Winter Passing

Reese Holdin, a young woman plagued by depression, leads a hedonistic lifestyle filled with self-destructive behaviors. Her life as a bartender and aspiring actress in New York City seemingly masks her emotional turmoil and addiction to cocaine.

Reese receives a life-changing opportunity when a publishing agent approaches her with an offer of $100,000 for a collection of her father’s letters to her deceased mother. Despite the allure of this financial gain, she struggles with her deep-seated feelings of despair.

In search of solace, Reese travels to her childhood home in Michigan, aiming to escape the chaos of her life in New York. This decision reflects her desperate need for refuge amid her ongoing existential crisis.

Upon returning home, Reese unexpectedly befriends Corbit, a struggling Christian musician, and Shelly, a former student of her father's. Their distinct challenges remind Reese of her own conflicts, sparking new dynamics in her relationships.

Initially, Reese feels resentment toward Shelly, suspecting her of vying for her father's love. This jealousy highlights Reese's fragile emotional state and her difficulty with familial relationships.

As Reese learns more about Shelly's loyalty, her resentment transforms into empathy. Shelly's support during Reese's near-death experience reveals significant facets of human connection that Reese begins to appreciate.

Discovery of her parents' old letters prompts Reese to explore her family's tragic history. The poignant letters shed light on her mother's untimely death and her father's ongoing grief, offering a glimpse into their emotional struggles.

Reese's father, Don, remains consumed by the pain of losing his wife, choosing to sleep in their shared bed. This act becomes a testament to his unresolved grief and the impact it has on his relationship with Reese.

Through a series of heartfelt discussions with Don, Reese begins to confront their shared losses. These pivotal moments help foster healing, allowing them both to navigate their grief together.

Reese experiences a transformative moment when she decides to bury her father's unfinished manuscript, *Golf*, along with the box of letters. This act symbolizes her growing understanding of life and death's cyclical nature.

As Reese prepares to leave for New York, her journey of self-rediscovery culminates in a newfound sense of resolution. Her decision to confront her inner demons instills a sense of hope as she embarks on a path towards healing.

With the weight of her family's history embraced, Reese heads back to New York, prepared to tackle the challenges of her life anew. This next chapter signifies a fresh beginning, armed with the lessons learned from her past.