August 21, 2025 • 41 mins
Step into the glamorous yet shadowy world of Old Hollywood with Mashair Reads as we dive deep into The Seven Husbands of Evelyn Hugo by Taylor Jenkins Reid.
In this episode, we break down Evelyn’s dazzling career, scandalous relationships, and heartbreaking truths with a storytelling style that’s as captivating as the novel itself.
Whether you’ve read the book or are hearing about it for the first time, expect detailed, cinematic summaries, emotional insights, and thought-provoking discussions that make you feel like you’re right there in Evelyn’s glittering world.
✨ Listen now and experience book discussions like never before — and don’t forget to stream our audiobook episodes and summaries on Spotify, and all major platforms.
📌 Follow Mashair Reads for more in-depth, emotionally rich book talks that make stories come alive.
In this episode, we break down Evelyn’s dazzling career, scandalous relationships, and heartbreaking truths with a storytelling style that’s as captivating as the novel itself.
Whether you’ve read the book or are hearing about it for the first time, expect detailed, cinematic summaries, emotional insights, and thought-provoking discussions that make you feel like you’re right there in Evelyn’s glittering world.
✨ Listen now and experience book discussions like never before — and don’t forget to stream our audiobook episodes and summaries on Spotify, and all major platforms.
📌 Follow Mashair Reads for more in-depth, emotionally rich book talks that make stories come alive.
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Transcript
Episode Transcript
Available transcripts are automatically generated. Complete accuracy is not guaranteed.
Speaker 1 (00:00):
Disclaimer. This is a summary of The Seven Husbands of
Evelyn Hugo by Taylor Jenkins. Read It is not a
substitute for the original novel and does not contain the
full text or exact phrasing of the author. All characters,
plot points, and themes discussed are based on interpretations of
the published work. Readers are encouraged to consult the original
(00:21):
book for a complete and authentic experience of the story.
Monique takes an introspective turn as she asks Evelyn a
question that digs deep into her resilience. How did she
manage to stay confident after Don left her and nearly
destroyed her career? Evelyn, with the calm poise that defines her,
reveals a profound insight. There's a difference between being hurt
(00:44):
by heartbreak and being hurt by a failed marriage. This
distinction resonates with Monique, and who has never considered that
there could be a nuance between personal betrayal and the
collapse of a public union. Monique, grappling with her own
personal challenges, slips up and reveals that she's been contemplating
her own divorce. Evelyn's words seem to land heavily on
(01:06):
her as she processes them, the distinction echoing in her mind.
It's a moment of personal reflection for Monique, a woman
standing at a crossroads in her own life, realizing that
the kind of pain she might be feeling could be
different from what she has assumed. The chapter shifts as
Monique discusses Evelyn's request for her to write her biography.
(01:29):
The idea of working on Evelyn's story excites Monique, but
it also requires her to strike a deal with Frankie.
Monique is determined to secure a promotion and a raise,
so she makes a bargain. If she can land a
cover story and photoshoot with Evelyn, Frankie will reward her
with what she wants. It's a calculated move on Monique's part,
(01:50):
a reminder that in the world of high stakes and
career ambitions, personal and professional motives often intertwine. Monique, eager
to move forward with the biography, put wish is Evelyn
for a photoshoot, something she believes is necessary to make
the project a success. However, Evelyn is firm in her refusal.
This is no simple request, and Evelyn's reluctance is clear.
(02:11):
In a bold move, Monique makes it clear that without
the photoshoot, she will walk away from the project entirely.
This sets the stage for a standoff of wills. Evelyn,
ever the strategist, finally agrees to the photoshoot, but with conditions.
She makes it clear that Monique must dedicate herself entirely
to the biography. Every moment must be spent working on it. Additionally,
(02:36):
Evelyn insists that Monique can't pressure her into answering questions
she's uncomfortable with. The terms are set, and Monique, though
pleased by the outcome, begins to feel a strange shift.
The realization hits her like a wave. Evelyn, in her way,
has agreed to her request, but it's not out of
simple goodwill. Evelyn must want something in return, something Monique
(02:58):
can't yet fathom. Once the Shining Star, Evelyn's now relegated
to making films that are bound to flop, films that
fail to reignite her career. As the years pass, she
watches both Dawn and Celia ascend to new heights in
their careers while she languishes in the shadows. Despite the
pain of her dwindling fame, Evelyn remains resolute in her
(03:19):
desire to keep her relationship with Celia under wraps, avoiding
any public appearances together to shield their love from the
judgment of the world. Evelyn's fall from Grace is so
complete that she isn't even invited to the Academy Awards,
an event that once would have been a highlight of
her career. Still, she finds herself in a supportive role
(03:41):
when it comes to Celia. As Celia prepares for the
big night, Evelyn is there, helping her get ready and
offering quiet reassurance. Although Evelyn isn't there in person to
witness the event, she watches from the safety of her home,
anxiously awaiting the results. When Celia wins the coveted Best
Supporting Actress oscar for her role in Little Women, Evelyn's
(04:03):
heart swells with pride. She's so overcome with emotion that,
in a spontaneous moment of excitement, she kisses the television
screen so hard that she chips her tooth. It's a small,
almost absurd moment, but it carries immense weight. It's a
gesture that speaks volumes about Evelyn's feelings for Celia, a
love she can't openly share with the world. Rather than
(04:27):
going out to celebrate, Celia returns home to share the
victory with Evelyn. The simplicity of the gesture, the two
of them together in their own quiet celebration, means the
world to both of them. Celia, touched by Evelyn's kiss
on the screen, understands just how deeply Evelyn cares. However,
for Evelyn, the reality of her fading career is undeniable.
(04:48):
With no prospects in Hollywood, she makes a decision. She's
going to Paris. With her American film career in tatters,
the city of Light offers a chance for a fresh start.
It's a bittersweet decision, but it's a step toward reclaiming
control of her life on her own terms. With the
help of Harry, she's introduced to some of the most
influential figures in the French film industry, including Max Girard,
(05:12):
an up and coming director known for his work in
the New Wave movement. Max is immediately captivated by Evelyn's
beauty and star power, and he goes so far as
to fire the actress already cast in his upcoming film
to offer the role to Evelyn instead. However, there's a catch.
Max requires Evelyn to appear topless in the film boot Entron,
(05:34):
which translates to life of the Party. The idea of
stripping for the camera isn't new to Evelyn, but this
role will demand something more daring than what she's done before. Unfazed,
Evelyn agrees, understanding the importance of maintaining control over her image,
she crafts what will become the most iconic scene in
the film, a stunning moment in which she emerges topless
(05:56):
from the water, but the screen cuts to black before
the audience can see her breasts. It's a brilliant move
on Evelyn's part, a way to spark desire without fully
revealing herself. She explains that she knows how to create
that desire because she understands what it means to want
a woman, an insight that gives the scene an emotional depth,
(06:17):
not just a physical one. The success of the film
leads to a wave of attention, and soon Evelyn is
once again a subject of media fascination. An article in
Photo Moment reveals that rockstar Mick Riva, after watching Bhuton
trom becomes so enamored with Evelyn that he declares his
intention to marry her, despite having never met her. The
(06:38):
story of Evelyn's allure spreads even further as her career
continues to soar. Meanwhile, Hollywood is buzzing with other developments.
An article in Hollywood Digest announces that Harry has left
Sunset Studios and moved to Fox Studios, where Evelyn has
secured a starring role in an Adeptung adaptation of Anna Karenina.
(06:59):
The movie Uo signals a new chapter in Evelyn's career,
one where she's embracing both the challenges and rewards of
a changing industry. But not everyone is cheering for Evelyn's success.
Subrosa publishes a gossip piece about Don Adler and his
new fiancee, Ruby Riley. The article speculates that Don's engagement
might be a sign of jealousy, with Don seemingly unable
(07:21):
to accept that Evelyn has once again reclaimed the spotlight. Evelyn, Harry,
and Celia later attend a Mick Reeva concert, a night
meant to be full of fun and music, but it
soon becomes more complicated than Evelyn expected. As they enjoy
the performance, Evelyn is so caught up in the joy
of being with Harry and Celia that she forgets herself
(07:44):
for a moment. She takes Celia's hand in public, a
gesture of affection that, while natural to her, is risky
in the context of their secret relationship. In the crowd,
a woman notices the intimate act and appears to whisper
to the man beside her, immediately raising Evelyn's anxiety. The
fear that their romantic relationship might be exposed to the
world begins to settle in. Knowing the potential consequences of
(08:08):
such a revelation, Evelyn takes quick action without hesitation. She
calls out to Mick Riva, distracting the audience by turning
the spotlight on him and creating a diversion to draw
attention away from her and Celia. It's a moment of
quick thinking, but it also reveals the deep anxiety Evelyn
feels about their relationship being uncovered. The stakes are high,
(08:31):
and Evelyn knows how carefully she must navigate the public eye. Soon,
the gossip mill begins to turn. In sub Rosa, an
article speculates about the nature of Evelyn and Celia's relationship.
