Shirley

Fred and Rose Nemser, a newlywed couple, arrive at Bennington College where Fred will be working as a lecturer. This move marks the beginning of their new life together and sets the stage for the complex interactions they will have with Stanley Hyman and Shirley Jackson.

Stanley Hyman asks Rose to help with chores around the house as Shirley struggles with severe agoraphobia and is focused on her writing. Rose soon discovers that her role is more akin to that of a housekeeper, highlighting the imbalanced dynamics within the Hyman-Jackson household.

Initially, Shirley is harsh and dismissive towards Rose, creating a strained environment filled with tension. Rose grapples with her new responsibilities while trying to win Shirley's approval, but feels increasingly trapped in the toxic atmosphere shaped by Stanley's controlling behavior.

As tension simmers, Shirley announces her focus on writing a new project based on the mysterious disappearance of Paula Jean Welden. This project not only serves as a creative outlet for Shirley but also draws Rose deeper into the murky waters of their intertwined lives.

Stanley's obsessive control over Shirley's writing becomes increasingly evident, as he simultaneously admires her genius while trying to dominate her creativity. This dynamic complicates their relationship and reveals the depths of Stanley's possessiveness.

Despite their rocky start, Shirley eventually sees Rose as a muse and seeks her help for research on Paula's case. This development marks a turning point in their relationship as they begin to form a complicated bond that intertwines admiration and dependency.

As their relationship grows, Rose is enlisted for morally questionable tasks, such as obtaining Paula's medical records. The ethical implications of their friendship become increasingly blurred as loyalty to Shirley deepens.

Meanwhile, the rapport between Stanley and Fred declines, with Stanley actively undermining Fred's academic ambitions. This toxic rivalry not only threatens Fred’s career but also puts a strain on his marriage to Rose as tensions mount.

Amidst the chaos, Rose welcomes a new child, further complicating their situation. While she tries to navigate motherhood, Shirley becomes consumed by her writing, remaining oblivious to the mounting tension surrounding the Nemsers.

Feeling that the time has come to evict the Nemsers, Stanley orchestrates their ousting from the household. Rose, desperate to hold onto their home and place in Shirley's life, resorts to drastic measures in an attempt to protect them.

In a shocking confrontation, Shirley acknowledges Stanley's infidelity and reveals Fred's betrayal with his students. This revelation devastates Rose, shaking the foundation of her trust and forcing her to reevaluate her marriage.

Overcome by despair, Rose finds herself at the spot where Paula disappeared, contemplating her own future. This pivotal moment showcases her vulnerability and need for clarity amidst the chaos around her.

Ultimately, Rose decides to leave the Hyman-Jackson household with Fred, striving to reclaim her independence and break free from the roles imposed on her. This act of defiance marks a turning point in her journey towards self-discovery.

Alone at last, Shirley grants Stanley access to her manuscript, which he praises as a masterpiece. Their fleeting moment of joy through a celebratory dance hints at the complexity of their relationship amidst the chaos of their lives.