Mildred Pierce

The story begins with a startling event as Monte Beragon collapses in the living room of a beach house after a series of gunshots. Whispering the name 'Mildred' before dying, this incident sets the stage for the unfolding drama.

Mildred Pierce-Beragon arrives at the police station, visibly shaken and nervous. She vehemently denies any involvement in her husband's murder, drawing the attention of detectives.

Authorities point to Bert Pierce, Mildred's first husband, as the primary suspect due to his ownership of the murder weapon. Mildred passionately defends Bert, raising suspicions about her intimate knowledge of the situation.

Flashbacks reveal Mildred's life with Bert, where they enjoy a middle-class existence while raising their daughters, Veda and Kay. However, as Bert loses his job, tensions mount over Mildred's spending habits, particularly regarding Veda's wants.

Faced with financial strain and disagreements, Mildred and Bert choose to separate, profoundly affecting their daughters. Kay is heartbroken, while Veda becomes increasingly materialistic, lamenting the loss of her luxuries.

In her quest for financial independence, Mildred takes a job as a waitress. She becomes skilled at her work but keeps it a secret from Veda, fearing her daughter's judgment over their new circumstances.

Determined to rise above her struggles, Mildred partners with family friend Wally Fay to open her own restaurant. Despite initial challenges, this venture brings her unexpected financial success.

The family faces another tragedy when Kay is diagnosed with pneumonia, leading to her untimely death. This heartbreaking event deeply affects Mildred, adding to the family's emotional burdens.

As Mildred's restaurant flourishes, she indulges Veda with luxury gifts, hoping to win her affection. However, this only exacerbates Veda's entitlement and greed, straining their mother-daughter relationship further.

Mildred becomes involved with Monte, whose charm hides his ulterior motives. As he exploits her growing fortune, Mildred ultimately realizes she must end the relationship but at a significant emotional cost.

In a shocking revelation, Veda claims to have eloped with Teddy Forrester but soon exposes her pregnancy as a manipulation to secure money from Mildred. This deceit culminates in a violent confrontation, leading to Veda's expulsion from the house.

Emotionally shattered, Mildred retreats to Mexico for several years, attempting to escape the pain stemming from her tumultuous relationship with Veda. Upon her return, she finds her daughter has become lost to her own desires.

Mildred's reunion with both Bert and Veda proves challenging, filled with tension and disappointment. In a desperate attempt to mend their relationship, she proposes marriage to Monte, hoping to build a stable future.

During a birthday party for Veda, complications arise as Monte mismanages Mildred's finances, severely impacting their relationship. The situation escalates when Mildred discovers Veda and Monte together, leading to Veda's explosive rage.

In a shocking climax, Veda shoots Monte in a fit of jealousy while he gasps Mildred's name. This tragic act leaves Mildred in turmoil as she faces the harsh reality of her daughter's actions, ultimately leading her to call the police.