The piece reveals that Celia has been spending the night
at Evelyn's house, hinting that the two women might be
more than just friends. The subtle insinuation that their bond
(08:54):
is romantic shakes the foundation of the carefully constructed public
images they've built of maintaining a secret relationship with Celia
begins to weigh heavily on Evelyn. The media is starting
to catch wind of their romance, and Evelyn, ever the strategist,
comes up with a bold plan to deflect the attention
away from them. She tells Celia that she intends to
(09:17):
go on a date with Mick Riva, get him to
elope with her, and then quickly get an annulment. The
idea is to create such a spectacle that the press
will focus on her short lived marriage to Mick, pulling
attention away from her and Celia's relationship. However, Celia is
devastated by this plan. The thought of Evelyn using another
man as a shield, especially when it means potentially using
(09:40):
Mick as a pawn in her ongoing pursuit of fame,
hurts her deeply. She accuses Evelyn of caring more about
her public image and her career than about their relationship
to Celia. This feels like another sacrifice on Evelyn's part,
a choice to preserve her reputation at the expense of
their love. Evelyn, though remains firm. She insists that her
(10:02):
plan is the only way to save both their careers.
She tries to explain that Celia, in her naivete, doesn't
fully grasp the stakes of the situation. While Celia's pain
is evident, Evelyn is resolute, knowing how easily their careers
could be destroyed by a scandal. After some tension and
heartfelt conflict, Celia reluctantly agrees to go along with the plan,
(10:25):
but she does so with a condition. After the annulment,
Evelyn must move in with her. It's a compromise, a
way for Celia to feel that their relationship, despite all
the deception and pain, will eventually be prioritized. Evelyn agrees,
and though both women are hurt by the situation, they
come to an uneasy understanding, bound by the complex web
(10:46):
of love, career, and fame that defines their lives. Evelyn
walkss through her calculated approach to Mick Reva, a man
she knows can help her divert attention from her real
relationship with Celia. She tricks Mick into mary marrying her
by pretending to be the perfect woman he desires, but
with one condition, her moral high ground. She convinces him
(11:08):
that she's aching to be with him, but her principles,
her beliefs about marriage, hold her back. The couple heads
to Las Vegas, where Evelyn keeps up her act, playing
the part of a woman torn between her desires and
her virtues. They drink, they gamble, and as the night
goes on, Evelyn grows tired of the parade, but even
in her exhaustion, she sees Mick as the ticket to
(11:30):
a more conventional life with Celia. Mick, completely taken in
by the performance, declares his love for Evelyn and proposes.
The next logical step in her plan unfolds and they marry. However,
Evelyn has no intention of keeping the marriage intact. She
deliberately becomes a bad lover, acting as unattractive and undesirable
as possible, hoping to drive Mick to end the union himself.
(11:54):
Her performance, in her mind, is oscar worthy, a carefully
crafted spectacle that will allow her to a escas gape
the situation while still protecting Celia's secret. Mick, in turn,
soon becomes fed up and ends the marriage and Evelyn's
plan is complete. The fallout from their brief marriage becomes
public in a photomone article Naphash, which sarcastically covers the
(12:16):
short lived union. It's even swifter annulment In another article
from Subrosa. The media reports Evelyn's heartbreak over mixed departure,
but Evelyn, with her usual detachment, sees this as just
another part of her carefully orchestrated life, where love and
fame rarely intersect in a way that benefits her. For
(12:36):
a brief moment, Evelyn and Celia experience the kind of
love they've both longed for, finding comfort in each other's
company as if their bond could withstand anything. But as
time passes, Evelyn's world begins to shift when she realizes
she's pregnant. This revelation shakes her to the core, and
what follows is a confrontation that exposes the fractures in
(12:58):
their relationship. The tension comes to a head when Celia,
devastated by the news, confronts Evelyn. She didn't understand that
Evelyn's plan with Mick involves sleeping with him not out
of desire, but out of necessity to protect their secret.
Celia's pain turns to anger, and she accuses Evelyn of
being a prostitute, someone willing to sacrifice herself for fame
(13:20):
and career. Her words sting, calling into question Evelyn's love
for her, suggesting that fame means more to Evelyn than
their relationship ever could. Evelyn, unable to hold back, fights
back fiercely. She tries to explain that her actions, though painful,
were all done for Celia to protect them both. Evelyn
confesses that she could choose a different life, a life
(13:42):
where she could have a family, children, and happiness, but
Celia couldn't. She believes that fame for Celia is the
only thing that keeps her going, that makes her feel valued.
The argument escalates, emotions boiling over until Celia, overwhelmed with
hurt and disillusionment, Lee leaves Evelyn. They part ways, each
(14:03):
carrying the weight of what's been said and done. Their
separation lasts for five long years. The silence between them
is deafening, with no contact during that time as they
each try to heal from the wounds of their love,
a love now fractured by the harsh realities of their lives.
The interview takes a poignant turn when Monique asks Evelyn
(14:23):
a question that seems to hit too close to home.
Does she regret not reaching out to Celia after their
bitter separation. The question lingers in the air, and Evelyn's
calm demeanor cracks. Her emotions surged to the surface as
she admits that, yes, she regrets every single moment she
didn't spend with Celia, especially now that Celia is gone.
(14:45):
Evelyn confesses, her voice heavy with sorrow, that always knew
Celia would return to her, that their story wasn't finished.
Their bond, though fractured, had never truly been severed. She
insists that they both understood this unspoken truth, that they
would find their way back to one another. But in
the time that followed Celia's departure, Evelyn had to navigate
(15:07):
the fallout of her personal and professional life, and so
to ensure the success of Anna Karenina, she made another choice.
She married her costar Rex North, who portrayed Count Vronsky
in the film, in a marriage that was more about
survival than love. As Evelyn reflects on the choices she made,
the pain of lost time and unspoken words weighs on her,
(15:29):
but the interview takes another unexpected turn when Monique's stranged
husband David texts her in the middle of their conversation.
His message is simple, but loaded. We need to talk.
Evelyn and Rex North's marriage is revealed to be a strategic,
business driven arrangement. Their union, while appearing like a conventional
marriage to the public, is actually a calculated move designed
(15:52):
to boost ticket sales for their film Anna Karenina. Despite
the lack of romance, there's a mutual understanding between them.
They both know this marriage is for show, but the
question arises whether they might cross that line into real intimacy.
They both agree that they're free to see other people
as long as they remain discreet. Evelyn values Rex's honesty
(16:15):
and appreciates that he won't embarrass her in the press.
Their connection is rooted in mutual respect and practicality rather
than love. In the aftermath of Celia's departure, Evelyn hires
a Salvadoran maid named Luisa, who speaks Spanish in front
of her and unknowingly calls Evelyn crazy. Evelyn, who has
been hiding her Cuban heritage for so long, feels a
(16:38):
sense of shame when she overhears this, but her feelings
of guilt gradually transform into a quiet bond with Luisa.
Evelyn begins to cherish their time together, and in the
process she grows more accepting of her own roots, something
she had long suppressed in her pursuit of fame. Both
Evelyn and Rex find themselves overlooked by the Academy awards
(16:59):
and unforce fortunate snub that leaves them both feeling dejected.
They return home together, their spirits dampened by the rejection,
and find themselves drowning their disappointment in alcohol. Drunk and tired,
they each retire to their separate rooms, but Evelyn, struggling
to undo the tight clasp of her dress, finds herself
(17:19):
unexpectedly feeling a deep sense of loneliness. It's in this
vulnerable moment that Rex enters her room, his intentions clear
as he attempts to seduce her. Evelyn, however, is resolute
in her refusal. Though she's tempted by the idea, she
pushes back firmly, telling Rex that no matter the circumstances,
it will never happen between them. This interaction is a
(17:42):
poignant reminder that, despite their partnership in business and their
personal history, the true connection Evelyn longs for still eludes her.
The following morning, Evelyn's world shifts when she receives hees
a phone call from Harry. He brings good news. Fox
Studios is offering both her and Rex a lucrative three
picture deal, with no limits on the price they're willing
(18:04):
to pay. What excites Evelyn the most, however, is the
creative control they're offering her. The studio is giving her
the freedom to choose the films she wants to make,
and the prospect of being the highest paid actress in
Hollywood becomes a tantalizing reality. Evelyn and Rex's marriage, which
had once been a business arrangement, begins to unravel after
(18:27):
two and a half years, Rex, now infatuated with Joy Nathan,
an actress he has been involved with off and on
for years, decides to pursue a romantic relationship with her.
This new development forces Evelyn and Rex to confront the
reality of their situation. Aware that their personal lives sell
better than their professional ones, they both agree to stage
(18:48):
a public separation, planning to feed the press a story
about their ongoing affairs. The idea behind this, they hope,
is to boost the box office performance of their late film.
Using scandal to attract attention. To add credibility to their
fabricated affair, Evelyn enlists Ruby's help. She asks Ruby to
(19:09):
tip off the press about her supposed relationship with Harry,
hoping to get photographed in a racy moment that will
make the story more believable. During their conversation, Evelyn learns
something deeply troubling. Don, her first husband, had also abused Ruby.
