One Day

One Day

Year: 2011

Runtime: 108 min

Language: english

Director: Lone Scherfig

ComedyRomance

As Emma and Dexter embark on a two-decade odyssey, July 15th becomes a poignant reminder of their friendship's ebbs and flows. A working-class firecracker and a charming playboy navigate love, loss, and self-discovery, their paths intersecting in unexpected ways. Through triumphs and heartaches, they learn that what they've been searching for was hiding in plain sight all along.

Warning: spoilers below!

Haven’t seen One Day yet? This summary contains major spoilers. Bookmark the page, watch the movie, and come back for the full breakdown. If you're ready, scroll on and relive the story!

Timeline – One Day (2011)
Trace every key event in One Day (2011) 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

Graduation Day

On July 15th, 1988, Emma Morley and Dexter Mayhew celebrate their college graduation, surrounded by friends in their caps and gowns. Their paths cross for the first time, leading to a spontaneous moment of affection as they share a kiss, which sets the groundwork for their complex relationship.

1988
2

New Beginnings

In 1989, Dexter helps Emma move into her first apartment in London as she harbors aspirations to become a writer. Shortly after, Dexter departs for India, highlighting the beginning of their separate journeys and growing independence.

1989 London
3

Unfulfilled Dreams

By 1990, Emma is working as a waitress at a Mexican restaurant, lamenting her unpursued writing ambitions, while Dexter begins a new teaching role. Despite their distant lives, they maintain a phone connection, where Dexter encourages Emma to keep writing, embodying their supportive friendship.

1990 Mexican Restaurant, London
4

The French Vacation

In 1992, Dexter and Emma head to France for a vacation filled with laughter and unspoken feelings. They set playful ground rules to maintain boundaries, yet the chemistry between them grows palpable, leading to moments that challenge their friendship.

1992 France
5

Diverging Paths

In 1995, their lives have taken different directions; Emma is with Ian, while Dexter is rising in the television industry. After a heartfelt reunion, they acknowledge their feelings but are unable to bridge the gap between their current relationships.

1995
6

Struggles of Adulthood

Fast forward to 1996, Emma finds herself unhappy in her relationship with Ian, feeling trapped in a life that lacks fulfillment. Simultaneously, Dexter grapples with his self-destructive lifestyle, leading to a confrontation that forces them to evaluate their friendship.

1996
7

Life Changes

By 2000, Emma has begun to achieve her writing aspirations, while Dexter experiences a demotion due to his recklessness. Their lives continue to intertwine, with heartfelt conversations revealing glimpses of their deeper connection despite their respective commitments.

2000
8

A New Beginning

In 2004, Dexter is preparing to open a small restaurant, symbolizing a newfound sense of stability. Emma, now a successful author, represents the fulfillment of dreams, and their relationship is filled with love and optimism for the future.

2004
9

Tragic News

On July 15th, 2006, Emma and Dexter experience a heartbreaking moment when Emma is tragically killed in an accident. As Dexter listens to her last message, he remains blissfully unaware of the impending tragedy, highlighting the cruel twist of fate.

2006
10

Devastation

In the aftermath of Emma's death in 2007, Dexter is consumed by grief and spirals into self-destruction. He struggles to cope with his loss, affecting his relationship with his daughter, Jasmine, who symbolizes the life and love Emma left behind.

2007
11

Moving Forward

By 2009, Dexter is trying to reclaim control over his life, even as memories of Emma linger. He encounters Ian, who expresses his disdain for the day Emma died, leading to reflective moments on love, loss, and how their relationships changed them both for the better.

2009
12

Reflections

In 2011, the narrative loops back to the joyful celebration of 1988 as Dexter recalls the moments shared with Emma. He shares these cherished memories with his daughter, signifying that although Emma is no longer physically present, her spirit continues to influence Dexter's life.

2011

Last Updated: December 31, 2024 at 18:09

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