Waking the Dead

The film begins with Fielding Pierce watching a news report about the tragic death of Sarah Williams. The report reveals that Sarah, an activist from Chicago, was killed in a suspected car bombing, igniting deep grief in Fielding and foreshadowing the emotional turmoil to come.

Fielding Pierce returns home after serving in the Coast Guard, reuniting with his brother who works as a newspaper editor. Their lunch serves as a catalyst for Fielding's burgeoning political ambitions, where he shares his outspoken beliefs and piques Sarah's interest.

During the lunch, a connection forms between Fielding and Sarah as they engage in spirited discussions. Despite their differences in political ideology and personal motivations, they embark on a series of dates that blossom into a passionate romance filled with desire and curiosity.

After a few dates, Sarah inquires about Fielding's political aspirations, prompting him to express his desire to become president. Sarah's poignant remark about ambition challenges Fielding to reflect on his values and the emotional implications of his political goals.

Fielding grapples with the reality of potential deployment to Vietnam, leading to a confrontation with Sarah. She challenges his values, asserting that his involvement in the war would contradict his love for the very people she supports, highlighting the strain on their relationship.

Fielding begins his political career, influenced by the current governor's guidance after the scandal surrounding Jerry Carmichael. As Fielding navigates the political landscape, he experiences internal conflict, feeling pressure to conform to the political machine's demands.

In a later timeline, Fielding finds himself in a relationship with Isaac's daughter, but his thoughts constantly drift back to Sarah. Conversations with his sister reveal that memories of Sarah haunt him, making it difficult for him to move on in both love and politics.

Fielding and Sarah move to Chicago, where they begin living together as he pursues his law degree. While Sarah dedicates herself to missionary work, Fielding grows increasingly focused on his political ambitions, leading to friction in their relationship.

During one of Fielding's events, Sarah's frustration boils over, leading to an explosive confrontation. She cries out in frustration, revealing the emotional complexity of their relationship and the strains that come with his political aspirations.

Fielding's jealousy flares when he suspects Sarah is involved with Father Steven due to her long hours at work. This jealousy drives a wedge between them, clouding Fielding's judgment and amplifying their relationship struggles.

As Fielding embarks on his campaign trail, he becomes increasingly overwhelmed by memories of Sarah. He chases shadows of her in hopes of finding comfort, leading to desperation and further emotional decline as he realizes he cannot escape his past.

Sarah commits herself to activism, aiding political refugees in Chile, which puts more distance between her and Fielding. Their differing paths and the political tensions surrounding Fielding's aspirations lead to a painful emotional divide between them.

An uncomfortable dinner unfolds when Fielding announces his political aspirations to a group of refugees. Their hostility and skepticism towards American politics leave Fielding feeling isolated, further complicating his relationship with Sarah.

Following the escalating distance in their relationship, Sarah embarks on a fateful trip to Milwaukee. This journey sets the stage for the heart-wrenching conclusion of their intertwined fates, culminating in a profound emotional climax.

As the narratives converge, Fielding is left to confront the haunting memories of Sarah that pervade his life. The emotional fallout from their relationship creates a lasting impact on Fielding’s personal and political journey.