Causeway Synopsis & Review: Plot Summary

🎯 Quick Overview

😅 Plot Summary – Badly Explained

Jennifer Lawrence learns that cleaning swimming pools in New Orleans is surprisingly therapeutic, especially when you have Brian Tyree Henry around to talk about your feelings, or not, whatever.

🍿 Causeway: Detailed Plot Synopsis

Lynsey’s Return Home

Lynsey, a US soldier, returns home to New Orleans after suffering a traumatic brain injury in Afghanistan. She undergoes physical therapy and struggles with everyday tasks as she tries to recover. Her goal is to redeploy, viewing the military as her escape.

Friendship with James

Lynsey meets James, a local mechanic, when her truck breaks down. They form an unexpected friendship, bonding over shared traumas and feelings of isolation. James becomes a source of support as Lynsey navigates her physical and emotional recovery.

Family Struggles and Redeployment

Lynsey’s relationship with her mother is strained, contributing to her desire to return to active duty. She faces resistance from her neurologist regarding her redeployment waiver. Her interactions with her brother reveal deeper emotional wounds.

⚠️ Spoilers and Ending Explained

🎬 Cast & Characters

• Lynsey (Jennifer Lawrence): A US soldier struggling with a traumatic brain injury sustained in Afghanistan, returns home to New Orleans and forms an unexpected bond.
• James (Brian Tyree Henry): A sweet-natured local mechanic and broken soul, offering companionship to Lynsey as they bond over shared traumas.
• Gloria (Linda Emond): Lynsey’s mother, with whom she has a difficult and disconnected relationship.
• Jim (Danny Wolohan): Lynsey’s brother who faces personal struggles.
• Dr. Lucas (Stephen McKinley Henderson): The neurologist assessing Lynsey’s readiness to return to active duty.

💬 Memorable Quotes

• Lynsey: “I just wanna get back.” – Lynsey expresses her strong desire to redeploy and return to active duty.
• James: “You don’t even like it here.” – James points out Lynsey’s dissatisfaction with her hometown, questioning her desire to stay.
• Lynsey: “I’m trying to make a friend.” – Lynsey acknowledges her attempt to connect with James, signaling a turning point in her emotional journey.

💰Box Office

• Budget: $15 million
• Domestic Gross: $95,163
• Worldwide Gross: $348,097

💥 Causeway Reviews

Personal Review

I found Causeway to be a deeply moving film that stayed with me long after the credits rolled. The performances by Jennifer Lawrence and Brian Tyree Henry were incredibly raw and authentic. The scene where Lynsey finally confronts her brother in jail was particularly powerful, highlighting the complexities of family and trauma. I was drawn into the slow, deliberate pace of the story and appreciated the film’s focus on the quiet moments of healing and connection.

• Who would enjoy:
  • “Fans of character-driven dramas”
  • “Viewers interested in stories about PTSD and recovery”
  • “Those who appreciate subtle and nuanced performances”
  • “Audiences seeking films with strong emotional themes”
• Content warnings ⚠:
  • “Depiction of PTSD and trauma”
  • “Brief female nudity”
  • “Substance use”
  • “Some strong language”

Professional Reviews

• IndieWire: “Causeway is a remarkably gentle film. Jennifer Lawrence delivers a powerfully understated performance as a soldier grappling with trauma, while Brian Tyree Henry provides a necessary counterpoint of warmth and understanding.
• The Hollywood Reporter: “While somewhat subdued, Causeway benefits from the strong chemistry between Jennifer Lawrence and Brian Tyree Henry, creating a poignant portrait of two individuals finding solace in unexpected companionship. The movie’s quietness is its strength.
• Variety: “Causeway is a showcase for Jennifer Lawrence’s dramatic talents, allowing her to explore the quiet struggles of a soldier returning home. Brian Tyree Henry is equally compelling, and the film’s strength lies in its intimate portrayal of human connection.

Audience Reactions

The raw and authentic performances from Jennifer Lawrence and Brian Tyree Henry resonated deeply with viewers.: Many praised the film for its realistic portrayal of PTSD and the struggles of returning veterans.

Viewers appreciated the film’s focus on character development and the unexpected friendship between Lynsey and James.: The film’s quiet, understated approach to storytelling was refreshing for many, despite the sometimes slow pace.

Overall Consensus: Causeway is a character-driven drama praised for its strong performances and realistic portrayal of trauma, though some found its slow pace and lack of a traditional plot to be drawbacks.

Awards

🛠️ Behind the Scenes

• “The film was shot in the summer of 2019, but didn’t premiere until 2022.”
• “Causeway is director Lila Neugebauer’s feature film debut, known primarily for her work in theatre.”

🖥️ How to Watch Causeway?

Causeway is available to stream on Apple TV+. Check your local listings for rental or purchase options on platforms such as Prime Video, Google Play, and Apple TV.

🎥 Similar Movies

If you enjoyed Causeway, you might like these similar films:

• Manchester by the Sea (2016): Both films explore grief, trauma, and the slow process of healing in a quiet, character-driven manner.
• The Hurt Locker (2008): Deals with the psychological impact of war on soldiers, though with a greater focus on the action of combat.
• Winter’s Bone (2010): A gritty, independent drama featuring Jennifer Lawrence in a compelling, naturalistic performance in a rural setting.
• To Leslie (2022): Similar in depicting the struggles of individuals grappling with personal demons and societal challenges in a small-town setting.

🛒 Causeway Related Products

• Causeway Movie Poster: High-quality print of the official movie poster. Perfect for fans of Jennifer Lawrence and Brian Tyree Henry to display their appreciation for the film’s poignant storytelling and stellar performances.
• Brain Injury Rehabilitation: A Guide: A comprehensive guide to understanding and navigating the challenges of brain injury rehabilitation. Provides valuable insights and practical advice for individuals and families affected by TBI.
• Dog Tag Pendant Necklace – U.S. Army Inspired: Show your support for veterans with this stainless steel U.S. Army-inspired dog tag pendant necklace. A subtle and meaningful way to honor the service and sacrifice of those who have served.
• A24 Blu-ray Collection: Build a collection of A24 films for those that appreciate their movies. Purchase a film from them, and receive them in Blu-ray format for convenient viewing.

🎧 Soundtrack

Causeway features a captivating soundtrack that enhances the movie’s atmosphere and emotional impact. Here are some notable tracks:

• “Come September” – performed by Kavika
• “Causeway (Original Motion Picture Soundtrack)” – performed by Alex Somers

You can find the complete soundtrack on Amazon Music and Apple Music.

🤨 FAQ

🔥 Bonus Content

Jennifer Lawrence is ditching her “Cool Girl” act & running with Causeway

Ever wondered what Jennifer Lawrence really thinks about her past roles? This video dives into how ‘Causeway’ represents a shift in her career. Honestly, it’s refreshing to see her take on such a raw and honest role!

Jennifer Lawrence on ‘Causeway’ Being Her Production Company’s First Film | TIFF 2022

Want to know why Jennifer Lawrence chose ‘Causeway’ as her production company’s first film? This interview at TIFF gives you the inside scoop. It’s fascinating to hear her passion for the project, and it really makes you appreciate the film even more.

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