The Family 2013

Action

Drama

Thriller

Comedy

Crime

Box Office

$78M

Budget

$30M

Runtime

111 min

Language

French

Directed by

Luc Besson

Made by

Relativity Media

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The Family Plot Summary

Read the complete plot summary and ending explained for The Family (2013). From turning points to emotional moments, uncover what really happened and why it matters.

Presently, a woman named Indu finds herself sorrowfully seated amidst a ceremony, her demeanor drawing attention and concern from those around her. When pressed about her peculiar behavior, she unfolds a tale from her past that holds the key to her distress.

Looking back, we meet Govardhan, a devoted family man whose life revolves around unwavering dedication to his loved ones. As a selfless individual, he toils in a job to ensure his family’s well-being, but he isn’t without his struggles. He faces challenges, especially from his brother, whose troubling dependence on alcohol complicates their relationship. Fate intervenes when Indu arrives, directly moving into the very space Govardhan occupies. This unexpected turn draws their families together, leading to a profound bond and burgeoning romance.

However, the path of love isn’t without obstacles. After a significant event serves as a catalyst for change, Govardhan finds himself reconciling with his brother, thanks to the revelation from their mother. She discloses to Indu that the friction between the brothers stemmed from Govardhan’s shame towards his sibling. Yet, when Govardhan discovers Indu’s thesis documenting his family dynamics and her perceptions of him, his emotions boil over, resulting in an intense confrontation where he harshly slaps her, swearing to retaliate for the supposed injustices highlighted in her paper.

In a bold move, he seeks out a job opportunity from a man named Jagapathi Babu, requesting to join the company with a sizeable advance. Driven by the need to undermine Indu’s portrayal of him, he uses this money to counter her thesis directly. However, a twist of fate awaits him as he learns that Indu is not just any ordinary student but the daughter of the company’s head. Although displeased, he accepts his circumstances yet demands that he be granted everything that Indu earns within the professional realm.

As the story unravels, Govardhan faces unforeseen challenges, such as when he discovers that his flight tickets have not been covered. In a moment of desperation, he turns to Indu, who generously provides financial aid for his family. Just when they seem to be rekindling their affection, Indu overhears Govardhan making derogatory remarks about her to another woman, declaring that she might not be the right choice for him. This heart-wrenching incident shatters her trust, prompting Indu to withdraw emotionally, ultimately deciding to leave Govardhan after revealing that she overheard his hurtful comments.

Fast forward to the present, Govardhan learns from Indu’s father about her genuine motivations behind her thesis—a revelation that sparks a pivotal change in his heart. Fueled by urgency, he races against time to prevent her from proceeding with a wedding, which is held for an individual whose injury was indirectly caused by Govardhan. The grandfather of the injured person, a prominent politician, has stated that this union would restore joy to his family. But unbeknownst to Govardhan, Indu is entwined in this very wedding.

In an electrifying climax, Govardhan, alongside his grandmother, confronts and overcomes the politician’s henchmen, demonstrating his unwavering determination to reclaim Indu. Their love rekindles amid adversity, culminating in a joyous marriage that signifies the triumph of love over trials and tribulations.

The Family Timeline

Follow the complete movie timeline of The Family (2013) with every major event in chronological order. Great for understanding complex plots and story progression.

Indu's Ceremony

In the present, Indu sits sadly at a ceremony, her demeanor raising questions among those around her. When asked about her unusual behavior, she chooses to recount a story from her past, setting the stage for a deeper exploration of her emotional journey.

Govardhan's Life

The narrative shifts to Govardhan, a dedicated family man who prioritizes providing for his loved ones. Despite his selflessness, he faces familial strife, particularly with his brother, who struggles with alcoholism and harbors resentment towards him.

Meeting Indu

Govardhan's life takes a turn when he meets Indu, who moves into his neighborhood. They quickly form a bond, having a profound impact on each other's lives, and their friendship gradually blossoms into love.

Family Conflicts

Their relationship faces trials when Govardhan's mother reveals to Indu the root of the tension between Govardhan and his brother. This insight leads to a reconciliation between the brothers, addressing years of animosity fueled by misunderstanding.

The Thesis Incident

The mood shifts when Govardhan discovers Indu's thesis on his family, which leads to a heated confrontation. In a moment of anger, he slaps Indu, vowing to prove her wrong and teach her a lesson.

Seeking Reemployment

Determined to counter Indu's portrayal of him, Govardhan approaches his former employer, Jagapathi Babu, seeking a job with a hefty advance. He plans to use this money to undermine Indu's work and regain control of the narrative about his life.

Indu's True Identity

As Govardhan settles into his new job, it is revealed that Indu is the daughter of a powerful figure within the company. Although he is frustrated by this connection, Govardhan continues his job with a sense of competition, feeling entitled to what Indu earns.

Financial Struggles

Trouble arises when Govardhan realizes that his flight tickets for a work trip were not booked. He reluctantly turns to Indu for help, who provides him with money for his family, reigniting their complicated relationship.

Heartbreak

Just as things start to look up, Indu overhears Govardhan speaking disparagingly about her to another woman. Feeling hurt and betrayed, she chooses to distance herself from him, believing he does not see her worth.

