Three Christs

Three Christs

Year: 2020

Runtime: 109 min

Language: English

Director: Jon Avnet

Drama

A psychiatrist embarks on a groundbreaking and unconventional experiment when he encounters three men who all believe they are Jesus Christ. Dr. Alan Stone attempts to treat them, exploring the boundaries of empathy and the nature of belief. As he delves deeper into their shared delusion, he begins a transformative journey of his own. Based on a true story, this drama examines the complexities of the human mind and the profound impact of connection.

Warning: spoilers below!

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Timeline – Three Christs (2020)

Trace every key event in Three Christs (2020) 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

Dr. Stone's Bold Move

In 1954, Dr. Alan Stone made a significant decision to leave his studies at New York University. This marked the beginning of his journey into the Ypsilanti State Mental Asylum, where he aimed to explore the treatment of schizophrenic patients.

1954 Ypsilanti State Mental Asylum
2

Critique of the Mental Health System

Upon entering the asylum, Dr. Stone quickly established himself as a critic of the harsh mental health practices of the time. The prevalent methods, such as insulin shock and electroconvulsive therapy, were viewed unfavorably by Stone, who believed in the power of compassionate treatment over physical punishments.

Ypsilanti State Mental Asylum
3

Meeting the 'Jesus' Patients

During his tenure, Stone met two captivating patients, both claiming to be Jesus Christ. Joseph Cassell, an intelligent man, and Clyde Benson, a troubled soul, became the focal point of his therapeutic exploration, presenting unique challenges that would shape his approach.

Ypsilanti State Mental Asylum
4

Pioneering Group Talk Therapy

Inspired by his interactions, Dr. Stone introduced innovative group talk therapy to the asylum. He included Leon Gabor, another patient who believed in his divinity, which allowed Stone to further explore the psychological dynamics between these three individuals.

Ypsilanti State Mental Asylum
5

Uncovering Traumas

Through his method, Stone uncovered the deeply embedded traumas of his patients. Gabor's issues stemmed from an oppressive upbringing and military assaults, Benson's grief from his wife’s death and abortion, and Cassell's struggles with violent impulses heightened by his past treatments.

Ypsilanti State Mental Asylum
6

Gaining Recognition

Dr. Stone began to earn accolades for his revolutionary treatment methods, even gracing the cover of a prominent medical journal. This recognition, however, was met with concern from his peers, particularly Dr. Orbus, whose credentials were closely linked to the older, less compassionate methods.

Medical Journal
7

Interference from Dr. Orbus

Feeling threatened by Stone's success, Dr. Orbus attempted to interfere with Cassell's therapy sessions, much to Stone's frustration. Orbus's manipulative tactics became evident when Cassell realized the head psychiatrist's true intentions fell short of helping him.

Asylum
8

Cassell's Despair

After experiencing Dr. Orbus’s betrayal, Cassell fell into despair, resulting in volatile outbursts. Orbus responded by reinstating aggressive electroshock therapies that Stone had been fighting against, further complicating matters.

Ypsilanti State Mental Asylum
9

Confrontation Escalates

Stone attempted to protect Cassell from the escalating emotional turmoil but faced resistance. This conflict culminated in a physical confrontation with another physician, leading to injuries on both sides and further deterioration of the asylum's atmosphere.

Ypsilanti State Mental Asylum
10

Dr. Orbus's Power Play

Ultimately, Dr. Orbus ousted Dr. Stone from the asylum. This betrayal left Stone feeling defeated, yet he remained steadfast in his belief in compassionate care despite the harsh realities imposed by Orbus.

Ypsilanti State Mental Asylum
11

Cassell's Tragic Realization

Under Orbus’s manipulation, Cassell began viewing Stone as an adversary rather than an ally. In a heartbreaking moment of clarity, he saw through the psychiatrist's intentions and plunged into despair, culminating in a tragic leap from the chapel bell tower.

Chapel Bell Tower
12

The Aftermath of Cassell's Death

Cassell’s devastating death prompted an official hearing where Dr. Stone testified against Dr. Orbus. Stone interpreted Cassell's final actions as a profound commentary on struggle and sacrifice, ultimately shifting the focus onto the systemic failures of mental healthcare.

Hearing
13

Stone's Dismissal

Following the hearing, Dr. Stone was dismissed from his position but was granted permission to continue his research in New York, along with some of his surviving patients. This move signified a bittersweet victory for Stone, as he left the oppressive environment behind.

New York
14

Orbus's Fall from Grace

While Dr. Stone moved on, Dr. Orbus’s reign of terror was curtailed, leading to his eventual retirement. The systemic issues of the asylum remained, but Orbus's credibility began to dwindle significantly.

Ypsilanti State Mental Asylum
15

A Scene of Redemption

In the film's closing moments, Dr. Stone is seen sitting with Cassell and Benson, engaged in a peaceful game of cards. This scene serves as a powerful reminder of hope and the potential for healing amidst loss and suffering.

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Last Updated: November 19, 2024 at 20:23

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Characters, Settings & Themes in Three Christs

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