Margot at the Wedding 2007

Margot, a self-absorbed writer bearing the marks of borderline personality disorder, makes her way to her sister Pauline’s idyllic Long Island home, bringing along their 11-year-old son, Claude. This trip coincides with Pauline’s upcoming marriage to Malcolm, a lackluster musician who fails to leave a positive impression on Margot. As the weekend progresses, Margot’s disapproval of Pauline’s choices intensifies, particularly regarding her unexpected pregnancy, which has remained a secret from both Malcolm and their pre-teen daughter Ingrid.

A palpable tension exists between the sisters, each nursing deep-rooted resentments. Margot is seething over Pauline’s decision to marry Malcolm, while Pauline is furious about Margot’s inclination to write thinly veiled narratives about their lives—stories she blames for the collapse of her first marriage. This familial friction spills over into their exchanges with Claude and Malcolm, escalating the emotional stakes.

The situation escalates dramatically on two occasions. The first occurs during an interview at a local bookstore where Dick Koosman’s probing questions leave Margot reeling. The second incident is even more explosive: Pauline uncovers that Malcolm has been unfaithful with Maisy, his teenage daughter. This shocking revelation triggers a series of events that culminate in a violent clash between Malcolm and Maisy’s father.

As sisterly animosity peaks, Margot and Pauline find themselves in a fierce argument that erupts with the release of years of pent-up emotions. Following their confrontation, they decide to leave with their children, effectively abandoning Malcolm. However, even as they drive off, the relief is short-lived when they experience a panic-inducing moment as the car’s brakes fail, sending them careening off the road.

Pauline’s reaction to this crisis is remarkably telling; she responds in a highly unconventional manner by defecating in her skirt and disposing of her soiled underwear. The next day, in a twist of fate, Pauline reaches out to Malcolm, contemplating ending their engagement, but ultimately decides to reconcile instead. Meanwhile, Margot undergoes her own transformation, choosing to stay with her sister while sending Claude away on a bus headed for Vermont. As the bus fades into the distance, leaving behind her handbag, she sits beside Claude, finally discovering a semblance of peace amidst the surrounding chaos.