5 Flights Up 2015
Directed by
Richard Loncraine
Made by
Focus World
Plot Summary
Discover the intricate plot of 5 Flights Up (2015). From unexpected twists to emotional highs and lows, this detailed summary breaks down every moment to give you a deeper understanding of the film’s story.
Alex, a talented painter, and his wife Ruth, a devoted retired educator, find themselves at a significant juncture in their lives as they ponder leaving their cherished five-story walk-up in New York City, where they have created countless memories over the decades. The absence of an elevator in their apartment has increasingly become a source of frustration, prompting them to consider a fresh start.
As they navigate their options, their ambitious niece Lilly, a savvy real estate agent, presents an enticing offer: their apartment could potentially sell for over $1 million. However, as they immerse themselves in the competitive world of high-stakes real estate, they encounter three intricate narratives, each with its own set of challenges and emotional depths.
One of these threads centers on their beloved dog, Dorothy, who has suffered from a ruptured disc, leaving her mobility compromised. Faced with the tough choice of costly surgery versus accepting their pet’s new limitations, Alex and Ruth confront the stark realities of aging and the significance of cherishing every precious moment together.
Simultaneously, a gripping news story unfolds near their home, revolving around the alarming reports of a suspected terrorist driving a disabled tanker truck. As the authorities close in, Alex is taken aback to learn that the supposed criminal is merely a young, innocent person caught in a dire situation.
Amidst their quest for a new home, the couple is particularly drawn to one apartment that hints at a future filled with hope and opportunity. Unfortunately, when the owners are unwilling to negotiate on the price, Alex and Ruth are compelled to reassess their values and come to terms with the daunting realities of the real estate market.
Throughout their journey, Dorothy’s condition serves as a poignant reminder of life’s fragility and its inherent beauty, even when faced with adversity. Ultimately, in a heartfelt decision, the Carvers choose not to sell their beloved apartment. They emerge with a deeper appreciation for the simple joys and mundane moments that define a life well-lived.
The film concludes on a bittersweet note as Alex and Dorothy navigate the stairs back to their beloved home. Simultaneously, a young couple embarks on their own journey in the very same building where Alex and Ruth began building their life together 40 years ago.
Timeline
Track the key events of 5 Flights Up (2015) with a comprehensive timeline. Perfect for understanding the sequence of major plot points, this feature offers clarity on how the story unfolds.
Alex and Ruth Reflect on Their Life
Alex, a talented painter, and Ruth, a retired educator, find themselves at a crucial point in their lives. They consider leaving their beloved five-story walk-up in New York City, a place filled with memories spanning decades.
Frustration with the Apartment
The couple begins to feel the strain of living in an apartment without an elevator. The absence of modern conveniences becomes increasingly frustrating, pushing them to explore new living arrangements.
Lilly Presents a Tempting Offer
Their ambitious niece, Lilly, a savvy real estate agent, approaches them with a lucrative opportunity. She reveals that their apartment could be sold for over $1 million, an enticing prospect that catches their attention.
Challenges in High-Stakes Real Estate
As Alex and Ruth dive deeper into the world of real estate, they face numerous challenges. The competitive atmosphere reveals unforeseen emotional depths as they navigate their options while considering personal sacrifices.
Dorothy's Health Crisis
The couple confronts a serious issue with their beloved dog, Dorothy, who suffers from a ruptured disc. They are faced with a tough decision between the expensive surgery she needs and accepting her new limitations.
Confronting the Realities of Aging
As they navigate Dorothy's health challenges, Alex and Ruth are reminded of the harsh realities of aging. They reflect on the importance of cherishing their moments together, knowing that life can be fleeting.
Breaking News Incident
A gripping news story catches their attention regarding a suspected terrorist driving a disabled tanker truck nearby. The situation escalates, but Alex learns that the supposed criminal is just an innocent individual in distress.
Searching for New Apartments
The couple embarks on a search for potential new homes, eager for a fresh start. They become particularly excited about one apartment that seems to promise hope and opportunity for their future.