This revelation shakes Evelyn to her core. She feels a
heavy sense of guilt for having stayed silent about Ruby's
(19:30):
abuse all these years. The weight of her silence leaves
Evelyn questioning her own complicity in the suffering of others,
and she's left grappling with the emotional emotional fallout of
her actions. At the same time, Harry, the man who
has been a loyal confidant and business partner to Evelyn,
opens up to her about his own secret. He tells
(19:51):
her that he is involved with John Braverman, Celia's husband,
and reveals that their marriage is nothing more than a facade.
God Monique reflects on her day as she heads home
from work, the weight of her interview with Evelyn lingers
in her mind, but as she arrives home, her mother
offers her a moment of reassurance. In a heartfelt conversation,
(20:15):
Monique's mom tells her that her father would be incredibly
proud of her achievements. The simple words of encouragement are comforting,
but they only add to the internal conflict Monique is
grappling with. As the conversation unfolds, Monique's thoughts drift back
to Evelyn. She hints to her mother that in less
than a week she will discover something about Evelyn that
(20:37):
will change everything. It's clear that Monique feels a storm
of emotions, brewing excitement, uncertainty, and perhaps even fear. The
scene is then set at the Oscars, where both Celia
and Evelyn are once again nominated for Best Actress. The
atmosphere is charged with tension as both women attend the
ceremony with their respective husbands. When Ruby wins the Oscar,
(21:00):
Evelyn is unable to hold back her emotions and retreats
to the bathroom, overwhelmed by a mixture of disappointment and sadness.
As she stands there trying to regain her composure, Celia
follows her. In the moment Celia enters the room, something
in Evelyn shifts. She realizes with certainty that Celia is
still deeply in love with her. The two women find
(21:22):
themselves alone in the bathroom and they begin to talk,
unraveling the hurt from their previous fight. It's as if
time has collapsed. Years of heartache and longing between them
come rushing to the surface. The connection between them is undeniable,
and before they know it, their conversation leads to a
passionate kiss. The intimacy is raw, emotional, and fraught with
(21:44):
all the years of love and separation. The moment feels stolen,
almost dangerous, as they are nearly caught when two other
women enter the bathroom, But as quickly as they arrived,
they leave, giving Evelyn and Celia the privacy they so
desperately need. With no more interruptions, the two women give
in to their desires. In that cramped bathroom, they make love,
(22:07):
an act that feels both desperate and liberating, a culmination
of everything they've suppressed. Later on, Evelyn had the sense
that for the first time, she's finally creating the family
she's always longed for. The unconventional arrangement between her, Celia, Harry,
and John becomes a delicate dance of appearances and hidden truths.
(22:29):
To the outside world, Evelyn and Harry's marriage is the
public front of a heterosexual union, just as John and
Celia's marriage serves as a cover for their true feelings.
In private, however, the two couples live separate lives that
reflect their real relationships. Celia and Evelyn share an apartment,
a quiet space where their love can bloom freely, while
(22:50):
Harry and John live together in Harry's house, continuing their
own connection behind closed doors. Life goes on in this
fragile but comfortable balance. One day, the group gathers to
watch the news of the Stonewall riots, a pivotal moment
in LGBTQ plus history. As they watch the riots unfold,
Celia feels a surge of hope, believing that this event
(23:11):
will be a turning point. She envisions a world where
gay people can finally be free to express their sexuality
without fear. Eager to support the cause, Celia suggests going
down to join the protests, but Evelyn and Harry talk
her out of it. They worry that their presence would
only draw attention away from the cause itself, turning it
(23:32):
into a spectacle. Evelyn, however, quietly assures Monique that from
that point on, she and the others would be making
financial contributions to support the fight for gay rights, even
if it was a well kept secret. As the years pass,
Celia wins her second OSCAR. Once again, Evelyn is unable
to be by her side to celebrate this monumental achievement.
(23:54):
The absence weighs heavily on Celia, who drowns her disappointment
in alcohol. In a fit of frustration, she lashes out
at Evelyn cruelly, dismissing her accomplishments. Celia, in her drunken state,
calls Evelyn a nice pair of tits without an oscar
and accuses her of not being real because she has
shared her life with men as well as women. This
(24:16):
cuts deeply for Evelyn, who feels like she's been stripped
of her identity, her love for men, seemingly erasing the
entirety of her relationship with Celia. Monique presses Evelyn with
a question that has been lingering in her mind. Did
Evelyn ever confront Celia about the hurtful things she said specifically,
did she ever address Celia's cruel accusations. Evelyn, with a
(24:39):
quiet reflection, admits that there was a grain of truth
to Celia's words, that, yes, she had used her sexuality
to climb the ladder of Hollywood. But Evelyn's response is
not one of defensiveness. Instead, she acknowledges the harsh reality
of her choices. She explains that in the cutthroat world
she was navigating, sex was often her only leverage, which
(25:00):
the one thing she could control when everything else seemed
out of reach. It wasn't about manipulation, but survival. Her success,
Evelyn admits, came with compromises, and Celia's accusations, though painful,
were rooted in a truth that Evelyn couldn't entirely deny.
Later on, Evelyn, Celia, Harry, and John share a rare
(25:21):
moment of joy as they celebrate Evelyn's birthday together, all
four of them on a double date. It's a night
of laughter, warmth, and camaraderie, a fleeting glimpse into the
life that Evelyn has built with the people she holds
closest to her heart. Amid the celebration, Harry turns to
Evelyn with a more serious question, one that catches her
off guard. He asks if she's ready to have a
(25:43):
baby with him. After a pause, Evelyn, reflecting on the
years that have passed, feels a sense of readiness she
hadn't expected. She agrees, and together they make the decision
to start a family. A deeply emotional conversation unfolds between
Evelyn and Celia as they know navigate the decision to
have a child. Celia, conflicted, initially hesitates. She's never wanted
(26:06):
children and fears that her inability to give Evelyn a
baby might somehow make her feel incomplete. It's a vulnerable
moment for Celia as she grapples with the idea of
being unable to fulfill what Evelyn might want despite all
the love they share. Evelyn, sensing her partner's insecurities, reassures
Celia with heartfelt words, assuring her that she is more
(26:27):
than enough. Their connection transcends the need for biological ties.
Evelyn emphasizes that the love they share is the foundation
of everything, and it's this love that makes Celia enough
for her no matter what. With that, Celia ultimately agrees
to allow Evelyn to have the baby with Harry. Their
decision underscored by the depth of their bond. Later, as
(26:50):
they move beyond the conversation, Evelyn reflects on how in
giving herself to her, Celia has already given her everything
she ever needed. Later on, Evelyn and Harry's life together
takes on a new depth as they embrace the joys
and challenges of parent Their daughter, Connor, becomes the center
of their world, and in raising her together, their bond
(27:10):
as parents strengthens immeasurably. For Evelyn, it's a profound moment
of transformation. Finally, she feels as though she has what
she's longed for, a real family. She revels in the
role of wife and mother, the love she shares with
Harry and their daughter creating a sense of fulfillment she'd
never experienced before. While Harry and John continue to live separately,
(27:35):
Evelyn and Celia's home becomes a loving sanctuary for Connor,
where the child is surrounded by the care and support
of both mothers. Harry, though, is a frequent visitor, ensuring
he's always present for his daughter, and together they form
an unconventional but deeply meaningful family unit. Amidst this new
chapter of life, Celia encourages Evelyn to take a role
(27:57):
in Max's upcoming film Three a m a role that
was initially offered to Celia herself. Celia's motivation is clear.
After becoming a mother, Evelyn needs to take a role
that asserts her identity beyond the confines of motherhood. She
believes Evelyn should embrace a more sensual character to show
the world she's still the star she once was not
(28:18):
justified by her role as a mother. Evelyn, grateful for
Celia's support and guidance, accepts the role despite the fact
that her costar will be none other than Don. Her
past nemesis, Monique, presses Evelyn on a difficult question, why
did she agree to take the role in three Am
knowing that her former abuser Don would be her co star.
(28:39):
Evelyn's response is measured but deeply revealing. She admits that
the decision was complicated, layered with emotions and history. Don, wants,
a powerful and threatening figure in her life, was now
in a decline. His once dominant position had crumbled, and
Evelyn no longer saw him as the man who could
control her. In fact, she felt empowered by the shift
(29:01):
in their dynamics. She had the upper hand. Now she
could face him without fear. That without the weight of
his abuse looming over her, she felt that she had
nothing to lose. No longer shackled by the past, Evelyn
and Don meet for a simple sandwich, a moment that
is far from ordinary given their tumultuous past. The conversation
begins with Don offering a swift apology for everything he's done,
(29:24):
but Evelyn isn't convinced. She tells him that words alone,
no matter how sincere can't erase the damage he caused.
