The Water Diviner

The Water Diviner

Year: 2015

Runtime: 111 min

Language: English

DramaWar

During World War I, Australian farmer Joshua Connor travels to Turkey on a desperate mission to find his three sons who have gone missing in the Gallipoli campaign. His search leads him through the vibrant, chaotic streets of Istanbul, where he encounters a compelling hotelier and her son, and a former adversary who might offer clues to his sons’ whereabouts. Connor’s journey is fraught with peril as he navigates the lingering brutality of war and the complexities of human connection.

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Timeline – The Water Diviner (2015)

Trace every key event in The Water Diviner (2015) with our detailed, chronological timeline. Perfect for unpacking nonlinear stories, spotting hidden connections, and understanding how each scene builds toward the film’s climax. Whether you're revisiting or decoding for the first time, this timeline gives you the full picture.

1

The Loss

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.

1919
2

The Quest Begins

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.

3

Arrival in Istanbul

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.

Istanbul
4

Journey to Gallipoli

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.

Gallipoli
5

The Search in Gallipoli

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.

Gallipoli
6

The Revelation

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.

7

Tensions with Ayshe

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.

Istanbul
8

Attack from Omer's Group

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.

Istanbul
9

Unexpected Allies

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.

10

The Cricket Bat Incident

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.

11

Finding Arthur

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.

Nearby Town
12

The Guilt

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.

13

Escape Through the Mountains

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.

Mountains
14

Return to Ayshe’s Hotel

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.

Ayshe's Hotel
15

A Moment of Connection

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.

Ayshe's Hotel

Last Updated: November 21, 2024 at 10:33

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The Water Diviner Summary

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Characters, Settings & Themes in The Water Diviner

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