The Innocents

The story begins with Miss Giddens applying for her first position as a governess. Despite her lack of experience, the wealthy bachelor she interviews with is desperate to find someone to care for his orphaned niece and nephew, stating that he has no emotional capacity for them.

Upon arriving at Bry, Miss Giddens is enchanted by her new charge, Flora, a bright and quirky child. She quickly bonds with Mrs. Groce, the housekeeper, and learns about Miles, who is away at boarding school, but is soon to return.

Miss Giddens receives a letter indicating that Miles has been expelled from boarding school due to his supposed bad influence. Despite initial doubts about the accusations, she is eager to meet him and find out the truth.

While tending to the rose bushes, Miss Giddens sees a shadowy figure on Bry's towers. She investigates but only finds Miles playing with pigeons, leading to further intrigue about the estate's past.

During a rainy day, Miss Giddens plays hide-and-seek with the children but is soon disturbed by a strange incident. She sees a man leering at her through the window, which shakes her confidence about the children's safety.

After discovering a photograph of a mysterious man, Miss Giddens learns from Mrs. Groce about Peter Quint, the former valet who died tragically. This encounter raises alarming concerns about Quint's relationship with Miles.

Miss Giddens grows fearful as she witnesses the children's strange behavior and believes they are possessed by the spirits of Peter Quint and Miss Jessel. This theory consumes her as she starts finding their actions alarming rather than charming.

Miss Giddens tries to confront Flora about the presence of Miss Jessel, believing that admitting to the haunting will free them. However, Flora vehemently denies seeing anything, exacerbating Giddens' fears.

When alone with Miles, Miss Giddens attempts to understand the source of his disturbing behavior. The situation turns tense as Miles suddenly lashes out, leading to a series of confrontations that expose the children's inner turmoil.

During a frantic confrontation in the garden, Miss Giddens urges Miles to call out Quint's name to rid himself of the haunting. The psychological strain peaks when Miles shouts Quint's name, leading to heartbreaking consequences.

In a devastating moment, after Miles finally admits Quint’s name, he collapses to the ground, revealing that he has died. Miss Giddens' struggle for the children's salvation culminates in a shocking and tragic realization.

Miss Giddens, overwhelmed by grief and despair, cradles Miles’ lifeless body and kisses him passionately. This surreal and heartbreaking conclusion leaves her in a state of turmoil, echoing the film's haunting themes.

The film closes with a chilling image of Miss Giddens’ clasped hands, trembling in despair, harking back to the opening moments. This conveys the pervasive themes of loss, possession, and the fragility of innocence.