Man on Fire

Two years after the divorce, Gwen files to reopen the custody case and pursue partial custody of Ted. Ted remains devoted to his father, while Earl struggles with the possibility of losing him.

Bryan Seward uses his influence to reopen the custody hearing, arguing that Gwen signed the agreement under emotional duress. The move signals a new battle over Ted's future. The courtroom atmosphere grows tense as the legal fight resumes.

Earl privately warns Seward that he will do all he can to harm his career if the custody pursuit continues. He makes it clear that he resents the threat to his control over Ted. The warning foreshadows a sharp personal clash ahead.

Sam Dunstock gears up for the upcoming hearing, gathering strategy and documents. In contrast, Nina Wylie, his new assistant, begins to reveal a personal interest in Earl that complicates the professional dynamic.

Ted speaks privately to Judge Rudolph, expressing his preference to live with his father. He probes for a deeper motive behind his mother's push for custody and shows signs of misgivings about Gwen.

Judge Rudolph rules in Gwen's favor, granting full custody rather than a shared arrangement. The decision shocks Earl and leaves Gwen feeling vindicated but uneasy about Ted's happiness.

Overcome by the decision, Earl sinks into an alcoholic binge that shakes his business and personal life. The fall from grace increases the strain on all sides of the custody dispute.

Nina informs Earl that his neglect is harming his business and steps in to care for him when he passes out. She begins to reveal her deeper feelings, which complicate her professional role.

Ted visits Earl's home to express his unhappiness with the situation and stubborn loyalty to his father. The younger man's honesty exposes the emotional cost of the custody battle.

In a impulsive move, Earl signs over power of attorney to Sam and announces plans to travel to Europe for peace of mind. The decision alarms those who fear Ted could be taken out of reach of the court.

Nina realizes Earl's plan to remove Ted from court oversight and urges Sam to call Seward. The warning catalyzes the effort to stop the potential flight.

Seward arrives in time to pull Ted off the plane, triggering a confrontation between him and Earl. The airport confrontation becomes a pivotal clash over Ted's fate.

Gwen reveals to Nina that she wanted Ted back because she and Seward cannot have a child of their own. Her confession deepens Nina's conflicted feelings and guilt.

Earl comes to realize how much Gwen loves Ted and that the custody battle has hurt him most of all. He convinces Ted that a change in custody would be best for all involved.

Earl begins a new life with Nina, signified by him handing her the dime as a symbol of moving on. The film closes on a note of hope and a fresh start.