Domestic Disturbance 2001
Directed by
Harold Becker
Made by
Paramount Pictures
Plot Summary
Discover the intricate plot of Domestic Disturbance (2001). 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.
In Southport, Maryland, we meet Susan Morrison (Teri Polo), who has recently divorced her husband Frank (John Travolta), a boat builder struggling to keep his business afloat. With the demand for boats dwindling, Frank is forced to sell his creations for next to nothing, jeopardizing the longevity of his livelihood.
Meanwhile, Susan has found love again with Rick Barnes ([Vince Vaughn]), a younger, affluent man. Their twelve-year-old son, Danny ([Matt O’Leary]), is visibly distressed about his mother’s impending marriage. In an attempt to help Danny and Rick bond, Susan asks Frank to take them sailing together.
Rick, who recently hit it big investing in the stock of a pharmaceutical company that developed a groundbreaking blood pressure medication, has now purchased a new resort and desires Frank to craft boats for it. As the family dynamics shift, Danny struggles with acceptance, resorting to petty theft and reckless behavior as he seeks attention and attempts to reunite his parents.
Frank, meanwhile, is dating Diane ([Susan Floyd]), who believes he is still clinging to his past with Susan. The friction escalates when Frank learns that Rick has questionable connections, particularly when a figure named Ray (played by Steve Buscemi) unexpectedly turns up at their wedding, claiming to be an ex-business associate of Rick, worsening tensions all around.
Rick and Susan soon tie the knot, but a shocking twist occurs—Rick’s scandalous past resurfaces when Danny witnesses him committing murder. As Danny grapples with the horrifying reality of his mother’s new husband being a killer, he takes the drastic step of informing his father and the police, putting everyone in danger.
Despite his initial doubts, Frank conducts an investigation that reveals Rick’s true identity as Jack Parnell, a man with a nefarious history. The stakes rise when Jack’s attempts to eliminate Frank culminate in a series of tense confrontations. When Jack takes Danny hostage with the intention of fleeing, Frank is forced to confront him in a fierce struggle.
In a climactic moment, Danny plays a crucial role in Jack’s downfall, which leads to a fraught yet crucial showdown. As the dust settles, Susan realizes the truth behind Jack’s manipulations, and although she suffers a miscarriage during the chaos, she is ultimately united with Frank and Danny.
In the aftermath, the police issue an apology, acknowledging the belated trust in Danny’s claims. The reunion of the three emphasizes the resilience of family, even in the face of harrowing adversity.
Timeline
Track the key events of Domestic Disturbance (2001) with a comprehensive timeline. Perfect for understanding the sequence of major plot points, this feature offers clarity on how the story unfolds.
Susan's Divorce
In Southport, Maryland, Susan Morrison finds herself adjusting to life after her divorce from Frank, a struggling boat builder. The split has left both her and her son, Danny, grappling with their new reality as they learn to move forward.
Frank's Struggles
Frank is facing significant challenges as he tries to keep his boat-building business afloat amid dwindling demand. Forced to sell his creations at a loss, he worries about the future of his livelihood and the well-being of his family.
A New Relationship
Meanwhile, Susan embarks on a new romantic relationship with Rick Barnes, a younger and affluent man. Their romance seems promising as they begin to discuss blending their families, although Danny struggles with this transition.
Danny's Distress
Danny, Susan's twelve-year-old son, becomes increasingly troubled by the idea of his mother marrying Rick. This emotional turmoil leads him to act out, demonstrating his distress through petty theft and seeking attention from his parents.
Sailing Together
In an effort to bridge the gap between Rick and Danny, Susan convinces Frank to take them sailing. This outing is intended as a bonding experience, but underlying tensions between the adults begin to surface.
Rick's Business Ventures
Rick shares his recent success in the stock market, particularly his investment in a pharmaceutical company. He aims to enhance his resort by commissioning Frank to create new boats, adding complexity to their interconnected lives.
Frank's New Relationship
While navigating his own troubles, Frank begins dating Diane, who feels that he is still emotionally attached to Susan. Their relationship faces challenges as the ghosts of the past continue to linger over his life.
Wedding Bells
Susan and Rick eventually tie the knot, marking a new chapter in their relationship. However, the celebration turns ominous as Rick's past threatens to unravel their future together.
