The Tale

The film introduces Jennifer 'Jenny' Fox, a documentary filmmaker in her late forties, portrayed by Laura Dern. She is deeply invested in documenting the experiences of women and girls in third-world countries who have faced sexual violence and harassment.

While in Africa for her documentary, Jenny attends a women’s rights protest. Despite warnings of potential violence, she chooses to participate, emphasizing her commitment to the cause and the narratives of the women she aims to highlight.

Jenny’s aging mother, Nettie, reaches out after discovering an old essay Jenny wrote in the 1970s. The essay outlines a troubling relationship from her youth, triggering a wave of emotional memories as Jenny brushes away her mother's concerns.

As Jenny reflects on her past, she experiences nostalgic flashbacks to her childhood characterized by conflict in her family. These memories evoke feelings of being a shy, overlooked girl, contrasting her current strength and ambitions.

Jenny recalls a pivotal summer spent at an intense horse training camp, influenced by the charismatic Mrs. G. and coach Bill Allens. This summer becomes a cornerstone of her memories, intertwining joy with unsettling undertones.

Years later, Jenny reconnects with Franny, a former camp attendee who has since become an independent woman running her own horse farm. Their meeting brings back long-buried memories, shedding light on their past experiences.

As Jenny attempts to ride again, her memories of horse camp surface, filled with awkwardness and nostalgia. A lunch with Mrs. G. and Bill reveals deeper insights into their complex relationships and shared histories.

During lunch, Jenny learns of Bill and Mrs. G.'s romantic involvement, raising troubling realizations about her own experiences. As she reflects, she begins to understand the manipulative grooming that blurred lines between affection and abuse.

In the present, Jenny’s boyfriend Martin uncovers letters from Bill that compel her to address the uncomfortable truths of her past. This revelation forces Jenny to confront her experiences, challenging her reluctance to see herself as a victim.

In a painful confrontation, Jenny visits Mrs. G., who attempts to divert attention from their shared history. This significant moment illustrates Jenny's struggle as she seeks truth about her childhood trauma and its ramifications.

The climax occurs at an awards ceremony for the elderly Bill, where Jenny publicly confronts him. This cathartic moment unveils the dysfunction and deep rooted issues from her youth, allowing her to reclaim her narrative.

Following the confrontation, Jenny faces her younger self in a poignant realization that mirrors her evolution from a victim to an advocate. This moment emphasizes the importance of recognizing one's past to heal and empower.

The film concludes with Jenny embracing the strength found in confronting her past. Her journey reflects a resilient pursuit of healing, advocating for herself and others who have endured similar experiences.