The Levelling

Clover arrives back at her family's farm in the Somerset Levels, feeling a heavy sorrow after the recent death of her brother, Harry. The once lively property is now filled with a sense of disarray and decay, a reflection of the emotional turmoil that unfolds within the family.

Upon her arrival, Clover finds her father, Aubrey, deeply engulfed in his grief over Harry's death. This affects not only his emotional state but also the atmosphere of the farm, leading to a growing distance between him and Clover as she attempts to connect with him.

While helping Aubrey with farm chores, Clover and farm worker James discover buried badger corpses during their work. This shocking discovery ignites Clover's suspicions regarding her father's involvement, but she learns that it was Harry who had buried the animals.

Clover's anguish deepens as she realizes her father's refusal to accept Harry's suicide, as he believes it was simply an accident. This denial complicates Clover's emotional struggles, adding layers to her attempts to understand her father's pain.

Amidst the emotional turmoil, Clover uncovers the farm's dire financial situation including Aubrey's troubling decision to sell half of their herd. This revelation adds urgency to Clover's efforts to reconnect with her father and salvage their family legacy.

A moment of joy arrives when a pregnant cow gives birth to a male calf on the farm. However, this happiness is quickly overshadowed when Aubrey insists that Clover must cull the newborn, a difficult task for her as a vegetarian and a signal of the family's ongoing struggles.

While cleaning their home, Clover finds cans of petrol in the kitchen, which raises alarms about safety. Later that evening, her warning prompts a profound discussion with James about the risks and pressures they face in their daily lives.

During her conversation with James, Clover learns about a fierce argument that took place between Harry and Aubrey at a party before his death. This insight helps Clover understand the immense pressure Harry was under and sheds light on the family dysfunction.

The arrival of Animal Health brings alarming news to Clover as equipment has arrived to test the herd for tuberculosis. This revelation shocks her as she tries to discuss the implications with Aubrey, but he reacts defensively, blaming her for the family’s strife.

A confrontation between Clover and Aubrey escalates when she questions his denial about Harry's situation. This heated exchange culminates in Aubrey throwing Clover out of their mobile home, leaving her with a heavy heart and doubts about their relationship.

On the day of Harry's funeral, the atmosphere on the farm is somber. Clover prepares to face the difficult day ahead while being unaware of Aubrey’s deepening despair as he spirals further into his grief through self-medication.

Just before leaving for the funeral, Clover discovers that the key to the gun cupboard is missing, raising suspicions about Aubrey's state of mind. The situation turns dire as a gunshot unexpectedly rings out, leading her to the shocking sight of her father culling the herd.

In the aftermath of the shocking events, Aubrey's emotional state collapses as he pleads for Clover to return to university, revealing the depths of his despair. The chaotic scene is marked by Aubrey collapsing in tears, symbolizing the overwhelming burden he carries.

As the father and daughter finally embrace amid their shared grief, it becomes painfully evident that healing will require them both to face their vulnerability. Clover's compassion offers a glimmer of hope in the midst of their profound struggles, as they start to confront their loss together.