Marriage Story 2019
Directed by
Noah Baumbach
Made by
Netflix
Plot Summary
Discover the intricate plot of Marriage Story (2019). 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.
Charlie Barber, portrayed by Adam Driver, is a prominent theater director in the vibrant world of New York City. His theater company is currently staging a production featuring his wife, Nicole Barber, played by Scarlett Johansson, who once enjoyed a career as a teen film actress. As the couple navigates their turbulent marriage, they engage with a mediator who suggests they express what they appreciate about each other in writing. However, Nicole hesitates and ultimately they abandon counseling.
When an exciting opportunity arises for Nicole to star in a television pilot in Los Angeles, she decides to make a temporary move, taking their young son, Henry, played by Azhy Robertson, along to stay with her mother, Julie Hagerty. Meanwhile, Charlie opts to remain in New York, focused on transitioning the play to Broadway. Though they initially agree to a friendly separation without legal representation, Nicole ultimately hires family lawyer Laura Dern under the guidance of her new producer. She confides in Nora about the deep-seated issues in her marriage, detailing how she felt increasingly overlooked and expressing her suspicions of Charlie’s infidelity with a stage manager.
During a family visit to Los Angeles, things escalate when Nicole serves Charlie with divorce papers through her sister, Merritt Wever. Faced with the reality of his situation, Charlie consults Ray Liotta, a formidable lawyer who encourages him to take a more aggressive approach, but Charlie chooses to leave without legal representation. Soon after, Laura Dern urges him to secure a lawyer quickly to protect his rights as a father. He eventually enlists the help of Alan Alda, a kind-hearted attorney who promotes a peaceful resolution.
Despite Charlie’s assertions that Nicole desires an amicable divorce, Nicole frequently adopts a more hostile stance, seemingly following Nora’s aggressive strategies. Bert advises Charlie to maximize his time with Henry, while Nicole attempts to minimize their interactions. A confrontation sees Nicole accusing Charlie of cheating, revealing the painful dynamics of their faltering relationship.
Following Bert’s guidance, Charlie rents an apartment in Los Angeles to bolster his custody chances. Yet, he resists advice to abandon his New York residency, leading to increased tension. As the legal battles escalate, each party’s lawyer scrutinizes the other’s character, with Nora bringing up Charlie’s past indiscretions and Jay maligning Nicole’s reputation.
During a shared moment away from the lawyers, a seemingly amicable discussion descends into a fierce argument. Nicole accuses Charlie of blatant selfishness, leading to a moment of emotional upheaval when Charlie, overcome with frustration, damages the apartment and then breaks down in remorse. They find solace in each other as they work towards a more equitable divorce agreement.
Fast forward a year: Charlie’s play has flourished on Broadway while Nicole has moved on, embracing a new relationship and earning an Emmy nomination. Charlie informs Nicole of his upcoming move to Los Angeles for a year-long residency at UCLA to be closer to Henry. In an emotional moment, Henry urges Charlie to share aloud the list of things Nicole appreciates about him, which she wrote during their counseling sessions. As Charlie reads the heartfelt notes, Nicole watches from a distance, moved by the moment.
At a Halloween gathering, Nicole’s kindness shines through as she offers to let Charlie take Henry home, despite having custody that night. As Charlie exits, cherishing a sleeping Henry, Nicole stops him to tie his shoe, a brief yet poignant gesture that signifies their evolving relationship. They part ways with gratitude, embracing the complexities of their intertwining lives.
Timeline
Track the key events of Marriage Story (2019) with a comprehensive timeline. Perfect for understanding the sequence of major plot points, this feature offers clarity on how the story unfolds.
Charlie's Theater Production
Charlie Barber, a renowned theater director in New York City, is currently staging a production featuring his wife, Nicole, who once starred as a teen actress. The dynamics of their marriage are complicated by their professional collaboration as they attempt to navigate their emotional turmoil.
Mediation Session
In an attempt to resolve their differences, Charlie and Nicole engage with a mediator, who suggests that they share written appreciations of each other. However, Nicole is hesitant, and ultimately, they abandon the counseling process, highlighting the growing divide in their relationship.
Nicole's Move to Los Angeles
Nicole receives an exciting opportunity to star in a TV pilot, prompting her to temporarily relocate to Los Angeles with their son, Henry. This decision marks a significant turning point in their marriage, as Charlie chooses to stay in New York to focus on his play.
Nicole Hires a Lawyer
As tensions mount, Nicole hires a family lawyer, Laura Dern, after confiding in her producer about the strain in her marriage. She expresses her feelings of being overlooked and shares her suspicions regarding Charlie's fidelity, showcasing her emotional struggles.
Divorce Papers Served
During a family visit to Los Angeles, the situation escalates when Nicole serves Charlie with divorce papers via her sister. This abrupt action forces Charlie to confront the reality of their separation, marking a pivotal moment in their relationship.