His apology falls short, and the rawness of their history
hangs in the air. However, Don doesn't stop at a
mere apology. He digs deeper, offering a heartfelt explanation that
takes full responsibility for his past actions. His willingness to
(29:47):
confront the truth of his behavior and the pain it
caused Evelyn catches her off guard. This shift in Don's demeanor,
his acceptance of responsibility, opens the door for a subtle
change in their dynamic. While the damage of their history
can't be undone, Evelyn softens toward him. She's not ready
to welcome him back into her life as a friend,
(30:08):
but she acknowledges that they can move forward with a
certain civility, no longer as enemies, but as two people
who have come to terms with the past. They can
be friendly, but not friends. It's a small, yet significant
step in their complicated relationship. The scene opens with Evelyn, Celia, Harry, John,
and Connor enjoying a peaceful family picnic. The sun shines
(30:31):
down on them as they share a rare moment of
simple joy. Surrounded by the warmth of each other's company.
The day feels perfect, an idyllic snapshot of the family
Evelyn has always longed for. They laugh, eat, and bask
in the togetherness that has often eluded them. But as
the day unfolds, Evelyn's mind shifts to a darker reflection.
(30:52):
Despite the happiness surrounding her, she knows that this moment
is fleeting. She can feel it in her bones that
this is one of the last time they will all
be together sharing such care free happiness. It's a bittersweet realization,
and Evelyn can't help but feel the weight of what's
to come. In a rare moment of vulnerability, she admits
(31:12):
that everything she's built, the love, the relationships, the family,
was ruined because of her actions after this day, the
feeling of impending loss hangs heavily in the air as
Evelyn grapples with the consequences of her past choices. Evelyn
throws herself into her role in Three Am, working tirelessly
on set. The demands of the film seem endless, and
(31:34):
her absence from home grows, prompting her to apologize to
Celia repeatedly. She knows the toll it's taking on their relationship,
but the movie is consuming her both physically and emotionally.
Then a conversation with Max shakes her. He suggests that
the film would benefit from showing a genuine, raw depiction
of sexual pleasure when her character is intimate with Don's character. Evelyn, ever,
(31:59):
the professional, agrees, understanding the significance of portraying a woman's
pleasure on screen, especially in an era where such things
are still taboo. She's determined to give her all to
the role, but in her heart, she knows she's not
being transparent with Celia. She tells herself she should have
told Celia about the scene beforehand, but it's too late now.
(32:21):
As she films the scene, Evelyn releases herself fully, giving
Max exactly what he's asked for. The scene is raw
and powerful, but once the camera stops rolling, Evelyn is
consumed by guilt. She cries, feeling the weight of the
betrayal to Celia. This was more than just a professional decision.
It was deeply personal, and Evelyn knows it. When she
(32:44):
returns home, she approaches Celia, seeking forgiveness and asking for
permission to have filmed the scene, but Celia, devastated by
the news, says she could never bear the thought of
Evelyn sharing herself with anyone else like that. In a
heart wrenching moment, Celia eves. Evelyn, in a panic, searches
for Celia, tracking her down. In a desperate attempt to
(33:06):
make things right, she begs Celia to return, promising to
quit acting altogether if that's what it takes to repair
their relationship, but Celia, with a painful clarity, tells Evelyn
that she knows she could never give up acting. She's
come to terms with the fact that Evelyn can never
fully belong to anyone, least of all her. Monique, still
(33:26):
processing Evelyn's tumultuous journey, asks the inevitable question, was Evelyn's
relationship with Celia truly over. Evelyn doesn't hesitate to answer
it is, and the weight of that truth hangs heavily
in the air. Monique, ever curious, probes further, asking Evelyn
if all the pain and sacrifice was worth it. Evelyn's
response is immediate and laden with regret. No. She acknowledges
(33:50):
that Don may have won an Oscar for his performance
in three Am, but in the process she lost something
much more precious, the respect of the public. Her portrayal
in the film Too Sexual for the Time left her
labeled in ways that haunted her career and her heart. Monique,
who has been carefully listening, picks up on the thread
of resentment that still lingers in Evelyn's words. She points
(34:14):
out that Evelyn seems to still carry a anger over
how the world treated her after the film's release. The
truth is painful. The public's harsh judgment was a blow
Evelyn never quite recovered from. The conversation shifts to a
more personal and sensitive topic, Evelyn's bisexuality. Monique wonders aloud
if this aspect of Evelyn's identity created even more strain
(34:36):
in her relationship with Celia. Did her sexual relationships with
men play a part in the unraveling of their bond,
Evelyn's response is blunt. While she insists that her relationship
with Celia faltered not because of her bisexuality, but because
of her relentless obsession with fame, she acknowledges that she
used her body as a tool to further her career,
(34:59):
a habit she couldn't It wasn't about cheating on Celia,
but about a deep, consuming need to keep pushing forward,
no matter the cost to her personal life. Evelyn's words
come with a raw vulnerability as she admits something she's
never openly said before. She's not a good person. There's
an undeniable sadness in her confession, and Monique, sensing her discomfort,
(35:22):
pushes back, but Evelyn remains resolute, explaining that in time,
Monique will see things the way she does. She's convinced
that the layers of her story, once fully uncovered, will
paint a picture that leaves no room for redemption. The
sudden death of John, Harry's longtime partner, shakes their world
to its core. John dies unexpectedly from a heart attack,
(35:43):
and the grief that follows is unbearable for Harry. He
retreats into himself consumed by sorrow, drinking heavily and locking
himself away in bed. This loss is more than just
a personal tragedy for Harry. It's a wound that no
one seems to understand, least of all the public, who
only view John as a friend of Harry's. But Evelyn,
(36:04):
being close to Harry, sees the depth of his grief.
She knows that Harry's sorrow goes far beyond what anyone
else can fathom. In the wake of John's death, Evelyn, Harry, Connor,
and Celia attend the funeral. The scene is heavy, filled
with unspoken emotions, and yet Evelyn and Celia remain distant, silent,
even in the shared space of mourning. There's a gulf
(36:26):
between them, one that no one speaks of, but that
both women feel deeply. Celia and Evelyn don't exchange a
single word, their once close bond now strained and fragile.
As they gather, there's an odd moment of recognition for Connor, who,
despite the family's current brokenness, somehow identifies Celia not from
their real life interactions, but from her portrayal of Beth
(36:49):
in Little Women. It's a strange, bittersweet reminder of how
far the world has moved from the intimacy they once shared,
and how much of Celia's life, especially her career, has
been captured and remembered by the public in ways that
don't quite align with the people she truly is. In
the wake of all this, Evelyn reflects on the state
of her own family. She realizes that what once felt
(37:13):
like a picture of closeness and stability has crumbled away.
The threads that once bound them together have frayed beyond repair.
Her family has disintegrated in a way that feels irreversible,
leaving Evelyn to confront the wreckage of her personal life.
In the midst of this grief, an article in now
This emerges, revealing that Celia has been spending an increasing
(37:36):
amount of time with another actress, Joan Marker. As Evelyn
grapples with her own isolation and the unspoken tension with Celia,
she is forced to reckon with the reality of what
remains of her once tightly knit family. The funeral, the grief,
and the quiet yet palpable distance between the women all
contribute to a sense of finality, a point of no
(37:57):
return for their once intimate relationships. Harry is trapped in
the depths of his grief, unable to escape the heavy
weight of his emotions following John's death. The only things
that seem to break through the fog of sorrow are
the love he has for his daughter Connor and the
solace he finds in his work. Seeing how much Harry
(38:17):
is struggling, Evelyn takes matters into her own hands and
helps him find a project that can reignite his passion
All for Us, a film that they can both work
on together. The film offers Harry a much needed distraction,
and it becomes a lifeline for him, something to pour
his energy into rather than drowning in the sadness of
(38:38):
his personal life. As they work on the film, both
Evelyn and Harry find themselves back at the top of
their game. The project becomes a success, and both of
them earn Oscars for their performances. Max, the director of
the film, also wins an Oscar for Best Director, marking
a triumphant moment for all involved. The night is filled
(38:59):
with celebration, but for Evelyn it carries a deeper, more
personal significance. As she steps up to accept her award,
she makes sure to include a subtle, yet powerful tribute
to Celia. Though their relationship is strained and they remain apart,
Evelyn wants Celia to know that she still loves her.
In her acceptance speech, she alludes to Celia a moment
(39:21):
that echoes her long held affection and serves as a
reminder of the love they once shared. After the whirlwind
of their Oscar wins, Evelyn and Max share a rare,
light hearted moment away from the glitz and glamour of Hollywood. Max,
eager to escape the intensity of the awards night, suggests
they grab some hamburgers together, a simple, almost rebellious act
(39:43):
in contrast to their usual world of luxury. They head
to a Jack in the Box, but when their limo
can't fit through the drive through, they decide to go inside.
It's an odd, yet endearing sight Evelyn in her Oscar
worthy ball gown walking into a fast food joint, a
stark contrast to the usual scenes of red carpets and
elite parties. However, their attempt at normalcy quickly turns chaotic
(40:06):
as soon as they step inside. The surprise of seeing
a Hollywood star dressed in such an extravagant outfit sends
the crowd into a frenzy fans mob. Evelyn, shocked and
excited by the unexpected encounter in the midst of the crowd,
Max acts quickly, rushing to her side and lifting her up,
literally rescuing her from the overwhelming attention. He carries her
(40:29):
back to the safety of the limo, a chivalrous act
that feels almost like a scene out of a fairy tale.
