The Royal Tenenbaums

Royal and Etheline Tenenbaum live in luxury in New York City, raising their three exceptionally talented children. Despite their wealth, the dynamics of their family life are complicated, marked by Royal's brash demeanor and emotional distance.

Following the birth of their children, Royal and Etheline decide to separate. Royal chooses an extravagant hotel as his residence, creating a significant emotional gap in the family, which lasts for the next twenty-two years.

As an adult, Chas struggles with the recent death of his wife in a plane crash. Now a single father, he is determined to protect his two sons, Ari and Uzi, leading him to move back in with his mother, Etheline.

Margot is trapped in an unfulfilling marriage to an older neurologist, Raleigh St. Clair. She battles writer's block, unhappiness, and secretly engages in an affair with her brother's close friend, Eli Cash.

Richie, once a promising tennis player, grapples with the aftermath of a breakdown during an important match that led to his retirement. He is haunted by his unresolved feelings for Margot, adding to his emotional struggles.

Etheline's accountant, Henry Sherman, proposes to her, igniting a mix of emotions. While she has feelings for Henry, Etheline hesitates, needing space to navigate her longstanding ties to Royal.

In a desperate attempt to reunite his family, Royal fabricates a story about having stomach cancer. His manipulative plan is intended to elicit sympathy and reconnect with Etheline and their children before his purported death.

Royal's deception is uncovered when Henry discovers the truth behind Royal's fake illness. The revelation sparks outrage in Etheline and results in her setting firm boundaries, forcing Royal to leave the family home.

Struggling with the emotional fallout from uncovering Margot's secrets and feeling overshadowed by family tension, Richie attempts suicide. His survival marks a breaking point for the family, leading to deep introspection and healing.

Amid their shared trauma, Richie and Margot confess their mutual feelings for one another, fostering a sense of hope. Their relationship hints at the possibility of healing within the dysfunctional family structure.

In a pivotal moment, Royal finally grants Etheline the divorce she has long desired. This act not only signifies his acceptance of their past but also paves the way for Etheline's future with Henry Sherman.

On the day of Etheline's wedding to Henry, chaos erupts when Eli Cash crashes his vehicle into their house. This incident injures Chas and brings the family together, reinforcing their shared struggles and need for healing.

In a moment of reconciliation, Royal gifts Chas a Dalmatian to help ease his pain over the loss of their pet. This small act signifies Royal's desire to reconnect and support his family amidst their turbulent dynamics.

Etheline and Henry finally celebrate their marriage in a simple yet heartfelt ceremony. The occasion marks a new beginning for Etheline, contrasting with the emotional chaos that preceded it.

At the age of 68, Royal passes away from a heart attack, leaving his family to reflect on their tumultuous history. They gather at his funeral, contemplating the complexities of their relationships and Royal's ultimate impact on their lives.