Year: 2008
Runtime: 116 min
Language: English
Director: Kari Skogland
Ninety-year-old Hagar stubbornly resists losing her independence and undertakes a moving journey back to her childhood home, now fallen into disrepair. As she reflects on the past, she’s forced to confront deeply buried secrets and unresolved feelings. These include the painful reality of a failed marriage and the repercussions of prioritizing love above family expectations, ultimately leading her to a poignant understanding of her life.
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As the cinematic tale unfolds over several decades, it explores the intricate and often tumultuous life of Hagar Shipley (portrayed by Ellen Burstyn), an indomitable matriarch. Faced with the revelation that her son Marvin is planning to move her to a nursing home, Hagar embarks on a deeply emotional journey to reconcile with her past. This discovery triggers a series of poignant flashbacks to her decaying childhood home in rural Manitoba, where she had first shared life with her husband Bram.
In this nostalgic yet painful reflection, Hagar confronts the estrangement from her wealthy father, a shopkeeper who cast her aside for marrying a humble farmer, showcasing how her choices shaped her identity. Throughout her life, Hagar grappled with her perception of superiority, often looking down on her husband and their struggles, particularly as he fell victim to alcoholism.
As the narrative progresses, it becomes evident that Hagar’s relationships were fraught with heartache. Her younger son John, once the apple of her eye, ultimately shattered her heart by becoming involved with Arlene, a free-spirited woman who did not meet Hagar’s high expectations.
Amidst this emotional turmoil, Hagar finds herself retreating from the world, haunted by a long-buried secret surrounding John’s tragic passing. It is through her connection with Leo that she musters the courage to confront this painful truth, illuminating the lasting effects of her unwavering stubbornness on her life’s choices. This cathartic journey leads Hagar to a profound understanding of the consequences of her actions and ultimately allows her to find closure with Marvin as she reflects on the intricate tapestry of her life.
Last Updated: November 22, 2024 at 18:37
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Track the full timeline of The Stone Angel with every major event arranged chronologically. Perfect for decoding non-linear storytelling, flashbacks, or parallel narratives with a clear scene-by-scene breakdown.
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