Dr T and the Women 2000
Directed by
Robert Altman
Made by
Artisan Entertainment
Plot Summary
Discover the intricate plot of Dr T and the Women (2000). 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.
Dr. Sullivan ‘Sully’ Travis, affectionately called “Dr. T,” is a prosperous gynecologist serving some of the most affluent women in Texas. However, his seemingly perfect life unravels when his wife, Kate, suffers from a rare condition known as the “Hestia Complex.” This stigmatization syndrome manifests dramatically when Kate disrobes in a shopping mall fountain while preparing for their daughter’s wedding registry at Tiffany’s. Subsequently, she is committed to a state mental hospital. During a visit, Dr. T is met with a chilling rebuff when Kate perceives his affection as improper, showing him that her former self may never return.
Their daughter, Dee Dee, is caught in her own web of secrets. A Southern Methodist University student and Dallas Cowboys Cheerleaders alternate, she is set to marry, all while secretly in a romantic relationship with Marilyn, her former college friend and maid of honor. Meanwhile, the other daughter, Connie, a conspiracy theorist, uncovers the truth about Dee Dee and Marilyn’s affair and conveys her shocking discovery to their father.
One of the most awkward moments for Dr. T arises during a medical examination when Marilyn, who he comes to realize is Dee Dee’s lover, confesses that her stress stemming from her role as maid of honor affects her well-being. This revelation catches him off guard, leading to an embarrassed request for the nurse to take over.
At work, Dr. T is oblivious to the feelings of his devoted secretary, Carolyn, who harbors romantic affection for him. In a comical attempt to show her interest, she locks his office door and offers a shoulder massage while shedding her clothes, leaving him flustered and unaware of her intentions as he inadvertently discovers her disrobing.
Dr. T’s chaotic life is further complicated by his sister-in-law Peggy, a recently divorced woman who moves into his home with her three daughters, unwittingly stirring up drama wherever she goes.
A chance encounter at the golf club introduces Bree, a golf pro who, after a sprinkler mishap, joins Dr. T for a round of golf. Their chemistry leads to dinner at her place, where things heat up progressing quickly from casual conversation to intimacy as they find solace in each other during tumultuous times.
As Dee Dee’s wedding approaches, stormy weather foreshadows turmoil. In an impulsive act of defiance amid swirling winds, Dee Dee chooses to kiss Marilyn instead of her groom, prompting guests to scatter for shelter. Inspired by this act of love, Dr. T seeks Bree and proposes they marry and escape together. However, Bree wisely questions his plan, hinting that such a fantasy could lead down the same troubled path that ensnared Kate. As Dr. T’s desperation grows, he confronts the reality of his emotions and the storm clouds that surround him, leading to a dramatic turn when he drives into the heart of a tornado.
In the aftermath of the storm, dawn reveals his car stranded in a barren landscape. He’s miraculously discovered by a group of locals. A little girl, noticing his doctor’s badge, calls out to him, igniting a flicker of hope. At the sight of a woman in labor, Dr. T springs into action, washing his hands and casting aside his wedding ring as he embraces his calling, delivering the baby and joyfully proclaiming, “It’s a boy!” Thus, in the most unexpected of circumstances, Dr. T discovers a renewed purpose amidst the chaos of his unraveling life.
Timeline
Track the key events of Dr T and the Women (2000) with a comprehensive timeline. Perfect for understanding the sequence of major plot points, this feature offers clarity on how the story unfolds.
Dr. T's Life and Career
Dr. Sullivan 'Sully' Travis, known as Dr. T, is a successful gynecologist serving affluent women in Texas. He appears to lead a perfect life until unexpected challenges arise, testing both his personal and professional worlds.
Kate's Breakdown
Dr. T's life takes a drastic turn when his wife, Kate, suffers from the rare 'Hestia Complex.' This condition culminates in a public incident where she disrobes in a shopping mall fountain, which leads to her commitment to a mental hospital.
Visit to the Mental Hospital
During a visit to the mental hospital, Dr. T is heartbroken when Kate fails to recognize his affection and pushes him away. This encounter reveals that her mental state has drastically changed, leaving Dr. T to grapple with the loss of his wife's former self.
Dee Dee's Secret Relationship
Dee Dee, their daughter, is navigating her own complications as she prepares for her upcoming wedding. Unbeknownst to her family, she is in a secret relationship with Marilyn, her former college friend, creating layers of hidden truth.
Connie's Discovery
Connie, Dr. T's other daughter, uncovers Dee Dee's secret affair with Marilyn. She is shocked by this revelation and feels compelled to share it with their father, adding to the family tension.
Awkward Medical Examination
An embarrassing moment arises for Dr. T during a medical examination when Marilyn discloses how her role as Dee Dee's maid of honor is stressing her out. This unexpected confession leaves Dr. T flustered as he realizes Marilyn's connection to his family.
