Foster 2019
Directed by
Mark Jonathan Harris
Made by
Home Box Office (HBO)
Plot Summary
In Britain, during the challenging Recession that impacted much of the world in the late 2000s, a couple named Zooey and Alec face the heart-wrenching reality of their inability to conceive a child. Contemplating adoption, they seek to expand their family. Zooey, who runs a charming children’s bookstore alongside her mother Diane, supports her husband Alec, who manages the toy company that his late father initiated fifty years prior.
Meanwhile, a remarkably intelligent 7-year-old boy named Eli resides at Mrs. Lange’s children’s home. Far beyond the typical maturity for his age, Eli dresses like a successful businessman but still enjoys the joys of childhood. Unbeknownst to others, he starts communicating directly to the audience, revealing his thoughts. Fortunately, Zooey and Alec can see him during their visit to the home, where they aspire to foster a child.
Their journey takes a sudden turn when, despite being informed that their application will take some time, Eli appears at their door with all the necessary paperwork signed by Mrs. Lange. Concerned about the situation, Zooey and Alec return to the home, only to find Mrs. Lange being whisked away in an ambulance, unconscious. The sole remaining employee at the home lacks familiarity with the process but insists there is nothing wrong with the documents.
Soon, Eli becomes an integral part of Zooey and Alec’s life, showcasing an array of astonishing talents, including his exceptional cooking skills. However, Eli finds traditional schooling unfit for his intellect, quickly deciding against attending after just one day. Instead, he lends a hand to Alec at the struggling toy company.
The company’s future hangs in the balance as loyal employee Tom has been a steadfast part of the team for 45 years, but rising anxieties over wages loom large among the staff. Compounding their troubles, Alec cannot secure a new loan and has kept the mortgaged status of their home a secret from Zooey.
One day in the park, Eli and Zooey encounter a mysterious figure named Mr. Potts, who seems to have knowledge of the couple’s past, specifically the events of 2007. He needs financial assistance, and Zooey, empathetic as ever, decides to offer her help. In a twist of fate, Alec also encounters Mr. Potts at the cemetery, where he ensures the gravestones remain presentable.
As the couple navigates the complexities of their new family dynamics, the question remains: will they experience a Christmas miracle?
Timeline
The Recession Impact
In Britain during the late 2000s, many couples faced hardships due to the economic recession. Zooey and Alec are among those struggling, dealing with the emotional turmoil of infertility.
Contemplating Adoption
Zooey and Alec decide to explore adoption as a means to expand their family. This decision becomes a pivotal point in their relationship and life together.
Zooey's Bookstore
Zooey operates a charming children's bookstore with her mother, Diane. The bookstore serves as a sanctuary for her during this challenging period, offering comfort and hope.
Eli's Life at the Home
Seven-year-old Eli lives at Mrs. Lange's children’s home, displaying intelligence and maturity beyond his years. He dresses like a businessman but still engages in the innocent pleasures of childhood.
Eli's Unique Communication
Eli begins to communicate directly with the audience, sharing his inner thoughts and feelings. This unique ability sets him apart from the other children at the home.
Eli's Arrival at Their Home
Despite being told the adoption process would take time, Eli unexpectedly arrives at Zooey and Alec's doorstep with all the necessary paperwork. This surprising turn of events leaves the couple bewildered yet intrigued.
Mrs. Lange's Emergency
Concerned after Eli's arrival, Zooey and Alec rush back to the children's home only to find Mrs. Lange being taken away in an ambulance. This alarming turn of events raises questions about the stability of the children's home.
Eli Joins Their Family
Eli quickly becomes an essential part of Zooey and Alec's lives, demonstrating remarkable talents, especially in cooking. Despite his talents, Eli struggles to fit into the traditional schooling system.
Alec's Toy Company Struggles
Alec's toy company, established by his late father, faces financial challenges amid the looming recession. Tom, a loyal employee for 45 years, worries about potential layoffs and the future of the company.
Zooey's Secret Loan Search
Alec struggles to secure a loan to save the company and has kept their home’s mortgage status a secret from Zooey. The pressure mounts as financial strains become evident.
Meeting Mr. Potts
In a park, Zooey and Eli meet a mysterious man named Mr. Potts, who seems to know intimate details of their past. Zooey feels compelled to help him despite not fully understanding his situation.
Alec's Cemetery Encounter
Alec unexpectedly meets Mr. Potts at a cemetery, where he ensures that gravestones are well-maintained. This encounter deepens the mystery surrounding Mr. Potts and his connection to their lives.
Navigating New Family Dynamics
Zooey and Alec grapple with the challenges and joys of integrating Eli into their family. The situation brings both joyous moments and unforeseen complications as they strive for normalcy.
The Christmas Miracle
As Christmas approaches, the couple wonders if they will experience a miracle amidst their struggles. Their hopes rise as they face emotional and financial challenges together, with Eli at their side.
Characters
Zooey
Zooey is a compassionate and supportive partner, running a children's bookstore while grappling with her desire to start a family. She displays a nurturing spirit, particularly towards Eli, and embodies empathy in her relationships.
Alec
Alec is a dedicated husband who manages the toy company launched by his late father. He faces immense pressure due to financial struggles and his family's legacy, leading to internal conflict regarding his responsibilities as a provider and husband.
Eli
Eli is an extraordinary 7-year-old boy with remarkable intelligence and maturity beyond his years. His talents include exceptional cooking, and he quickly forms a bond with Zooey and Alec, bringing joy and unexpected challenges to their lives.
Mr. Potts
Mr. Potts is a mysterious figure who seems to know too much about Zooey and Alec's past. His encounters with both Zooey and Alec stir curiosity and serve as catalysts for the couple's journey, ultimately influencing their decisions.
Setting
Time period
Late 2000s
Set against the backdrop of the late 2000s Recession, the time period reflects economic hardships that deeply affect the characters' lives. This era is marked by challenges in family dynamics and personal aspirations, especially evident in Zooey and Alec's quest for adoption.
Location
Britain, Mrs. Lange's children’s home, the park, cemetery
The story unfolds in Britain, capturing the essence of a couple's struggle during the Recession. Mrs. Lange's children’s home serves as a pivotal location where Zooey and Alec contemplate adopting a child. Additionally, the park and cemetery played significant roles in their interactions with Eli and the mysterious figure, Mr. Potts.
Themes
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Family
The theme of family is central to the story, exploring the challenges of conception and the journey toward fostering a child. Zooey and Alec's desire to build a family amidst adversity highlights the emotional depth and complexities of familial ties.
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Struggle
The struggles faced by Zooey and Alec due to the Recession and their efforts to adopt depict resilience and perseverance. Their experiences are layered with tension, showcasing the emotional toll of not just economic hardship, but also the longing for connection.
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Miracles
The concept of miracles emerges as a theme, particularly surrounding Eli's unexpected entrance into Zooey and Alec's lives. As they navigate their challenges, the notion of a ‘Christmas miracle’ symbolizes hope and the unforeseen blessings that can arise from difficult situations.
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