

Virginia
3

Future Plans in a Field

In a tranquil field, Richard makes romantic plans for their future, expressing his desire to build a home with Mildred. This pivotal moment solidifies their commitment to each other and foreshadows the challenges they'll later face.

Empty Field
4

Pregnancy News

Mildred reveals that she is pregnant, prompting the couple to consider marriage. Understanding the legal repercussions in Virginia, they decide to travel to Washington, D.C. where their marriage would be recognized.

Virginia
5

The Marriage

Richard and Mildred get married in Washington, D.C., a crucial act of defiance against Virginia's laws on interracial marriage. They return home hopeful, but soon the harsh reality of their situation begins to unfold.

Washington, D.C.
6

Caught and Arrested

The sheriff discovers their marriage and promptly arrests them. Richard is released on bail, but the heavily pregnant Mildred is forced to spend time in a separate cell, emphasizing the emotional turmoil they face.

Virginia
7

A Heartbreaking Decision

After hiring a lawyer, Richard learns they can only avoid jail time by leaving Virginia for 25 years. The couple faces a painful decision, resulting in their relocation to Washington, D.C., which proves challenging for them.

Virginia to Washington, D.C.
8

Struggles in D.C.

Adjusting to life in Washington, D.C. proves difficult as they long for the familiarity of Virginia. Mildred feels the weight of city life, especially after a near-tragic incident involving their son.

Washington, D.C.
9

Seeking Help

Motivated by her family's support and her love for Richard, Mildred writes to Attorney General Robert Kennedy. This act marks the beginning of their fight against the oppressive miscegenation laws that threaten their family.

10

ACLU Involvement

The American Civil Liberties Union steps in to support Richard and Mildred's case, offering legal assistance without charge. This partnership opens new possibilities in their quest for justice.

11

Going to Court

As the couple prepares for their Supreme Court case, they face various setbacks, including a negative ruling from the Virginia Supreme Court. Their struggle garners media attention, highlighting the significance of their fight.

Virginia
12

A Reporter’s Coverage

A reporter from *Life Magazine* begins documenting Richard and Mildred's story, capturing the intimate aspects of their relationship. These insights bring national attention to their battle for love and equality.

13

Victory in the Supreme Court

After a long struggle, Mildred learns that the Supreme Court has unanimously ruled in their favor, striking down laws enforcing segregation. This pivotal moment validates their love and signifies a monumental change in civil rights.

14

Return to Virginia

The film concludes as Richard lays bricks on the home he envisioned with Mildred in Virginia. Their family of five symbolizes a culmination of their struggles, showcasing a hopeful future that contrasts with the past.

Virginia
15

Bittersweet Endings

Despite their victory, Richard dies in a car accident just eight years after the ruling, while Mildred lives until 2008. Their legacy of love and perseverance remains a powerful testament to their journey.

Last Updated: November 07, 2024 at 23:08

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