Secrets & Lies

After the death of her adoptive mother, Hortense Cumberbatch, a black optometrist in London, decides to trace her family history. Despite facing warnings about the potential difficulties from public officials, she is determined to uncover her origins.

During her search, Hortense discovers that her birth mother is a white woman named Cynthia Purley. This revelation surprises Hortense and adds a complex layer to her identity as she navigates her mixed heritage.

Cynthia Purley lives in East London with her other daughter, Roxanne, who works as a street sweeper. Their relationship is strained, and Cynthia is depicted as struggling with her circumstances and familial tensions.

Cynthia's younger brother, Maurice, makes a surprise visit to see her after a long absence. Their meeting is emotional, as Cynthia expresses her feelings of neglect, and Maurice offers financial support for her home repairs.

Cynthia learns that Roxanne has a boyfriend named Paul whom she has yet to meet. This news triggers a heated argument between mother and daughter, and Roxanne storms out, leaving Cynthia distraught.

Hortense manages to contact Cynthia by phone, inquiring about her birth. Initially distressed, Cynthia hangs up when she realizes who is calling but is eventually persuaded by Hortense to meet in person.

When Hortense and Cynthia meet, Cynthia is shocked to see that her daughter is black. After a tense conversation, they both start to share information about their lives, and Cynthia's denial begins to crack.

Successfully striking up a friendship, Hortense and Cynthia begin to spend more time together. This newfound relationship raises questions for Roxanne, who notices her mother’s unusual behavior and secrecy.

As Roxanne’s 21st birthday party approaches, Cynthia invites Hortense to join the celebration as her work colleague. Hortense reluctantly agrees, indicating the depth of their growing relationship.

At the barbecue, dynamics become tense as Monica, Maurice's wife, attempts to be gracious while subtly belittling Cynthia. During this event, Cynthia reveals to Roxanne that she is Hortense's mother, which leads to chaos.

Roxanne is furious after overhearing the revelation about her mother's true identity, assuming Cynthia is drunk. She storms out of the celebration, prompting Maurice to intervene and calm the situation.

As the tensions escalate inside, Cynthia finally opens up about her past, explaining her teenage pregnancy and adoption decision. This moment of vulnerability shifts the dynamics and understanding among the family members.

Maurice confronts Roxanne at a nearby bus stop, encouraging her to listen to her mother's side of the story. This confrontation can be seen as a critical moment for familial healing despite their tumultuous histories.

After the party and the emotional upheaval, Hortense visits Cynthia and Roxanne together. They talk candidly about their past and express a willingness to build a relationship moving forward, marking a hopeful new chapter.

Cynthia expresses to Roxanne that she would be happy to introduce Hortense as her half-sister despite the complicated explanations. This moment signifies a step towards healing and the creation of a new family bond.