The Winslow Boy

The Winslow Boy

Year: 1999

Runtime: 104 min

Language: English

Director: David Mamet

DramaRomance

When 14-year-old Ronnie Winslow is accused of stealing, his father, Arthur, a former barrister, takes on the case to prove his son’s innocence. Despite facing significant financial hardship and social stigma, Arthur refuses to let Ronnie be wrongly convicted. The legal battle becomes a public sensation, impacting the family's reputation and straining their relationships as they fight for justice and truth.

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Timeline – The Winslow Boy (1999)

Trace every key event in The Winslow Boy (1999) 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

Ronnie's Accusation

Ronnie Winslow, a cadet at the Royal Naval College, is unjustly accused of stealing a five-shilling postal order. This shocking event sets in motion a series of legal battles for his family.

Royal Naval College
2

Internal Investigation

An internal investigation is conducted without the knowledge of Ronnie's family, which leads to a verdict of guilty against him. This process is rushed, lacking proper representation for Ronnie.

3

Ronnie's Expulsion

As a result of the investigation's verdict, Ronnie is expelled from the Royal Naval College. This euphemistic withdrawal drastically alters the course of his future.

Royal Naval College
4

The Winslow Family's Resolve

Determined to clear Ronnie's name, Arthur Winslow teams up with his suffragette daughter Catherine and their solicitor Desmond Curry. Together, they begin their fight against the unjust decision.

5

Engaging Sir Robert Morton

The Winslow family enlists the help of Sir Robert Morton, a preeminent barrister known for his political acumen. Initially reluctant, he soon becomes committed to proving Ronnie's innocence after questioning him.

6

Public Support Grows

As the family's efforts escalate, public opinion begins to sway in favor of Ronnie. The changing sentiments put pressure on the government, which is reluctant to challenge the original decision.

7

Trial Proceedings

The trial commences as Sir Robert and Desmond Curry work tirelessly to dismantle the prosecution’s case. Their strategic arguments aim to challenge the unjust accusations leveled against Ronnie.

House of Commons
8

A Turn of Fate

Despite initial resistance from the government, the mounting public support and effective legal defense lead to a significant shift in the trial's dynamics. The authorities start to reconsider their stance.

9

Charges Dropped

Following a compelling defense, the Admiralty retracts all charges against Ronnie Winslow. This moment restores his reputation but comes at a high personal cost to the Winslow family.

10

Family Strain

Though Ronnie’s name is cleared, the legal battle places a heavy toll on the Winslow family's health and finances. Arthur’s health deteriorates, and the family's financial future becomes uncertain.

11

Catherine's Engagement Ends

Catherine's engagement to John Watherstone falls apart due to the pressures arising from her family's legal struggles. This personal crisis adds to the emotional turmoil the family experiences.

12

Financial Burdens

The costs associated with the trial deplete the family's resources, jeopardizing funds needed for Ronnie's brother Dickie's education at Oxford. This threatens Dickie's future ambitions.

13

Sir Robert's Sacrifice

In a show of unwavering commitment, Sir Robert Morton declines an appointment as Lord Chief Justice to continue supporting the Winslow family. This highlights his dedication to justice.

14

A New Understanding

At the play's conclusion, a budding romantic tension develops between Catherine and Sir Robert. Both characters reflect on their misconceptions about each other, hinting at a possible future together.

Last Updated: November 16, 2024 at 14:38

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Characters, Settings & Themes in The Winslow Boy

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