As they sit together, their emotions shift. The warmth of
the moment, the relief from the chaos, and the lingering
connection between them lead to something more intimate. Max, filled
with emotion and a surge of affection, kisses Evelyn and
(40:50):
confesses his love for her. For Evelyn, it's a bittersweet moment,
one that brings a sense of relief and longing. She
hasn't felt desired in a long time, and Max's confession
stirs something deep inside her. It's a fleeting, yet powerful
feeling of being wanted, something she's craved but never fully
received in her past relationships. The following morning, Evelyn wakes
(41:12):
up to a more significant gesture. Max, still caught up
in the emotions of the night before, sends her two
dozen roses along with a marriage proposal. The grandeur of
the gesture is as intense as the connection they've shared,
and Evelyn finds herself at a crossroads once again.
Disclaimer. This is a summary of The Seven Husbands of
Evelyn Hugo by Taylor Jenkins. Read It is not a
substitute for the original novel and does not contain the
full text or exact phrasing of the author. All characters,
plot points, and themes discussed are based on interpretations of
the published work. Readers are encouraged to consult the original
(00:21):
book for a complete and authentic experience of the story.
Monique takes an introspective turn as she asks Evelyn a
question that digs deep into her resilience. How did she
manage to stay confident after Don left her and nearly
destroyed her career? Evelyn, with the calm poise that defines her,
reveals a profound insight. There's a difference between being hurt
(00:44):
by heartbreak and being hurt by a failed marriage. This
distinction resonates with Monique, and who has never considered that
there could be a nuance between personal betrayal and the
collapse of a public union. Monique, grappling with her own
personal challenges, slips up and reveals that she's been contemplating
her own divorce. Evelyn's words seem to land heavily on
(01:06):
her as she processes them, the distinction echoing in her mind.
It's a moment of personal reflection for Monique, a woman
standing at a crossroads in her own life, realizing that
the kind of pain she might be feeling could be
different from what she has assumed. The chapter shifts as
Monique discusses Evelyn's request for her to write her biography.
(01:29):
The idea of working on Evelyn's story excites Monique, but
it also requires her to strike a deal with Frankie.
Monique is determined to secure a promotion and a raise,
so she makes a bargain. If she can land a
cover story and photoshoot with Evelyn, Frankie will reward her
with what she wants. It's a calculated move on Monique's part,
(01:50):
a reminder that in the world of high stakes and
career ambitions, personal and professional motives often intertwine. Monique, eager
to move forward with the biography, put wish is Evelyn
for a photoshoot, something she believes is necessary to make
the project a success. However, Evelyn is firm in her refusal.
This is no simple request, and Evelyn's reluctance is clear.
(02:11):
In a bold move, Monique makes it clear that without
the photoshoot, she will walk away from the project entirely.
This sets the stage for a standoff of wills. Evelyn,
ever the strategist, finally agrees to the photoshoot, but with conditions.
She makes it clear that Monique must dedicate herself entirely
to the biography. Every moment must be spent working on it. Additionally,
(02:36):
Evelyn insists that Monique can't pressure her into answering questions
she's uncomfortable with. The terms are set, and Monique, though
pleased by the outcome, begins to feel a strange shift.
The realization hits her like a wave. Evelyn, in her way,
has agreed to her request, but it's not out of
simple goodwill. Evelyn must want something in return, something Monique
(02:58):
can't yet fathom. Once the Shining Star, Evelyn's now relegated
to making films that are bound to flop, films that
fail to reignite her career. As the years pass, she
watches both Dawn and Celia ascend to new heights in
their careers while she languishes in the shadows. Despite the
pain of her dwindling fame, Evelyn remains resolute in her
(03:19):
desire to keep her relationship with Celia under wraps, avoiding
any public appearances together to shield their love from the
judgment of the world. Evelyn's fall from Grace is so
complete that she isn't even invited to the Academy Awards,
an event that once would have been a highlight of
her career. Still, she finds herself in a supportive role
(03:41):
when it comes to Celia. As Celia prepares for the
big night, Evelyn is there, helping her get ready and
offering quiet reassurance. Although Evelyn isn't there in person to
witness the event, she watches from the safety of her home,
anxiously awaiting the results. When Celia wins the coveted Best
Supporting Actress oscar for her role in Little Women, Evelyn's
(04:03):
heart swells with pride. She's so overcome with emotion that,
in a spontaneous moment of excitement, she kisses the television
screen so hard that she chips her tooth. It's a small,
almost absurd moment, but it carries immense weight. It's a
gesture that speaks volumes about Evelyn's feelings for Celia, a
love she can't openly share with the world. Rather than
(04:27):
going out to celebrate, Celia returns home to share the
victory with Evelyn. The simplicity of the gesture, the two
of them together in their own quiet celebration, means the
world to both of them. Celia, touched by Evelyn's kiss
on the screen, understands just how deeply Evelyn cares. However,
for Evelyn, the reality of her fading career is undeniable.
(04:48):
With no prospects in Hollywood, she makes a decision. She's
going to Paris. With her American film career in tatters,
the city of Light offers a chance for a fresh start.
It's a bittersweet decision, but it's a step toward reclaiming
control of her life on her own terms. With the
help of Harry, she's introduced to some of the most
influential figures in the French film industry, including Max Girard,
(05:12):
an up and coming director known for his work in
the New Wave movement. Max is immediately captivated by Evelyn's
beauty and star power, and he goes so far as
to fire the actress already cast in his upcoming film
to offer the role to Evelyn instead. However, there's a catch.
Max requires Evelyn to appear topless in the film boot Entron,
(05:34):
which translates to life of the Party. The idea of
stripping for the camera isn't new to Evelyn, but this
role will demand something more daring than what she's done before. Unfazed,
Evelyn agrees, understanding the importance of maintaining control over her image,
she crafts what will become the most iconic scene in
the film, a stunning moment in which she emerges topless
(05:56):
from the water, but the screen cuts to black before
the audience can see her breasts. It's a brilliant move
on Evelyn's part, a way to spark desire without fully
revealing herself. She explains that she knows how to create
that desire because she understands what it means to want
a woman, an insight that gives the scene an emotional depth,
(06:17):
not just a physical one. The success of the film
leads to a wave of attention, and soon Evelyn is
once again a subject of media fascination. An article in
Photo Moment reveals that rockstar Mick Riva, after watching Bhuton
trom becomes so enamored with Evelyn that he declares his
intention to marry her, despite having never met her. The
(06:38):
story of Evelyn's allure spreads even further as her career
continues to soar. Meanwhile, Hollywood is buzzing with other developments.
An article in Hollywood Digest announces that Harry has left
Sunset Studios and moved to Fox Studios, where Evelyn has
secured a starring role in an Adeptung adaptation of Anna Karenina.
(06:59):
The movie Uo signals a new chapter in Evelyn's career,
one where she's embracing both the challenges and rewards of
a changing industry. But not everyone is cheering for Evelyn's success.
Subrosa publishes a gossip piece about Don Adler and his
new fiancee, Ruby Riley. The article speculates that Don's engagement
might be a sign of jealousy, with Don seemingly unable
(07:21):
to accept that Evelyn has once again reclaimed the spotlight. Evelyn, Harry,
and Celia later attend a Mick Reeva concert, a night
meant to be full of fun and music, but it
soon becomes more complicated than Evelyn expected. As they enjoy
the performance, Evelyn is so caught up in the joy
of being with Harry and Celia that she forgets herself
(07:44):
for a moment. She takes Celia's hand in public, a
gesture of affection that, while natural to her, is risky
in the context of their secret relationship. In the crowd,
a woman notices the intimate act and appears to whisper
to the man beside her, immediately raising Evelyn's anxiety. The
fear that their romantic relationship might be exposed to the
world begins to settle in. Knowing the potential consequences of
(08:08):
such a revelation, Evelyn takes quick action without hesitation. She
calls out to Mick Riva, distracting the audience by turning
the spotlight on him and creating a diversion to draw
attention away from her and Celia. It's a moment of
quick thinking, but it also reveals the deep anxiety Evelyn
feels about their relationship being uncovered. The stakes are high,
(08:31):
and Evelyn knows how carefully she must navigate the public eye. Soon,
the gossip mill begins to turn. In sub Rosa, an
article speculates about the nature of Evelyn and Celia's relationship.
The piece reveals that Celia has been spending the night
at Evelyn's house, hinting that the two women might be
more than just friends. The subtle insinuation that their bond
(08:54):
is romantic shakes the foundation of the carefully constructed public
images they've built of maintaining a secret relationship with Celia
begins to weigh heavily on Evelyn. The media is starting
to catch wind of their romance, and Evelyn, ever the strategist,
comes up with a bold plan to deflect the attention
away from them. She tells Celia that she intends to
(09:17):
go on a date with Mick Riva, get him to
elope with her, and then quickly get an annulment. The
idea is to create such a spectacle that the press
will focus on her short lived marriage to Mick, pulling
attention away from her and Celia's relationship. However, Celia is
devastated by this plan. The thought of Evelyn using another
man as a shield, especially when it means potentially using
(09:40):
Mick as a pawn in her ongoing pursuit of fame,
hurts her deeply. She accuses Evelyn of caring more about
her public image and her career than about their relationship
to Celia. This feels like another sacrifice on Evelyn's part,
a choice to preserve her reputation at the expense of
their love. Evelyn, though remains firm. She insists that her
(10:02):
plan is the only way to save both their careers.
