The Discovery

The Discovery

Year: 2017

Runtime: 102 min

Language: English

Director: Charlie McDowell

Sci-FiDramaMysteryThrillerRomance

Following a scientist’s discovery that proves life continues after death, society grapples with profound existential questions. Dr. Thomas Harbor’s revelation sends shockwaves through the world, leading to widespread chaos and despair. His son, Will, becomes involved in a complex mystery alongside a captivating young woman as they explore the implications of this groundbreaking finding and confront the mysteries of love, loss, and the unknown.

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Timeline – The Discovery (2017)

Trace every key event in The Discovery (2017) 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

Thomas's Discovery

Thomas Harbor verifies the existence of an afterlife through scientific means, leading to a groundbreaking revelation. However, this discovery comes with unintended consequences, including a surge in suicide rates, sparking intense debate and controversy.

2

Interview with Thomas

During an interview, Thomas is confronted by Mary Steenburgen about the implications of his findings. Despite being pressed to take responsibility, Thomas vehemently denies feeling any guilt over the consequent increase in suicides.

3

Tragic Live Event

In a shocking turn of events, a crew member takes his own life live on air, demonstrating the profound impact of Thomas's discovery. This tragedy deepens the weight of Thomas's revelation and its repercussions on society.

4

Will Meets Isla

Two years later, Thomas's son Will boards a ferry, where he meets Isla. Their conversation reveals a deep connection, while Will expresses distress over the ongoing suicides that plagued their lives since his father’s revelation.

Ferry
5

Visit to Father's Mansion

Will's brother, Toby, picks him up and takes him to their father's secluded mansion, where Thomas conducts his controversial operations. Upon arrival, Will discovers that the staff consists of individuals who have all attempted suicide.

Thomas's Mansion
6

Confrontation with Thomas

As Will investigates the mansion, he confronts his father about the surge in suicides, blaming him for the dire consequences of his findings. This confrontation showcases the strained relationship between father and son amid the chaos.

Thomas's Mansion
7

Isla's Drowning Incident

Will sees Isla walking into the water with a weighted backpack and swiftly intervenes to save her from drowning. After rescuing her, Isla becomes an integral part of the bizarre household created by Thomas.

Beach
8

The Machine's Dark Purpose

Thomas reveals his invention—a machine capable of recording the experiences of those who have died. However, its chilling requirement involves using the corpse of a deceased person, leading Will and his companions down a dark path.

9

Will's Confession

In a moment of vulnerability, Will shares the pain of his mother's suicide with Isla, strengthening their connection. This sharing of grief serves as a catalyst for their growing bond amidst the ongoing turmoil.

10

Machine Failure

Will and the group attempt to capture images of the afterlife using the machine but are met with failure. Determined to uncover the truth, Will sneaks into the machine room and reconnects a crucial piece of wiring.

Machine Room
11

Revelation from the Recording

After fixing the machine, Will witnesses Pat Phillips’ journey through a recorded sequence. This prompts an online search, leading Will to discover that renovations have erased the very location depicted in the footage.

Hospital
12

Tension in the Mansion

Tensions rise when Thomas confronts Lacey, blaming her for revealing the device's failures. This confrontation leads to growing unrest within the mansion, challenging Thomas's authority over the staff.

Thomas's Mansion
13

Path to Understanding

Will shows Isla the recording from the machine, leading them to realize it may capture memories instead of the afterlife. They embark on a quest to explore this new revelation and piece together Pat's history.

14

Isla's Tragedy

Isla recounts the heartbreaking loss of her son, revealing the depth of her personal trauma. This exchange further solidifies their bond as they work together to unearth the truth behind Pat's past.

15

Climactic Conflicts and Loss

In a shocking finale, Lacey fatally shoots Isla, leading to her death in Will's arms. Consumed by grief, Will connects himself to the machine, spiraling into a loop of memories as he desperately seeks to alter the past.

Last Updated: November 03, 2024 at 14:02

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The Discovery Summary

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The Discovery Summary

Characters, Settings & Themes in The Discovery

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Characters, Settings & Themes in The Discovery

More About The Discovery

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More About The Discovery

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