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Directed by
Isabel Coixet
Made by
Good Machine
Discover the intricate plot of The Secret Life of Words (2006). 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.
The film explores the delicate psyche of a torture survivor named Hanna, portrayed by Sarah Polley, who is deeply impacted by her harrowing experiences during the Croatian war. Trained as a burn unit nurse, she has undertaken survival counseling in Copenhagen, where her traumatic story was documented by Inge, played by Julie Christie. Struggling with symptoms of post-traumatic stress disorder, Hanna displays compulsive behaviors, such as meticulously stacking bars of soap, indicative of her troubled mind. Her hearing impairment—being nearly deaf without a hearing aid—adds another layer to her solitude.
Despite her challenges, Hanna remains a dedicated worker, never taking sick leave or vacations. However, her union steps in, urging her to take some time off. Hanna finds herself in a serene seacoast village, where she unexpectedly overhears an oil company manager discussing the need for a live-in nurse for an injured worker recovering from a fire on an oil platform in the North Sea. Driven by a sense of purpose, she volunteers for the assignment.
Once on the job, she tends to Josef, played by Tim Robbins, who is grappling with temporary blindness and severe burns sustained from battling a rig fire. In a particularly touching scene, as he gently touches the scars on her chest, he gently coaxes Hanna to share her traumatic past, unveiling a poignant moment of connection and vulnerability.
After Josef is transferred to a hospital for further care, Hanna returns to the factory, where the repercussions of her shared experiences linger in the air. As Josef speaks with Inge, he begins to grasp the profound emotional scars left by such brutality, as well as the guilt that often haunts survivors like Hanna.
This poignant narrative unfolds as a beautiful love story that captures the journey of two wounded souls seeking solace and understanding in one another, ultimately leading to unforgettable character development and an uplifting resolution.
Track the key events of The Secret Life of Words (2006) with a comprehensive timeline. Perfect for understanding the sequence of major plot points, this feature offers clarity on how the story unfolds.
Hanna's Trauma
The film begins by exploring Hanna's troubled psyche as a torture survivor from the Croatian war. Her experiences have profoundly affected her mental health, leaving her with deep-seated emotional scars.
Counseling in Copenhagen
Hanna works as a burn unit nurse in Copenhagen, where she also engages in survival counseling. This setting serves as a backdrop for her healing process, but her past continues to haunt her.
Documented by Inge
Her traumatic story is documented by Inge, a caring investigator who understands the depth of Hanna's pain. This documentation signifies an effort to recognize and validate her experiences.
Struggles with PTSD
Hanna grapples with the symptoms of post-traumatic stress disorder, which manifest in her compulsive behaviors, like stacking soap bars meticulously. This illustrates her constant struggle to regain control over her life.
Hearing Impairment
Her nearly deaf condition, requiring a hearing aid, adds another layer of isolation to her already lonely existence. This impairment further complicates her interactions and emotional connections with others.
Pressure from the Union
Despite her dedication to her work, her union insists that she takes some time off to address her mental health. This intervention highlights the concern for her well-being and the struggles faced by survivors.
Seacoast Village
Hanna retreats to a serene seacoast village for her time off. This peaceful environment contrasts sharply with her turbulent inner life, offering a momentary escape from her past.
Volunteering as a Nurse
While in the village, she overhears a conversation about a live-in nurse needed for an injured worker on an oil platform. Motivated by a sense of purpose, she decides to volunteer for the challenging assignment.
Caring for Josef
Hanna begins her new role caring for Josef, a worker recovering from severe burns and temporary blindness after a rig fire. Their relationship evolves as they share their vulnerabilities and pain.
A Touching Connection
In a touching moment, Josef gently touches Hanna's scars, prompting her to reveal her traumatic past. This exchange signifies the beginning of a deep emotional bond based on shared suffering.
Transfer to Hospital
After a period of care, Josef is transferred to a hospital for further treatment. This transition marks a turning point in their relationship, as Hanna reflects on the impact of their connection.
Return to the Factory
Hanna returns to her job at the factory upon Josef's departure. She finds that the emotional weight of her shared experiences with him lingers in her mind, enhancing her understanding of her own trauma.
Josef's Conversation with Inge
Josef has a deep conversation with Inge about the emotional scars left by trauma and survival. He begins to understand the guilt and pain that trouble survivors like Hanna, deepening his empathy.
Journey of Healing
As the story unfolds, it becomes a beautiful love story between two wounded souls. Their shared journey towards understanding and healing emphasizes the transformative power of connection.
An Uplifting Resolution
The film concludes with an uplifting resolution that highlights character development. Through love and shared experiences, both Hanna and Josef find solace and hope amidst their trauma.
Meet the characters that bring The Secret Life of Words (2006) to life. Dive into detailed profiles of the cast and their roles, exploring their motivations, relationships, and arcs within the story.
Hanna
Hanna is a complex character, marked by her traumatic experiences as a torture survivor and skilled burn unit nurse. Struggling with PTSD and hearing impairment, she embodies resilience yet displays vulnerability in her interactions. Her journey of self-discovery and healing, paired with her dedication to her work, paints a poignant picture of survival.
Josef
Josef is an emotionally scarred individual grappling with the physical and psychological aftermath of a catastrophic accident. His character evolves as he connects with Hanna, revealing his own vulnerabilities. Through their shared experiences, he gains insight into the struggles of trauma, contributing to his own healing process.
Inge
Inge serves as a supportive figure in Hanna's life, documenting her traumas while encouraging her healing journey. She symbolizes understanding and compassion, helping navigate the complexities surrounding trauma survivors. Through her interactions, Inge becomes a source of strength for both Hanna and Josef.
Uncover the settings of The Secret Life of Words (2006), 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 reflects contemporary themes of trauma and healing, likely set in a modern context, though specific dates are not mentioned. The post-war setting suggests an exploration of societal challenges faced by veterans and survivors, emphasizing the lasting impact of conflict on personal lives.
Location
Copenhagen, North Sea, seacoast village
The story begins in the bustling city of Copenhagen, known for its rich history and progressive culture. Key moments take place in a serene seacoast village, which contrasts with Hanna's turbulent past, providing a tranquil backdrop for healing. Additionally, the North Sea serves as a reminder of the harsh realities of industrial work and the dangers associated with it.
Explore the core themes of The Secret Life of Words (2006). 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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Trauma
The film delves into the profound effects of trauma, particularly how Hanna's experiences in the Croatian war haunt her psyche. It explores the daily struggles of living with PTSD, showcasing coping mechanisms that underscore her pain. This theme is intricately woven into the narrative, as both Hanna and Josef confront their past scars.
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Connection
At its core, the film is a love story about two individuals trying to connect amidst their shared suffering. Hanna and Josef's relationship develops in a space of vulnerability and understanding, reflecting their mutual need for support. This theme highlights the healing power of empathy and human connection in overcoming personal struggles.
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Healing
Set against the backdrop of serene coastal landscapes, the journey of healing is prominent throughout the film. Both characters embark on a path toward emotional recovery, with their interaction serving as a catalyst for healing. The narrative beautifully illustrates how nature and new relationships provide solace amidst inner turmoil.
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