The Weight of Water

In the late 19th century, Smuttynose Island becomes the scene of a gruesome double murder carried out by Norwegian immigrant sisters, Karen and Anethe Christensen. The only survivor of this horrific incident is Maren Hontvedt, another immigrant who witnesses the tragic events unfold.

Following the murders, Louis Wagner is arrested for the crime and faces a trial. Despite the evidence being scant, he is convicted and ultimately faces execution at the gallows for his alleged role in the killings.

In the present day, journalist Jean Janes decides to investigate the cold case of the Smuttynose Island murders. She is accompanied by her husband, Thomas, a poet, and his brother Rich, who owns a boat, along with Rich's partner, Adaline.

During their expedition, Jean discovers a treasure trove of writings by Maren Hontvedt. These documents vividly describe her ordeal and the traumatic events leading up to the murders, giving Jean a deeper understanding of the past.

As Jean delves deeper into Maren's story, she grapples with feelings of insecurity, particularly due to Adaline's flirtatious behavior with her husband, Thomas. These emotions complicate her investigation as she seeks to balance personal issues with her journalistic pursuit.

Maren's journey towards settling on Smuttynose Island is marred by her lack of romantic connection with her husband. This isolation leads her to share a pivotal bond with her brother and her sister-in-law, Anethe, creating a complex emotional dynamic.

Initially, Maren views Anethe as a rival for attention and affection from her brother. However, their relationship transforms, evolving into an unexpected romantic desire that binds them as the tragic night approaches.

On the fateful night when both husbands are away, Maren and Anethe grow closer, enjoying moments of intimacy interrupted by their stern sister, Karen. This tension ultimately culminates in a moment of rage, leading to the tragic deaths of both Karen and Anethe at Maren's hands.

In the aftermath of the murders, Maren struggles with guilt and seeks to confess her actions before Wagner's execution. Despite her intentions to reveal the truth, her testimony is dismissed by the courts, preventing her from unburdening herself.

Despite Maren's attempt to confess her role in the murders, Louis Wagner faces execution without the full story being told. The court's refusal to hear the truth leaves the tragic events surrounding the murders shrouded in mystery.