The Brood

The Brood

Year: 1979

Runtime: 92 min

Language: English

Director: David Cronenberg

Sci-FiHorror

A brilliant but unconventional doctor pioneers a radical psychotherapy to help a pregnant patient struggling with intense emotional distress. His experimental methods involve a unique cloning process, but when grotesque creatures begin appearing, he realizes his treatment has unleashed a terrifying and uncontrollable force. As the doctor investigates, he must confront the horrifying consequences of his ambition and protect his family from the monstrous brood he inadvertently created.

Warning: spoilers below!

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Timeline – The Brood (1979)

Trace every key event in The Brood (1979) 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

Dr. Raglan's Humiliation of Mike

At the Somafree Institute, Dr. Hal Raglan publicly humiliates his patient Mike during a therapy session. He attributes Mike's perceived weaknesses to his mother, stating it might have been better had he been born a girl, leaving the audience shocked by the callous display.

Somafree Institute
2

Frank Finds Bruises on Candy

Frank Carveth picks up his daughter, Candy, from a private guest room. Upon giving her a bath, he discovers bruises and scratches on her back, raising immediate concerns about her wellbeing and prompting him to seek answers from Dr. Raglan.

3

Confrontation at the Institute

Determined to see his wife Nola, Frank confronts Dr. Raglan at the Somafree Institute. Raglan, citing legal reasons, refuses Frank's request, which fuels Frank’s frustration and determination to seek justice for his family.

Somafree Institute
4

Seeking Legal Counsel

Frustrated by Raglan's refusal, Frank consults his lawyer, Al Resnikoff. Al informs Frank that Nola holds a stronger legal position due to her commitment, complicating Frank's efforts to gain access to his wife and daughter.

5

Juliana's Attack

Later that night, Frank's mother-in-law, Juliana, is brutally attacked in her home by a small child in a red hooded coat. Candy, who witnesses the horrifying event, is left in shock and silence.

Night Juliana's home
6

Frank Meets with Dr. Birkin

The next morning, Frank meets with police psychologist Dr. Birkin, who advises him to help Candy recall the traumatic events. Dr. Birkin warns that repressed memories can lead to severe psychological issues, further pressing Frank's concerns for his daughter's safety.

7

Raglan's Manipulation of Nola

Back at the Somafree Institute, Dr. Raglan poses as Candy’s father while attempting to provoke Nola into expressing her anger. This manipulation results in physical manifestations of her rage, revealing the deep psychological issues haunting her.

Somafree Institute
8

Barton Kelly's Arrival

Frank encounters Barton Kelly, Nola's estranged father, who has come to attend the funeral of his ex-wife. Their shared grief and frustration towards Raglan connect them in their quest for answers regarding Nola's treatment.

Airport
9

Barton’s Confrontation

Barton Kelly confronts Dr. Raglan at the Institute, seeking to see Nola. In a tragic turn, Barton is brutally murdered by the hooded creature later that night, escalating the horror surrounding Raglan's practices.

Night Somafree Institute
10

Ruth's Call from Nola

Ruth Mayer, Candy's teacher, unknowingly answers a call from Nola, which ignites jealousy in Nola. This emotional trigger leads to chaotic events, showcasing the connection between Nola's rage and the violence that follows.

11

The Discovery of Barton's Murder

Frank learns from a pathologist that the creature responsible for Barton's death was not human but a manifestation of Nola's suppressed rage. This revelation adds a layer of horror to the unfolding events and casts doubt on everyone's safety.

Police Station
12

Frank's Struggle to Protect Candy

As the horror continues, Frank grows increasingly anxious about the safety of Candy. Nola's rage manifests in violent ways, and Frank realizes he must act quickly to protect her from the evil that surrounds them.

13

The Climax: Discovering Nola's Secret

In a heart-wrenching climax, Frank uncovers the terrible truth: Nola has given birth to the Brood children, who carry out her dark wishes. Raglan reveals that she must suppress her rage for Candy's safety, forcing Frank to confront a horrifying reality.

Somafree Institute
14

The Confrontation with Nola

Frank intervenes in Nola's rage-fueled delivery of the Brood, leading to a chaotic confrontation. In a desperate bid to save Candy, he ultimately strangles Nola, severing the connection that animated the creatures.

Somafree Institute
15

Aftermath and Realization

As silence falls over the institute, Frank finds a terrified Candy, now seemingly marked by her mother's rage. The realization of their dark, shared legacy leaves them both haunted as they drive home, plunging into an uncertain future.

Last Updated: November 03, 2024 at 13:09

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The Brood Summary

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Characters, Settings & Themes in The Brood

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