The Water Diviner

Joshua Connor, an Australian farmer, is devastated by the presumed loss of his three sons—Arthur, Edward, and Henry—who fought in World War I. This loss weighs heavily on his family and culminates in the tragic decline of his wife, Eliza, leading to her demise.

Driven by grief and the need for closure, Joshua embarks on a journey to Turkey to search for his sons’ bodies. His resolve is fueled by a desire to give them a proper burial alongside their mother.

Upon arriving in Istanbul, Joshua finds solace in the hospitality of Ayshe, a war-widowed hotel owner. This moment marks a significant turn in his journey, as he begins to forge unexpected connections amidst his grief.

Joshua learns he needs to navigate a perilous boat journey to reach Gallipoli, where ANZAC soldiers are interred. This treacherous voyage signifies the extent of his commitment to uncover his sons' fates.

Upon his arrival in Gallipoli, Joshua discovers a massive civilian exclusion from the burial sites. Major Hasan steps in to help, providing Joshua with hope and assistance in the search for his sons' remains.

Hasan reveals a lead about Arthur possibly being captured by Turkish forces, reigniting Joshua’s hope. This news compels Joshua to return to Istanbul to pursue his son’s whereabouts further.

In Istanbul, Joshua confronts Ayshe, who is tangled in her own societal pressures. Their interactions reveal the personal struggles wrought by the aftermath of war, complicating their relationship.

As tensions escalate, a group led by Omer attacks Joshua. However, Sergeant Jemal intervenes to protect him, which marks a pivotal moment of solidarity amidst chaos and violence.

Joshua finds an unlikely ally in Hasan as they prepare for the impending Greek invasion. Their alliance transforms Joshua's personal quest into a collective struggle for survival against a common enemy.

On a train, a cricket bat leads to an impromptu lesson for Turkish soldiers. This light moment is abruptly ended by a surprise Greek attack that results in significant losses for their group.

In a nearby town, Joshua finally meets Arthur, who is haunted by the war's trauma. Arthur reveals that Edward is alive but suffering, adding layers of grief and guilt to their reunion.

As they discuss the harsh realities of war, Arthur admits to a heart-wrenching choice he had to make regarding Edward. This revelation deepens the emotional weight of their experiences and the toll of conflict.

With Greek forces closing in, Joshua and Arthur make a dangerous escape through the mountains. Their journey strengthens their bond, and Arthur embraces the importance of family and resilience.

Their harrowing experience culminates in a return to Ayshe’s hotel, where they find temporary refuge. This new chapter offers both men a glimpse of peace in the wake of their tragedies.

The film closes with Joshua sharing a quiet moment with Ayshe over coffee, symbolizing the growing connection between them. This intimate scene suggests that, like the war, their intertwined stories are far from over.