Running with Scissors

Running with Scissors

Year: 2006

Runtime: 116 min

Language: English

Director: Ryan Murphy

DramaComedy

A young boy's life takes an unexpected turn when his mother, struggling with her own issues, places him in the care of a peculiar psychiatrist. He’s thrust into the therapist’s chaotic and unconventional household, filled with eccentric personalities and unusual behavior. Augusten Burroughs must navigate this bizarre new world, confronting the challenges of family, identity, and growing up in a deeply unconventional environment.

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Timeline – Running with Scissors (2006)

Trace every key event in Running with Scissors (2006) 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

Deirdre's Volatile Behavior

Augusten Burroughs grows up in a household marked by chaos due to his mother's unpredictable mood swings. Her explosive temper creates a tense atmosphere that leaves young Augusten feeling constantly unsafe and anxious.

2

Norman as an Enabler

Augusten's father, Norman, struggles with his own issues and fails to protect his son from Deirdre's erratic outbursts. His impotence in managing the toxic dynamics at home leaves Augusten feeling even more isolated.

3

The Familial Tension Intensifies

Deirdre's paranoia escalates as she claims that Norman intends to harm her, further destabilizing their family. This alarming environment pushes her to make a desperate decision that changes Augusten's life forever.

4

Moving in with Dr. Finch

In a bold move, Deirdre sends Augusten to live with Dr. Finch, an unconventional psychiatrist. The Finches create a new, eccentric household filled with oddities, providing a stark contrast to Augusten's chaotic upbringing.

5

Navigating New Relationships

As Augusten settles into his new life, he faces visits from his increasingly unstable mother. During one visit, he speaks candidly with Natalie, Dr. Finch's daughter, about his emerging sexuality, marking a pivotal moment in his maturation.

6

Connection with Neil Bookman

Augusten forms a complicated and passionate relationship with Neil Bookman, Dr. Finch's adopted son. Their bond is challenged by their age difference and Neil's struggles with his mental health as Augusten approaches his fifteenth birthday.

7

Manipulation by Dr. Finch

Dr. Finch exploits Deirdre's fragile mental state, cleverly manipulating her into transferring her assets to him. This revelation highlights the exploitative dynamics at play within his care of Augusten.

8

Sense of Abandonment

As Augusten grapples with feelings of abandonment, Neil's battle with schizophrenia adds to the turmoil. Additionally, growing resentment from Dorothy, another member of the Finch household, makes Augusten feel increasingly isolated.

9

Augusten's Decision to Leave

In search of liberation and purpose, Augusten makes the emotionally charged decision to leave the Finches. He sets his sights on New York City, motivated by his aspiration to become a writer and escape the chaos of his past.

New York City
10

Farewell with Agnes

Before departing, Augusten shares a heartfelt moment with Agnes, who presents him with a meaningful token from her personal savings. This gesture underscores the emotional weight of their farewell and the bond they shared.

11

Post-Credits Resolutions

In a bittersweet post-credits scene, the fates of each character are revealed. Dr. Finch loses his medical license due to fraud, while other characters seek different paths, with Norman and Augusten reconciling briefly before their respective deaths.

12

Augusten Finds His Path

Ultimately, Augusten emerges from his tumultuous upbringing as a writer. He begins to chronicle the profound experiences that shaped his life, using his past to fuel his creative endeavors.

Last Updated: November 22, 2024 at 18:50

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Running with Scissors Summary

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Running with Scissors Summary

Characters, Settings & Themes in Running with Scissors

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Characters, Settings & Themes in Running with Scissors

More About Running with Scissors

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