What Maisie Knew

Maisie, a perceptive six-year-old, navigates the chaotic lives of her parents, Susanna and Beale, in a bustling New York apartment. As they engage in regular bickering, Maisie often feels invisible and emotionally unsupported.

The turbulent dynamic between Susanna and Beale intensifies when Susanna changes the apartment locks, effectively shutting Beale out. This act signifies the increasing strain in their relationship and the impact it has on Maisie.

Susanna and Beale announce their separation, which leads to the establishment of a complicated joint custody arrangement for Maisie. This situation deeply affects Maisie, who is caught in the middle of their disputes.

In a turn of events, Margo moves into Beale's apartment and they quickly marry. This decision surprises Maisie, who is still trying to adjust to the changes in her family dynamics.

In response to Margo's marriage to Beale, Susanna hastily marries Lincoln, a bartender she barely knows. This decision complicates matters further, especially as Maisie starts forming a bond with Lincoln.

As the adults become increasingly self-absorbed, Maisie finds herself being shuffled between her parents' homes. During this tumultuous period, Margo and Lincoln take on primary caregiving roles for her.

Displeased with his relationship with Margo, Beale makes the decision to move to the United Kingdom. This move further complicates the family situation, leaving Maisie feeling even more abandoned.

With Beale and Susanna mostly absent, a new bond forms between Margo, Lincoln, and Maisie. They develop a nurturing environment, allowing Maisie to thrive despite the chaos surrounding her.

While in New York, Margo, Lincoln, and Maisie encounter Susanna, leading to a volatile confrontation. Susanna accuses Lincoln and Margo of 'stealing' her daughter, showcasing her desperation and jealousy.

During the confrontation, Lincoln makes a decisive statement that their relationship with Susanna is over. He firmly tells her that she no longer deserves Maisie's affection, highlighting the tensions in their relationships.

After Susanna leaves the city, Maisie returns to Margo's care. This return provides a sense of stability for Maisie, who has been caught in the ongoing drama between her parents.

Margo invites Lincoln to her cousin's beach house, creating a joyful outing for the trio. This trip becomes a pivotal moment in their evolving relationship and offers Maisie a sense of normalcy.

Tensions mount when Susanna arrives unannounced at the beach house, attempting to reclaim her daughter. This surprise visit escalates conflicts, forcing the characters to confront their feelings and roles.

In a surprising twist, Maisie decides to stay with Margo and Lincoln, despite Susanna's attempts to take her back. This choice underscores her growing discomfort with her mother and her desire for a stable home.

With Maisie's decision to stay behind, Susanna is faced with the reality of the situation. This moment prompts her to confront her own shortcomings as a mother and accept that it is best for Maisie to remain with Margo and Lincoln.