She tries to explain that Celia, in her naivete, doesn't
fully grasp the stakes of the situation. While Celia's pain
is evident, Evelyn is resolute, knowing how easily their careers
could be destroyed by a scandal. After some tension and
heartfelt conflict, Celia reluctantly agrees to go along with the plan,
(10:25):
but she does so with a condition. After the annulment,
Evelyn must move in with her. It's a compromise, a
way for Celia to feel that their relationship, despite all
the deception and pain, will eventually be prioritized. Evelyn agrees,
and though both women are hurt by the situation, they
come to an uneasy understanding, bound by the complex web
(10:46):
of love, career, and fame that defines their lives. Evelyn
walkss through her calculated approach to Mick Reva, a man
she knows can help her divert attention from her real
relationship with Celia. She tricks Mick into mary marrying her
by pretending to be the perfect woman he desires, but
with one condition, her moral high ground. She convinces him
(11:08):
that she's aching to be with him, but her principles,
her beliefs about marriage, hold her back. The couple heads
to Las Vegas, where Evelyn keeps up her act, playing
the part of a woman torn between her desires and
her virtues. They drink, they gamble, and as the night
goes on, Evelyn grows tired of the parade, but even
in her exhaustion, she sees Mick as the ticket to
(11:30):
a more conventional life with Celia. Mick, completely taken in
by the performance, declares his love for Evelyn and proposes.
The next logical step in her plan unfolds and they marry. However,
Evelyn has no intention of keeping the marriage intact. She
deliberately becomes a bad lover, acting as unattractive and undesirable
as possible, hoping to drive Mick to end the union himself.
(11:54):
Her performance, in her mind, is oscar worthy, a carefully
crafted spectacle that will allow her to a escas gape
the situation while still protecting Celia's secret. Mick, in turn,
soon becomes fed up and ends the marriage and Evelyn's
plan is complete. The fallout from their brief marriage becomes
public in a photomone article Naphash, which sarcastically covers the
(12:16):
short lived union. It's even swifter annulment In another article
from Subrosa. The media reports Evelyn's heartbreak over mixed departure,
but Evelyn, with her usual detachment, sees this as just
another part of her carefully orchestrated life, where love and
fame rarely intersect in a way that benefits her. For
(12:36):
a brief moment, Evelyn and Celia experience the kind of
love they've both longed for, finding comfort in each other's
company as if their bond could withstand anything. But as
time passes, Evelyn's world begins to shift when she realizes
she's pregnant. This revelation shakes her to the core, and
what follows is a confrontation that exposes the fractures in
(12:58):
their relationship. The tension comes to a head when Celia,
devastated by the news, confronts Evelyn. She didn't understand that
Evelyn's plan with Mick involves sleeping with him not out
of desire, but out of necessity to protect their secret.
Celia's pain turns to anger, and she accuses Evelyn of
being a prostitute, someone willing to sacrifice herself for fame
(13:20):
and career. Her words sting, calling into question Evelyn's love
for her, suggesting that fame means more to Evelyn than
their relationship ever could. Evelyn, unable to hold back, fights
back fiercely. She tries to explain that her actions, though painful,
were all done for Celia to protect them both. Evelyn
confesses that she could choose a different life, a life
(13:42):
where she could have a family, children, and happiness, but
Celia couldn't. She believes that fame for Celia is the
only thing that keeps her going, that makes her feel valued.
The argument escalates, emotions boiling over until Celia, overwhelmed with
hurt and disillusionment, Lee leaves Evelyn. They part ways, each
(14:03):
carrying the weight of what's been said and done. Their
separation lasts for five long years. The silence between them
is deafening, with no contact during that time as they
each try to heal from the wounds of their love,
a love now fractured by the harsh realities of their lives.
The interview takes a poignant turn when Monique asks Evelyn
(14:23):
a question that seems to hit too close to home.
Does she regret not reaching out to Celia after their
bitter separation. The question lingers in the air, and Evelyn's
calm demeanor cracks. Her emotions surged to the surface as
she admits that, yes, she regrets every single moment she
didn't spend with Celia, especially now that Celia is gone.
(14:45):
Evelyn confesses, her voice heavy with sorrow, that always knew
Celia would return to her, that their story wasn't finished.
Their bond, though fractured, had never truly been severed. She
insists that they both understood this unspoken truth, that they
would find their way back to one another. But in
the time that followed Celia's departure, Evelyn had to navigate
(15:07):
the fallout of her personal and professional life, and so
to ensure the success of Anna Karenina, she made another choice.
She married her costar Rex North, who portrayed Count Vronsky
in the film, in a marriage that was more about
survival than love. As Evelyn reflects on the choices she made,
the pain of lost time and unspoken words weighs on her,
(15:29):
but the interview takes another unexpected turn when Monique's stranged
husband David texts her in the middle of their conversation.
His message is simple, but loaded. We need to talk.
Evelyn and Rex North's marriage is revealed to be a strategic,
business driven arrangement. Their union, while appearing like a conventional
marriage to the public, is actually a calculated move designed
(15:52):
to boost ticket sales for their film Anna Karenina. Despite
the lack of romance, there's a mutual understanding between them.
They both know this marriage is for show, but the
question arises whether they might cross that line into real intimacy.
They both agree that they're free to see other people
as long as they remain discreet. Evelyn values Rex's honesty
(16:15):
and appreciates that he won't embarrass her in the press.
Their connection is rooted in mutual respect and practicality rather
than love. In the aftermath of Celia's departure, Evelyn hires
a Salvadoran maid named Luisa, who speaks Spanish in front
of her and unknowingly calls Evelyn crazy. Evelyn, who has
been hiding her Cuban heritage for so long, feels a
(16:38):
sense of shame when she overhears this, but her feelings
of guilt gradually transform into a quiet bond with Luisa.
Evelyn begins to cherish their time together, and in the
process she grows more accepting of her own roots, something
she had long suppressed in her pursuit of fame. Both
Evelyn and Rex find themselves overlooked by the Academy awards
(16:59):
and unforce fortunate snub that leaves them both feeling dejected.
They return home together, their spirits dampened by the rejection,
and find themselves drowning their disappointment in alcohol. Drunk and tired,
they each retire to their separate rooms, but Evelyn, struggling
to undo the tight clasp of her dress, finds herself
(17:19):
unexpectedly feeling a deep sense of loneliness. It's in this
vulnerable moment that Rex enters her room, his intentions clear
as he attempts to seduce her. Evelyn, however, is resolute
in her refusal. Though she's tempted by the idea, she
pushes back firmly, telling Rex that no matter the circumstances,
it will never happen between them. This interaction is a
(17:42):
poignant reminder that, despite their partnership in business and their
personal history, the true connection Evelyn longs for still eludes her.
The following morning, Evelyn's world shifts when she receives hees
a phone call from Harry. He brings good news. Fox
Studios is offering both her and Rex a lucrative three
picture deal, with no limits on the price they're willing
(18:04):
to pay. What excites Evelyn the most, however, is the
creative control they're offering her. The studio is giving her
the freedom to choose the films she wants to make,
and the prospect of being the highest paid actress in
Hollywood becomes a tantalizing reality. Evelyn and Rex's marriage, which
had once been a business arrangement, begins to unravel after
(18:27):
two and a half years, Rex, now infatuated with Joy Nathan,
an actress he has been involved with off and on
for years, decides to pursue a romantic relationship with her.
This new development forces Evelyn and Rex to confront the
reality of their situation. Aware that their personal lives sell
better than their professional ones, they both agree to stage
(18:48):
a public separation, planning to feed the press a story
about their ongoing affairs. The idea behind this, they hope,
is to boost the box office performance of their late film.
Using scandal to attract attention. To add credibility to their
fabricated affair, Evelyn enlists Ruby's help. She asks Ruby to
(19:09):
tip off the press about her supposed relationship with Harry,
hoping to get photographed in a racy moment that will
make the story more believable. During their conversation, Evelyn learns
something deeply troubling. Don, her first husband, had also abused Ruby.
This revelation shakes Evelyn to her core. She feels a
heavy sense of guilt for having stayed silent about Ruby's
(19:30):
abuse all these years. The weight of her silence leaves
Evelyn questioning her own complicity in the suffering of others,
and she's left grappling with the emotional emotional fallout of
her actions. At the same time, Harry, the man who
has been a loyal confidant and business partner to Evelyn,
opens up to her about his own secret. He tells
(19:51):
her that he is involved with John Braverman, Celia's husband,
and reveals that their marriage is nothing more than a facade.