Carolyn's Affection
Dr. T's obliviousness extends to his devoted secretary Carolyn, who is desperately trying to express her romantic feelings. In a misguided attempt to impress him, she locks the office door and starts to strip, leading to sheer confusion for Dr. T.
Sister-in-law Moves In
Dr. T's already chaotic life is compounded by the arrival of his sister-in-law Peggy, who moves in with her three daughters. Peggy's presence brings unexpected drama, further complicating the family dynamics.
Encounter with Bree
A chance meeting with Bree at the golf club leads to an evening of chemistry and intimacy after a mishap involving a sprinkler. Both find solace in each other amidst the chaos surrounding their lives.
Dee Dee's Defiant Kiss
As Dee Dee's wedding day approaches, she unexpectedly kisses Marilyn in a moment of defiance, causing chaos among the guests. This impulsive act not only symbolizes her true feelings but also disturbed the serene atmosphere of the celebration.
Dr. T's Proposal to Bree
Inspired by Dee Dee's bold choice, Dr. T impulsively proposes to Bree, suggesting they escape and marry. However, Bree wisely questions this plan, cautious of the turbulent emotions that echo his past.
Driving into a Storm
As Dr. T contemplates his life choices and escalating desperation, he drives into a raging storm. This reckless decision symbolizes his internal turmoil, presenting a literal and figurative clash with chaos.
Stranded but Resilient
After the storm, Dr. T finds himself stranded in a bleak landscape, confronting the aftermath of his choices. Despite the bleakness, a little girl recognizes him, reminding him of his role and purpose.
Delivering New Life
In a moment of clarity and purpose, Dr. T assists in delivering a baby after encountering a woman in labor. Casting aside his wedding ring signifies his commitment to his calling, as he joyfully announces the arrival of a new life amid his personal chaos.
A Renewed Sense of Purpose
Through the experience of delivering the baby, Dr. T discovers a renewed sense of purpose and direction. This transformative moment allows him to focus on what truly matters amidst the chaos surrounding his life.
Characters
Meet the characters that bring Dr T and the Women (2000) to life. Dive into detailed profiles of the cast and their roles, exploring their motivations, relationships, and arcs within the story.
Dr. Sullivan 'Sully' Travis (Richard Gere)
Dr. T is a successful gynecologist whose seemingly perfect life disintegrates amidst family crises and unexpected revelations. His character embodies compassion and confusion as he grapples with his wife's mental health challenges and his daughters' complex relationships. Despite his chaotic surroundings, he ultimately seeks purpose and redemption.
Kate Travis
Kate experiences the debilitating effects of the 'Hestia Complex,' which drastically alters her personality and threatens her family structure. Once a vibrant and supportive partner, her condition leaves her detached and unrecognizable, creating emotional rifts with Dr. T and their daughters.
Dee Dee
Dee Dee is caught between societal expectations and her hidden romantic life. As a Southern Methodist University student and cheerleader, she embodies the pressures of youth while navigating her complicated feelings for Marilyn. Her character represents the struggle for authenticity amidst familial and social scrutiny.
Carolyn
Carolyn is a devoted secretary with unrequited feelings for Dr. T, showcasing the often-unnoticed dynamics of workplace affection. Her bold attempts to express her interest add a layer of comedy and awkwardness to the narrative, reflecting the challenges of vulnerability and emotional connection.
Setting
Uncover the settings of Dr T and the Women (2000), 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 film unfolds in contemporary times, highlighting the social dynamics and personal dilemmas of modern relationships. Themes such as love, secrecy, and mental health are prevalent, reflecting current societal issues through the lens of Dr. T's experiences.
Location
Texas, shopping mall, golf club
Texas serves as the backdrop for Dr. T's prosperous career and the complexities of his personal life. The chaotic shopping mall, where a pivotal scene unfolds, symbolizes the contrast between public perception and private turmoil. The golf club represents a space for unexpected connections and moments of respite away from the bustling chaos.
Themes
Explore the core themes of Dr T and the Women (2000). 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 and Betrayal
The theme of love and betrayal is woven throughout the relationships in the film. Dr. T navigates the complexities of affection with his wife, daughters, and colleagues, often leading to moments of hilarity and heartbreak. The juxtaposition of romantic hopes and hidden truths drives the narrative, revealing how love can both unite and fracture families.
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Chaos and Renewal
Chaos surrounds Dr. T, from family drama to environmental threats, symbolizing the unpredictable nature of life. The storm serves as a catalyst for transformation, leading to moments of clarity and self-discovery. Ultimately, the chaos leads Dr. T to find renewed purpose, emphasizing the possibility of rebirth amidst turmoil.
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Secrets and Revelations
The film explores the impact of secrets on relationships and personal well-being. Dee Dee's hidden romance with Marilyn creates tension, while Dr. T's oblivion to Carolyn's feelings illustrates the often unseen dynamics of love and affection. As secrets unravel, characters confront truths that reshape their lives.
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