The Reveal
Danny witnesses Rick committing a shocking crime: murder. This horrifying reality prompts him to confide in his father, Frank, leading to an investigation that reveals Rick's true identity and dangerous history.
Father's Investigation
Frank, initially skeptical, takes it upon himself to investigate Rick's background and discovers alarming truths about him. The revelation that Rick is actually Jack Parnell, a man with a notorious past, raises the stakes for everyone involved.
Confrontation
As Jack's threats escalate, tensions culminate in a dramatic confrontation between him and Frank. With Danny caught in the middle, Frank must summon all his strength to protect his son and reclaim his family.
Danny's Role
In a critical moment during the standoff, Danny takes a brave stance that aids in Jack's downfall. His bravery turns the tide of the conflict, showcasing the lengths a child will go to for their family.
Aftermath and Loss
As the chaos subsides, Susan suffers a miscarriage, adding another layer of grief to the already tumultuous events. Despite the losses, the family finds a way to reunite, highlighting their resilience in the face of adversity.
Police Acknowledgment
The police, recognizing the truth in Danny's claims, issue a formal apology for their earlier disbelief. This acknowledgment reinforces the bond between Susan, Frank, and Danny as they navigate their new circumstances.
Family Reunion
In the aftermath, Susan, Frank, and Danny come together to reinforce their family unit. Their reunion symbolizes hope and resilience, demonstrating the strength of love and togetherness in overcoming life’s challenges.
Characters
Meet the characters that bring Domestic Disturbance (2001) to life. Dive into detailed profiles of the cast and their roles, exploring their motivations, relationships, and arcs within the story.
Frank Morrison (John Travolta)
Frank is a struggling boat builder caught in the turmoil of divorce and parenthood. His efforts to rebuild his life while protecting his son reveal his resilience and dedication, even amidst his own insecurities and setbacks. Frank's protective nature drives the narrative as he confronts the dangers posed by Rick.
Susan Morrison (Teri Polo)
Susan is a loving mother trying to navigate her complex emotions after divorce while seeking happiness in a new relationship. Caught between her past with Frank and her present with Rick, she represents the struggle many face in remaking their lives, embodying the challenges of balancing love and family.
Danny Morrison (Matt O'Leary)
Danny is a twelve-year-old boy grappling with his parents' divorce and his mother's new marriage. His troubled behavior manifests from his emotional turmoil and serves as a catalyst for the unfolding events. Danny's growth throughout the film illustrates the profound impact of adult conflicts on children.
Rick Barnes (Vince Vaughn)
Rick is the new, affluent partner of Susan, whose seemingly charming exterior hides a dark secret. As Danny uncovers the truth about Rick's past, his character serves to illustrate the complexities of trust and the hidden dangers that can emerge, ultimately questioning his romantic allure.
Jack Parnell (Steve Buscemi)
Jack is Rick Barnes's true identity, a man with a perilous history that disrupts the delicate family balance. His menacing presence escalates the tension and danger, forcing Frank to protect his son at all costs, representing the ultimate threat to domestic peace.
Setting
Uncover the settings of Domestic Disturbance (2001), 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
The events unfold in contemporary times, reflecting the modern challenges of family and relationships. The story deals with issues like divorce, child dynamics, and the impact of a tumultuous marriage in today's society.
Location
Southport, Maryland
Southport, Maryland, is a picturesque coastal town known for its serene waters and charming boat-building community. With its scenic views and tranquil atmosphere, it's an ideal backdrop for stories of personal struggle and family dynamics, particularly in the maritime context.
Themes
Explore the core themes of Domestic Disturbance (2001). 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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Family
The theme of family is central to the narrative, exploring the complexities of familial relationships amidst divorce and the attempt to reforge bonds. Danny's struggle for acceptance highlights the impacts of adult decisions on children and emphasizes the need for unity in adversity.
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Justice
Justice plays a pivotal role as Danny becomes an unexpected whistleblower against Rick's criminal actions. The quest for truth leads to dangerous encounters, underscoring the moral dilemmas faced by each character, particularly when confronting issues of loyalty and betrayal.
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Loss
Loss reverberates throughout the story, from Susan's strained relationships to the tragic miscarriage she endures. Each character grapples with the emotional voids created by their choices, reflecting the profound personal costs of their circumstances.
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