Indu's Departure

After confronting Govardhan about the hurtful words she overheard, Indu decides to leave him. This decision marks a significant turning point, as both characters must confront their feelings and the mistakes that led them there.

Unveiling True Intentions

In the present, Govardhan learns from Indu's father about the true purpose of her thesis. Understanding her intentions pushes him to act, culminating in a determination to stop her from marrying someone else.

The Wedding Event

Govardhan rushes to a wedding, which is held for a person who was injured due to his past actions. Realizing that Indu is present and the gravity of the situation, he prepares to confront the challenges ahead.

Confrontation

At the wedding, Govardhan faces off against the goons sent by the injured person’s powerful grandfather. With the help of his grandmother, he bravely fights to save Indu from a marriage that would tear them apart.

Reuniting with Indu

After overcoming the obstacles put in place by the politician’s goons, Govardhan successfully reaches Indu. This victory signifies a turning point, where love prevails over adversity.

A New Beginning

The story culminates in a heartfelt wedding where Govardhan and Indu finally unite. Their journey, filled with trials and misunderstandings, leads them to a joyous conclusion, symbolizing hope and commitment.

The Family Characters

Explore all characters from The Family (2013). Get detailed profiles with their roles, arcs, and key relationships explained.

Govardhan

Govardhan is depicted as a selfless family man, devoted to providing for his loved ones. His character arc evolves as he navigates love, conflict, and reconciliation, ultimately highlighting his resilience. Through various challenges, he demonstrates both vulnerability and strength, which makes his journey relatable.

👨‍👧‍👦 Family Man ❤️ In Love ⚔️ Struggler

Indu

Indu is portrayed as a strong-willed woman with her own ambitions, who initially seeks to uncover her thesis. Her relationship with Govardhan reflects her depth and emotional complexity. Throughout the film, Indu remains resilient despite facing heartbreak, showcasing her enduring love and commitment.

❤️ Lovestruck 📚 Scholar 💔 Heartbroken

The Family Settings

Learn where and when The Family (2013) takes place. Explore the film’s settings, era, and how they shape the narrative.

Time period

The events of the movie reflect contemporary societal issues, highlighting family values, love, and reconciliation. Though not set in a specific historical period, the themes resonate with modern-day challenges that families encounter.

Location

Govardhan's home, Indu's house, Jagapathi Babu's company

The primary setting revolves around Govardhan's home, where family dynamics and conflict unfold. Indu's residence also plays a significant role, establishing her connection to Govardhan. Meanwhile, Jagapathi Babu's company serves as a backdrop for the professional challenges and revelations faced by Govardhan.

🏡 Home 🏢 Workplace ❤️ Relationship

The Family Themes

Discover the main themes in The Family (2013). Analyze the deeper meanings, emotional layers, and social commentary behind the film.

❤️

Love

The theme of love is central to the narrative, showcasing the deep emotional connection between Govardhan and Indu. Their relationship is tested through misunderstandings and societal pressures, yet their bond ultimately triumphs. The film illustrates how love can conquer adversity and foster reconciliation.

👨‍👩‍👧‍👦

Family

Family is a pivotal theme, depicted through Govardhan's struggles to support his family and navigate conflicts with his brother. The importance of familial bonds is emphasized, revealing how love and understanding can mend rifts. The dynamic within Govardhan's family illustrates the challenges and sacrifices that come with unconditional love.

📚

Ambitions

Ambitions drive the characters' actions throughout the film, especially in Govardhan's quest to prove his worth after Indu's thesis challenges his self-image. It showcases the struggle between personal ambition and relational priorities, ultimately leading to growth and self-discovery for Govardhan.

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The Family Spoiler-Free Summary

Discover the spoiler-free summary of The Family (2013). Get a concise overview without any spoilers.

In the rugged expanse of Quebec’s Gaspé peninsula, a secluded homestead clings to the raw edge of wilderness where the rhythm of life is measured by the seasons and the bounty of the land. The film paints the coastline with sweeping vistas of mist‑shrouded cliffs, dense pine forests, and icy bays that whisper of isolation and self‑reliance. A quiet, almost reverent tone settles over the scenery, inviting the audience to feel the cool air and hear the rustle of leaves as the family moves in harmony with nature, turning foraging and craft into an art form.

At the heart of this remote world are Laurent and Claire, a resilient couple whose partnership is forged through countless shared hardships and quiet triumphs. Their children, curious and resourceful, echo their parents’ ingenuity, each learning the delicate balance between taking only what the land offers and preserving it for the future. The family’s bond is portrayed with a tenderness that feels both intimate and universal, highlighting the unspoken language of gestures, shared meals, and the collective effort required to thrive in such a demanding environment.

Beyond the safety of their self‑sufficient haven, the encroaching presence of the modern world looms as an unseen pressure, hinting at challenges that could test the family’s way of life. The film balances moments of serene beauty with an undercurrent of uncertainty, suggesting that the harmony they have cultivated may soon be disturbed. This subtle tension fuels a contemplative mood, inviting viewers to wonder how a community so deeply rooted in tradition will respond when external forces begin to ripple through their isolated sanctuary.