The Savages

In sunny Arizona, Lenny expresses his frustration with his girlfriend’s home health aide in an unusual way. He writes his feelings on the bathroom wall, shocking his loved ones.

Meanwhile, in New York City, Wendy is focused on making a name for herself as a playwright. To cope with pressure, she fabricates a story about an abnormal pap smear to explain her emotional turmoil to her married boyfriend, Larry.

Upon learning about their father's deteriorating condition, Wendy contacts her brother Jon, who lives in Buffalo. Despite her distress, Jon is hesitant to get involved in their father's issues.

The situation escalates when Lenny's girlfriend unexpectedly dies during a manicure session. This tragic event prompts Wendy and Jon to travel together to Arizona to confront their father’s situation.

Wendy and Jon are shocked to find that Lenny has been hospitalized at the suggestion of his girlfriend's children. They learn that there is a legal arrangement aiming to remove Lenny from his home.

During their visit to Lenny, a doctor informs Wendy and Jon that he is showing signs of dementia, likely connected to Parkinson's Disease. This revelation deepens their concern about how to care for him moving forward.

In search of answers, Wendy and Jon venture to a nightclub to discuss their father's future care options. Conflicted, Wendy considers placing him in a nursing home while grappling with her father's wellbeing.

Later that night, Wendy overhears Jon venting on the phone regarding his breakup with Kasia. This moment highlights both siblings' emotional struggles amidst their chaotic family situation.

Wendy faces heartbreak when she discovers that Jon has arranged for Lenny to move into a nursing home. This decision reignites feelings of guilt and emotional turmoil regarding their father's care.

Wendy brings Lenny home from the hospital and they experience a humorous yet embarrassing incident at the airport when his pants fall down in front of other travelers. This moment adds to the family's stress and challenges.

At the nursing home, Wendy feels a profound sadness as she leaves Lenny in a room that resembles a hospital rather than a caring environment. She notices that he no longer recognizes his surroundings, intensifying her sorrow.

In the midst of managing Lenny's care, Wendy and Jon have heartfelt discussions about their father's end-of-life wishes. They are faced with the difficult reality of his declining health, leading to tense emotions.

As the family comes together during the holidays, Wendy wrestles with her own dilemmas, including her relationship with Larry. Meanwhile, they all take part in workshops on eldercare for better managing Lenny's needs.

A heartbreaking moment arises when Lenny's health deteriorates significantly. Wendy and Jon face the reality of their father's condition, leading to a night spent together in the nursing home as they reflect on their past.

Six months later, Wendy stages a play that brings to light her childhood memories with Lenny. This cathartic experience, supported by Jon, signifies her resilience and the path of moving forward after grief.