The Children Act

The Children Act

Year: 2018

Runtime: 105 min

Language: English

Director: Richard Eyre

Drama

A High Court judge, Fiona Maye, presides over difficult cases while her personal life suffers. Her career takes an unexpected turn when she must rule on a case involving a teenage Jehovah's Witness who refuses a life-saving blood transfusion based on religious beliefs. As she considers the legal and ethical implications, Fiona confronts her own values and embarks on a journey of self-discovery, grappling with the complexities of upholding the law and preserving a young man’s life.

Warning: spoilers below!

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Timeline – The Children Act (2018)

Trace every key event in The Children Act (2018) 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

Fiona's Disturbing Revelation

Fiona Maye, a High Court Judge, receives a shocking confession from her husband Jack. He admits that their marriage is lacking physical intimacy and expresses his desire to have an affair with a much younger woman, which horrifies Fiona.

Gray's Inn Square
2

Haunting Remembrance

The revelation from Jack disturbs Fiona deeply, reminding her of a traumatic case involving the separation of conjoined twins. Despite being praised for her judgment, Fiona is haunted by the consequences of her ruling, causing a rift between her and Jack.

3

Urgent Call to Duty

Amidst their argument, Fiona receives an urgent call regarding a case involving Adam Henry, a Jehovah's Witness refusing necessary medical treatment for leukemia. Driven by her duty as a judge, Fiona heads to the hospital to learn more about Adam's decision.

Hospital
4

Meeting Adam

Fiona meets Adam in the hospital, where he impresses her with his intellect and shares his passion for poetry and music. Their connection deepens during an impromptu violin duet, leaving Fiona invigorated and sympathetic to his plight.

Hospital
5

A Decision Made

Inspired by her encounter with Adam, Fiona rules in favor of the hospital's decision to administer the blood transfusion. Her ruling, however, weighs heavily on her conscience as she returns home to find Jack has come back, complicating her emotions.

6

Strained Marriage

As time passes, the tension between Fiona and Jack persists, despite their attempts at reconciliation. Fiona receives letters from Adam that weigh on her heart, revealing his struggles with faith and his growing disillusionment with his parents.

7

An Unexpected Reunion

During a work trip to Newcastle, Fiona unexpectedly encounters Adam, who expresses his wish to live with her after leaving home. Although Fiona feels a strong connection to him, she insists he should reach out to his mother and turns him down.

Newcastle
8

Intense Farewell

Fiona and Adam share an emotionally charged goodbye that unexpectedly escalates into a passionate kiss. This moment alarms Fiona, creating further internal conflict about her feelings towards her marriage and her role in Adam's life.

9

Rebuilding Bonds

Upon returning home, Fiona and Jack start to mend their relationship, growing closer through shared moments. Despite continued letters from Adam, Fiona shifts her focus as she prepares for a Christmas concert with her colleagues.

10

Devastating News

During the Christmas concert, Fiona receives heartbreaking news of Adam's death from leukemia, just as he reaches legal adulthood. Overcome with regret, Fiona rushes home to share the circumstances surrounding Adam's tragic fate with Jack.

11

Confronting Guilt

Fiona grapples with intense feelings of guilt regarding her involvement in Adam's life and his return to faith. Sharing her emotions with Jack fosters a deeper connection between them as they navigate their grief and complex feelings.

12

Facing the Aftermath

In the aftermath of Adam's death, Fiona reflects on her choices and the impact of her decisions as a judge. This tragic event forces her to reevaluate her priorities and the toll her career has taken on her personal life.

13

Embracing Vulnerability

As Fiona openly discusses her guilt and emotions with Jack, their relationship transforms, allowing for vulnerability. This moment signifies a turning point in their marriage, highlighting the power of connection amidst turmoil.

Last Updated: November 04, 2024 at 00:03

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The Children Act Summary

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The Children Act Summary

Characters, Settings & Themes in The Children Act

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Characters, Settings & Themes in The Children Act

More About The Children Act

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