God Monique reflects on her day as she heads home
from work, the weight of her interview with Evelyn lingers
in her mind, but as she arrives home, her mother
offers her a moment of reassurance. In a heartfelt conversation,
(20:15):
Monique's mom tells her that her father would be incredibly
proud of her achievements. The simple words of encouragement are comforting,
but they only add to the internal conflict Monique is
grappling with. As the conversation unfolds, Monique's thoughts drift back
to Evelyn. She hints to her mother that in less
than a week she will discover something about Evelyn that
(20:37):
will change everything. It's clear that Monique feels a storm
of emotions, brewing excitement, uncertainty, and perhaps even fear. The
scene is then set at the Oscars, where both Celia
and Evelyn are once again nominated for Best Actress. The
atmosphere is charged with tension as both women attend the
ceremony with their respective husbands. When Ruby wins the Oscar,
(21:00):
Evelyn is unable to hold back her emotions and retreats
to the bathroom, overwhelmed by a mixture of disappointment and sadness.
As she stands there trying to regain her composure, Celia
follows her. In the moment Celia enters the room, something
in Evelyn shifts. She realizes with certainty that Celia is
still deeply in love with her. The two women find
(21:22):
themselves alone in the bathroom and they begin to talk,
unraveling the hurt from their previous fight. It's as if
time has collapsed. Years of heartache and longing between them
come rushing to the surface. The connection between them is undeniable,
and before they know it, their conversation leads to a
passionate kiss. The intimacy is raw, emotional, and fraught with
(21:44):
all the years of love and separation. The moment feels stolen,
almost dangerous, as they are nearly caught when two other
women enter the bathroom, But as quickly as they arrived,
they leave, giving Evelyn and Celia the privacy they so
desperately need. With no more interruptions, the two women give
in to their desires. In that cramped bathroom, they make love,
(22:07):
an act that feels both desperate and liberating, a culmination
of everything they've suppressed. Later on, Evelyn had the sense
that for the first time, she's finally creating the family
she's always longed for. The unconventional arrangement between her, Celia, Harry,
and John becomes a delicate dance of appearances and hidden truths.
(22:29):
To the outside world, Evelyn and Harry's marriage is the
public front of a heterosexual union, just as John and
Celia's marriage serves as a cover for their true feelings.
In private, however, the two couples live separate lives that
reflect their real relationships. Celia and Evelyn share an apartment,
a quiet space where their love can bloom freely, while
(22:50):
Harry and John live together in Harry's house, continuing their
own connection behind closed doors. Life goes on in this
fragile but comfortable balance. One day, the group gathers to
watch the news of the Stonewall riots, a pivotal moment
in LGBTQ plus history. As they watch the riots unfold,
Celia feels a surge of hope, believing that this event
(23:11):
will be a turning point. She envisions a world where
gay people can finally be free to express their sexuality
without fear. Eager to support the cause, Celia suggests going
down to join the protests, but Evelyn and Harry talk
her out of it. They worry that their presence would
only draw attention away from the cause itself, turning it
(23:32):
into a spectacle. Evelyn, however, quietly assures Monique that from
that point on, she and the others would be making
financial contributions to support the fight for gay rights, even
if it was a well kept secret. As the years pass,
Celia wins her second OSCAR. Once again, Evelyn is unable
to be by her side to celebrate this monumental achievement.
(23:54):
The absence weighs heavily on Celia, who drowns her disappointment
in alcohol. In a fit of frustration, she lashes out
at Evelyn cruelly, dismissing her accomplishments. Celia, in her drunken state,
calls Evelyn a nice pair of tits without an oscar
and accuses her of not being real because she has
shared her life with men as well as women. This
(24:16):
cuts deeply for Evelyn, who feels like she's been stripped
of her identity, her love for men, seemingly erasing the
entirety of her relationship with Celia. Monique presses Evelyn with
a question that has been lingering in her mind. Did
Evelyn ever confront Celia about the hurtful things she said specifically,
did she ever address Celia's cruel accusations. Evelyn, with a
(24:39):
quiet reflection, admits that there was a grain of truth
to Celia's words, that, yes, she had used her sexuality
to climb the ladder of Hollywood. But Evelyn's response is
not one of defensiveness. Instead, she acknowledges the harsh reality
of her choices. She explains that in the cutthroat world
she was navigating, sex was often her only leverage, which
(25:00):
the one thing she could control when everything else seemed
out of reach. It wasn't about manipulation, but survival. Her success,
Evelyn admits, came with compromises, and Celia's accusations, though painful,
were rooted in a truth that Evelyn couldn't entirely deny.
Later on, Evelyn, Celia, Harry, and John share a rare
(25:21):
moment of joy as they celebrate Evelyn's birthday together, all
four of them on a double date. It's a night
of laughter, warmth, and camaraderie, a fleeting glimpse into the
life that Evelyn has built with the people she holds
closest to her heart. Amid the celebration, Harry turns to
Evelyn with a more serious question, one that catches her
off guard. He asks if she's ready to have a
(25:43):
baby with him. After a pause, Evelyn, reflecting on the
years that have passed, feels a sense of readiness she
hadn't expected. She agrees, and together they make the decision
to start a family. A deeply emotional conversation unfolds between
Evelyn and Celia as they know navigate the decision to
have a child. Celia, conflicted, initially hesitates. She's never wanted
(26:06):
children and fears that her inability to give Evelyn a
baby might somehow make her feel incomplete. It's a vulnerable
moment for Celia as she grapples with the idea of
being unable to fulfill what Evelyn might want despite all
the love they share. Evelyn, sensing her partner's insecurities, reassures
Celia with heartfelt words, assuring her that she is more
(26:27):
than enough. Their connection transcends the need for biological ties.
Evelyn emphasizes that the love they share is the foundation
of everything, and it's this love that makes Celia enough
for her no matter what. With that, Celia ultimately agrees
to allow Evelyn to have the baby with Harry. Their
decision underscored by the depth of their bond. Later, as
(26:50):
they move beyond the conversation, Evelyn reflects on how in
giving herself to her, Celia has already given her everything
she ever needed. Later on, Evelyn and Harry's life together
takes on a new depth as they embrace the joys
and challenges of parent Their daughter, Connor, becomes the center
of their world, and in raising her together, their bond
(27:10):
as parents strengthens immeasurably. For Evelyn, it's a profound moment
of transformation. Finally, she feels as though she has what
she's longed for, a real family. She revels in the
role of wife and mother, the love she shares with
Harry and their daughter creating a sense of fulfillment she'd
never experienced before. While Harry and John continue to live separately,
(27:35):
Evelyn and Celia's home becomes a loving sanctuary for Connor,
where the child is surrounded by the care and support
of both mothers. Harry, though, is a frequent visitor, ensuring
he's always present for his daughter, and together they form
an unconventional but deeply meaningful family unit. Amidst this new
chapter of life, Celia encourages Evelyn to take a role
(27:57):
in Max's upcoming film Three a m a role that
was initially offered to Celia herself. Celia's motivation is clear.
After becoming a mother, Evelyn needs to take a role
that asserts her identity beyond the confines of motherhood. She
believes Evelyn should embrace a more sensual character to show
the world she's still the star she once was not
(28:18):
justified by her role as a mother. Evelyn, grateful for
Celia's support and guidance, accepts the role despite the fact
that her costar will be none other than Don. Her
past nemesis, Monique, presses Evelyn on a difficult question, why
did she agree to take the role in three Am
knowing that her former abuser Don would be her co star.
(28:39):
Evelyn's response is measured but deeply revealing. She admits that
the decision was complicated, layered with emotions and history. Don, wants,
a powerful and threatening figure in her life, was now
in a decline. His once dominant position had crumbled, and
Evelyn no longer saw him as the man who could
control her. In fact, she felt empowered by the shift
(29:01):
in their dynamics. She had the upper hand. Now she
could face him without fear. That without the weight of
his abuse looming over her, she felt that she had
nothing to lose. No longer shackled by the past, Evelyn
and Don meet for a simple sandwich, a moment that
is far from ordinary given their tumultuous past. The conversation
begins with Don offering a swift apology for everything he's done,
(29:24):
but Evelyn isn't convinced. She tells him that words alone,
no matter how sincere can't erase the damage he caused.
His apology falls short, and the rawness of their history
hangs in the air. However, Don doesn't stop at a
mere apology. He digs deeper, offering a heartfelt explanation that
takes full responsibility for his past actions. His willingness to
(29:47):
confront the truth of his behavior and the pain it
caused Evelyn catches her off guard. This shift in Don's demeanor,
his acceptance of responsibility, opens the door for a subtle
change in their dynamic. While the damage of their history
can't be undone, Evelyn softens toward him. She's not ready
to welcome him back into her life as a friend,
(30:08):
but she acknowledges that they can move forward with a
certain civility, no longer as enemies, but as two people
who have come to terms with the past. They can
be friendly, but not friends. It's a small, yet significant
step in their complicated relationship. The scene opens with Evelyn, Celia, Harry, John,
and Connor enjoying a peaceful family picnic. The sun shines
(30:31):
down on them as they share a rare moment of
simple joy. Surrounded by the warmth of each other's company.
The day feels perfect, an idyllic snapshot of the family
Evelyn has always longed for. They laugh, eat, and bask
in the togetherness that has often eluded them. But as
the day unfolds, Evelyn's mind shifts to a darker reflection.
