Ragtime

The film opens with a dynamic newsreel montage that features iconic figures from the early 20th century, including famed escape artist Harry Houdini and President Theodore Roosevelt. This colorful portrayal of New York City sets the stage for the diverse stories that will unfold throughout the narrative.

We see wealthy industrialist Harry Kendall Thaw create a scene at the unveiling of the statue of Evelyn Nesbit, a former chorus girl and his wife. His anger stems from a belief that architect Stanford White has dishonored her, leading to an intense confrontation.

In a shocking and dramatic moment, Thaw confronts Stanford White in front of numerous spectators and shoots him dead. The shocking act not only disrupts the event but also sets the entire city abuzz with scandal and intrigue.

After killing White, Thaw does not flee the scene but instead chooses to turn himself in to authorities. This decision highlights his complex psychology and sets the stage for the ensuing trial and media frenzy surrounding the case.

Meanwhile, an upper-class family in New Rochelle discovers an abandoned African American baby in their garden. This moment introduces themes of race and societal responsibility, as they contemplate their next steps amidst rising tensions.

The family locates the child's mother, Sarah, an unwed washerwoman. They decide to bring her into their home, further complicating the dynamics within their household as Mother advocates for Sarah against Father's initial resistance.

Coalhouse Walker makes a dramatic entrance in a Model T Ford, asserting himself as the father of the abandoned child and announcing his love for Sarah. His arrival marks a pivotal moment that intertwines the stories of both families.

Younger Brother becomes infatuated with Evelyn Nesbit, his obsession intensifying after witnessing White's murder. His increasing fascination with her adds another layer of tension to the unfolding narrative as he navigates his feelings.

Thaw's lawyer, Delphin, approaches Evelyn with a substantial offer to ensure her silence about Thaw's mental health and White's abuse. This development highlights the manipulative power dynamics at play and Evelyn's precarious position.

Evelyn encounters Tateh, a Jewish street artist facing his own marital issues. Their relationship complicates Evelyn’s struggle for identity and stardom, as she grapples with her ambitions while caught in a turbulent emotional web.

In early 1908, Thaw's trial concludes with a verdict of temporary insanity, shocking the public and impacting Evelyn profoundly. This legal outcome shapes the lives of those involved, leaving lasting repercussions.

As Coalhouse Walker faces discrimination from local firemen, tensions escalate, culminating in the tragic death of Sarah due to racially motivated violence. This event underlines the deep-seated social issues of the time.

Devastated by the injustice against his family, Coalhouse takes action, seeking to reclaim his dignity and justice. His resolve leads him to radical measures that draw the community's attention and fester unrest.

Coalhouse Walker, with Younger Brother's support, takes hostages at the Pierpont Morgan Library, demanding justice and retribution. This climactic event draws law enforcement and forces a confrontation between conflicting ideals.

In the poignant conclusion, a nostalgic newsreel montage reflects on the impact of these events on the central characters. Each character, from Evelyn to Father, contemplates their new realities shaped by societal tensions and personal choices.