Consultation with a Lawyer
Feeling overwhelmed, Charlie consults with a tough lawyer, Ray Liotta, who pushes him towards a more aggressive legal strategy. However, Charlie opts to continue without legal representation, demonstrating his reluctance to engage in a combative divorce.
Charlie's Legal Strategy
Charlie's legal situation takes a turn when Laura Dern urges him to find legal representation to safeguard his rights as a father. Eventually, he seeks help from Alan Alda, a more compassionate attorney who advocates for a peaceful resolution.
Increased Conflict
As the divorce proceedings continue, Nicole adopts an increasingly aggressive approach, driven by her lawyer's strategies. The contrasting philosophies of their lawyers exacerbate the personal conflict, leading to harsh accusations and emotional distress.
Apartment Rental for Custody
Following advice from his lawyer, Charlie rents an apartment in Los Angeles to strengthen his custody case. This decision, however, leads to increased tension between him and Nicole as he struggles with his identity split between two cities.
Emotional Confrontation
During a moment away from their lawyers, Charlie and Nicole's seemingly friendly conversation morphs into a fierce argument. The emotional release culminates in Charlie damaging the apartment in frustration, followed by a moment of remorse that reveals the depth of their feelings.
Progress Towards Resolution
Through shared moments and communication, Charlie and Nicole begin to work towards a more equitable divorce agreement. Their journey is punctuated by emotional confrontations, but they find solace in each other as they address their past grievances.
Charlie's Broadway Success
Fast forward a year, Charlie's play has achieved great success on Broadway, showcasing his dedication to his craft. Meanwhile, Nicole has evolved personally and professionally, revealing how their time apart has impacted both of their lives.
Emotional Connection with Henry
As Charlie prepares for a year-long residency at UCLA to be closer to Henry, an emotional moment unfolds. Henry urges Charlie to share aloud the list of things Nicole appreciates about him, emphasizing the bonds that still exist between them.
Halloween Gathering
During a Halloween gathering, Nicole displays kindness by allowing Charlie to take Henry home despite the custody arrangements. This act symbolizes their evolving relationship and the mutual respect that has developed post-separation.
A Poignant Goodbye
As Charlie cherishes a sleeping Henry while leaving the gathering, Nicole stops him to tie Henry's shoe. This small yet meaningful gesture marks a poignant moment of connection, illustrating the complexities and lingering affection in their relationship.
Characters
Meet the characters that bring Marriage Story (2019) to life. Dive into detailed profiles of the cast and their roles, exploring their motivations, relationships, and arcs within the story.
Charlie Barber (Adam Driver)
Charlie is a devoted theater director who grapples with the complexities of his marriage and impending divorce. He is passionate about his work but feels increasingly disconnected from his wife. Throughout the film, Charlie's journey is marked by emotional highs and lows as he navigates his role as a father amidst the turbulence of separation.
Nicole Barber (Scarlett Johansson)
Nicole is a former film actress turned theater star, portraying a character navigating her identity and aspirations post-marriage. Her journey reflects a quest for independence and self-fulfillment, often clashing with her obligations as a mother. Nicole's character exhibits resilience as she strives to establish her own identity outside of her marriage.
Henry Barber (Azhy Robertson)
Henry is the young son of Charlie and Nicole, serving as a poignant reminder of the love shared between his parents despite their conflicts. He is caught in the middle of the divorce, navigating his own feelings as he witnesses the struggles of his parents. His innocence highlights the emotional stakes of the family's situation.
Laura (Laura Dern)
Laura is Nicole's attorney, bringing a fierce and pragmatic approach to the custody battle. She serves as a guiding force for Nicole, encouraging her to stand firm and pursue her interests. Laura's assertive personality contrasts with the more delicate dynamics of the Barber family's situation.
Setting
Uncover the settings of Marriage Story (2019), 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 of the film take place in contemporary times, highlighting modern relationship dynamics and legal challenges associated with divorce. The story progresses over a year, marking significant changes in the characters' lives and careers.
Location
New York City, Los Angeles
New York City is known for its vibrant theater scene, including Broadway, where Charlie Barber's play is staged. The city's bustling energy contrasts with the laid-back lifestyle of Los Angeles, where Nicole relocates to pursue a new opportunity in television. Each city reflects the characters' personal and professional journeys.
Themes
Explore the core themes of Marriage Story (2019). 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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Divorce
The movie explores the complexities and emotional turmoil of divorce, shedding light on the difficulties couples face when ending a long-term relationship. Both Charlie and Nicole struggle with feelings of loss, betrayal, and the challenge of co-parenting amidst legal battles.
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Art and Identity
Art is a central theme, reflecting both characters' careers in the theater and how their identities are shaped by their professional pursuits. Nicole's transition from actress to TV star mirrors her personal evolution, while Charlie grapples with his artistic ambition and familial obligations.
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Parenthood
The responsibilities of parenthood permeate the narrative, showcasing the struggle to balance personal desires with the well-being of their son, Henry. The portrayal of their parenting challenges raises questions about love, loyalty, and the impact of divorce on children.
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