(30:52):
Despite the happiness surrounding her, she knows that this moment
is fleeting. She can feel it in her bones that
this is one of the last time they will all
be together sharing such care free happiness. It's a bittersweet realization,
and Evelyn can't help but feel the weight of what's
to come. In a rare moment of vulnerability, she admits
(31:12):
that everything she's built, the love, the relationships, the family,
was ruined because of her actions after this day, the
feeling of impending loss hangs heavily in the air as
Evelyn grapples with the consequences of her past choices. Evelyn
throws herself into her role in Three Am, working tirelessly
on set. The demands of the film seem endless, and
(31:34):
her absence from home grows, prompting her to apologize to
Celia repeatedly. She knows the toll it's taking on their relationship,
but the movie is consuming her both physically and emotionally.
Then a conversation with Max shakes her. He suggests that
the film would benefit from showing a genuine, raw depiction
of sexual pleasure when her character is intimate with Don's character. Evelyn, ever,
(31:59):
the professional, agrees, understanding the significance of portraying a woman's
pleasure on screen, especially in an era where such things
are still taboo. She's determined to give her all to
the role, but in her heart, she knows she's not
being transparent with Celia. She tells herself she should have
told Celia about the scene beforehand, but it's too late now.
(32:21):
As she films the scene, Evelyn releases herself fully, giving
Max exactly what he's asked for. The scene is raw
and powerful, but once the camera stops rolling, Evelyn is
consumed by guilt. She cries, feeling the weight of the
betrayal to Celia. This was more than just a professional decision.
It was deeply personal, and Evelyn knows it. When she
(32:44):
returns home, she approaches Celia, seeking forgiveness and asking for
permission to have filmed the scene, but Celia, devastated by
the news, says she could never bear the thought of
Evelyn sharing herself with anyone else like that. In a
heart wrenching moment, Celia eves. Evelyn, in a panic, searches
for Celia, tracking her down. In a desperate attempt to
(33:06):
make things right, she begs Celia to return, promising to
quit acting altogether if that's what it takes to repair
their relationship, but Celia, with a painful clarity, tells Evelyn
that she knows she could never give up acting. She's
come to terms with the fact that Evelyn can never
fully belong to anyone, least of all her. Monique, still
(33:26):
processing Evelyn's tumultuous journey, asks the inevitable question, was Evelyn's
relationship with Celia truly over. Evelyn doesn't hesitate to answer
it is, and the weight of that truth hangs heavily
in the air. Monique, ever curious, probes further, asking Evelyn
if all the pain and sacrifice was worth it. Evelyn's
response is immediate and laden with regret. No. She acknowledges
(33:50):
that Don may have won an Oscar for his performance
in three Am, but in the process she lost something
much more precious, the respect of the public. Her portrayal
in the film Too Sexual for the Time left her
labeled in ways that haunted her career and her heart. Monique,
who has been carefully listening, picks up on the thread
of resentment that still lingers in Evelyn's words. She points
(34:14):
out that Evelyn seems to still carry a anger over
how the world treated her after the film's release. The
truth is painful. The public's harsh judgment was a blow
Evelyn never quite recovered from. The conversation shifts to a
more personal and sensitive topic, Evelyn's bisexuality. Monique wonders aloud
if this aspect of Evelyn's identity created even more strain
(34:36):
in her relationship with Celia. Did her sexual relationships with
men play a part in the unraveling of their bond,
Evelyn's response is blunt. While she insists that her relationship
with Celia faltered not because of her bisexuality, but because
of her relentless obsession with fame, she acknowledges that she
used her body as a tool to further her career,
(34:59):
a habit she couldn't It wasn't about cheating on Celia,
but about a deep, consuming need to keep pushing forward,
no matter the cost to her personal life. Evelyn's words
come with a raw vulnerability as she admits something she's
never openly said before. She's not a good person. There's
an undeniable sadness in her confession, and Monique, sensing her discomfort,
(35:22):
pushes back, but Evelyn remains resolute, explaining that in time,
Monique will see things the way she does. She's convinced
that the layers of her story, once fully uncovered, will
paint a picture that leaves no room for redemption. The
sudden death of John, Harry's longtime partner, shakes their world
to its core. John dies unexpectedly from a heart attack,
(35:43):
and the grief that follows is unbearable for Harry. He
retreats into himself consumed by sorrow, drinking heavily and locking
himself away in bed. This loss is more than just
a personal tragedy for Harry. It's a wound that no
one seems to understand, least of all the public, who
only view John as a friend of Harry's. But Evelyn,
(36:04):
being close to Harry, sees the depth of his grief.
She knows that Harry's sorrow goes far beyond what anyone
else can fathom. In the wake of John's death, Evelyn, Harry, Connor,
and Celia attend the funeral. The scene is heavy, filled
with unspoken emotions, and yet Evelyn and Celia remain distant, silent,
even in the shared space of mourning. There's a gulf
(36:26):
between them, one that no one speaks of, but that
both women feel deeply. Celia and Evelyn don't exchange a
single word, their once close bond now strained and fragile.
As they gather, there's an odd moment of recognition for Connor, who,
despite the family's current brokenness, somehow identifies Celia not from
their real life interactions, but from her portrayal of Beth
(36:49):
in Little Women. It's a strange, bittersweet reminder of how
far the world has moved from the intimacy they once shared,
and how much of Celia's life, especially her career, has
been captured and remembered by the public in ways that
don't quite align with the people she truly is. In
the wake of all this, Evelyn reflects on the state
of her own family. She realizes that what once felt
(37:13):
like a picture of closeness and stability has crumbled away.
The threads that once bound them together have frayed beyond repair.
Her family has disintegrated in a way that feels irreversible,
leaving Evelyn to confront the wreckage of her personal life.
In the midst of this grief, an article in now
This emerges, revealing that Celia has been spending an increasing
(37:36):
amount of time with another actress, Joan Marker. As Evelyn
grapples with her own isolation and the unspoken tension with Celia,
she is forced to reckon with the reality of what
remains of her once tightly knit family. The funeral, the grief,
and the quiet yet palpable distance between the women all
contribute to a sense of finality, a point of no
(37:57):
return for their once intimate relationships. Harry is trapped in
the depths of his grief, unable to escape the heavy
weight of his emotions following John's death. The only things
that seem to break through the fog of sorrow are
the love he has for his daughter Connor and the
solace he finds in his work. Seeing how much Harry
(38:17):
is struggling, Evelyn takes matters into her own hands and
helps him find a project that can reignite his passion
All for Us, a film that they can both work
on together. The film offers Harry a much needed distraction,
and it becomes a lifeline for him, something to pour
his energy into rather than drowning in the sadness of
(38:38):
his personal life. As they work on the film, both
Evelyn and Harry find themselves back at the top of
their game. The project becomes a success, and both of
them earn Oscars for their performances. Max, the director of
the film, also wins an Oscar for Best Director, marking
a triumphant moment for all involved. The night is filled
(38:59):
with celebration, but for Evelyn it carries a deeper, more
personal significance. As she steps up to accept her award,
she makes sure to include a subtle, yet powerful tribute
to Celia. Though their relationship is strained and they remain apart,
Evelyn wants Celia to know that she still loves her.
In her acceptance speech, she alludes to Celia a moment
(39:21):
that echoes her long held affection and serves as a
reminder of the love they once shared. After the whirlwind
of their Oscar wins, Evelyn and Max share a rare,
light hearted moment away from the glitz and glamour of Hollywood. Max,
eager to escape the intensity of the awards night, suggests
they grab some hamburgers together, a simple, almost rebellious act
(39:43):
in contrast to their usual world of luxury. They head
to a Jack in the Box, but when their limo
can't fit through the drive through, they decide to go inside.
It's an odd, yet endearing sight Evelyn in her Oscar
worthy ball gown walking into a fast food joint, a
stark contrast to the usual scenes of red carpets and
elite parties. However, their attempt at normalcy quickly turns chaotic
(40:06):
as soon as they step inside. The surprise of seeing
a Hollywood star dressed in such an extravagant outfit sends
the crowd into a frenzy fans mob. Evelyn, shocked and
excited by the unexpected encounter in the midst of the crowd,
Max acts quickly, rushing to her side and lifting her up,
literally rescuing her from the overwhelming attention. He carries her
(40:29):
back to the safety of the limo, a chivalrous act
that feels almost like a scene out of a fairy tale.
As they sit together, their emotions shift. The warmth of
the moment, the relief from the chaos, and the lingering
connection between them lead to something more intimate. Max, filled
with emotion and a surge of affection, kisses Evelyn and
(40:50):
confesses his love for her. For Evelyn, it's a bittersweet moment,
one that brings a sense of relief and longing. She
hasn't felt desired in a long time, and Max's confession
stirs something deep inside her. It's a fleeting, yet powerful
feeling of being wanted, something she's craved but never fully
received in her past relationships. The following morning, Evelyn wakes
(41:12):
up to a more significant gesture. Max, still caught up
in the emotions of the night before, sends her two
dozen roses along with a marriage proposal. The grandeur of
the gesture is as intense as the connection they've shared,
and Evelyn finds herself at a crossroads once again.
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