Negotiation Challenges
Despite their enthusiasm, the owners of the desired apartment are unwilling to negotiate. This blatant refusal forces Alex and Ruth to reevaluate their desires and come to grips with the tough real estate market.
Reflection on Life's Fragility
During their journey, Dorothy's condition highlights the fragility of life. Alex and Ruth gain a poignant appreciation for the beauty in life's challenges, cultivating a deeper bond through their shared experiences.
Decision Not to Sell
After much consideration and reflection on their lives together, Alex and Ruth ultimately decide not to sell their cherished apartment. This choice represents a significant turning point in their journey, filled with recognition of life's simple joys.
A Bittersweet Conclusion
The film closes on a bittersweet note as Alex and Dorothy navigate the stairs back to their beloved home. Their journey culminates in a newfound appreciation for their life together, despite the challenges they face.
Young Couple's New Beginning
In a parallel narrative, a young couple embarks on their own journey within the same building where Alex and Ruth built their life. This transition highlights the cycle of life and the continuation of personal stories.
Characters
Meet the characters that bring 5 Flights Up (2015) to life. Dive into detailed profiles of the cast and their roles, exploring their motivations, relationships, and arcs within the story.
Alex
Alex is a talented painter who finds himself at a crossroads as he and his wife contemplate leaving their long-time home. His dedication to his art is mirrored by his deep emotional bond with Ruth and their dog, Dorothy. Alex is depicted as both sensitive and practical, struggling with the realities of aging and change while trying to maintain a hopeful outlook.
Ruth
Ruth is a devoted retired educator whose nurturing character shines throughout the story. She represents stability and wisdom, and her relationship with Alex is rooted in mutual love and respect. Ruth's emotional journey reflects the complexity of facing change while holding onto cherished memories.
Dorothy
Dorothy, the couple’s beloved dog, serves as a poignant symbol of companionship and the passage of time. Her health struggles create an emotional anchor for Alex and Ruth, prompting them to confront difficult choices. Dorothy’s spirit embodies the joy and fragility of life.
Lilly
Lilly is the ambitious niece and a savvy real estate agent who introduces Alex and Ruth to the world of high-stakes property selling. Her enthusiasm and business acumen contrast with her uncle and aunt's emotional ties to their home, showcasing the generational divide in how to approach real estate.
Setting
Uncover the settings of 5 Flights Up (2015), from iconic locations to the time period that shapes its world. See how these elements add depth and context to the movie’s narrative.
Time period
Contemporary
The film is set in contemporary times, reflecting current societal issues such as high real estate prices and the emotional weight of aging. This period examines the complexities of modern life and the resilience required to adapt to changing circumstances.
Location
New York City
New York City is a vibrant metropolis known for its iconic skyline, diverse culture, and relentless pace of life. The setting of the film encapsulates the hustle and bustle of urban living, particularly in the intimate confines of a five-story walk-up apartment. It serves as a backdrop for both the dreams and challenges faced by the main characters.
Themes
Explore the core themes of 5 Flights Up (2015). From its commentary on social issues to its emotional undertones, delve into the deeper messages woven into the film’s story.
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Love & Aging
The theme of love and aging permeates the movie as Alex and Ruth grapple with the changes brought on by time. They face difficult decisions regarding their home and their beloved pet, Dorothy, highlighting the fragility and beauty of life. Their journey emphasizes the importance of cherishing memories and relationships amidst life’s challenges.
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Home & Belonging
Home and the sense of belonging are central themes as the couple contemplates leaving their cherished apartment. Their exploration of potential new homes brings to light issues of real estate, personal attachment, and the concept of what truly makes a space feel like home. Ultimately, they realize that their heart lies within the walls that have witnessed their life's journey.
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Media & Perception
The film also addresses the theme of media and perception through the storyline involving a suspected terrorist. This narrative thread highlights the impact of sensational news on public perception and the complexity of human situations that can often be misrepresented. It serves as a reminder of the importance of understanding and empathy in uncertain times.
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