Logo What's After the Movie

Test your knowledge of Absence with our quiz!

Plot Summary

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


Expectant mother Liz, played by Erin Way, awakens one morning to a shocking reality: her nearly full-term pregnancy has mysteriously vanished overnight. In searching for answers, doctors are baffled and unable to provide any medical explanation for this bewildering loss. As the investigation unfolds, the police quickly zero in on Liz and her husband Rick, portrayed by Eric Matheny, as primary suspects in a case that has spiraled into a missing child investigation, raising grave concerns about a possible late-stage abortion.

However, Liz’s brother, Evan, depicted by Ryan Smale, remains steadfast in his belief in her innocence, becoming one of the few who truly trust her account of events. As rumors and suspicions spread, the young couple faces the burden of unwanted scrutiny from both the police and nosy neighbors. To help lift Liz’s spirits amid the chaos, Rick and Evan arrange a getaway to the serene mountains, hoping that a change of scenery might soothe her heartache.

During this respite, Evan forms a connection with a local girl named Megan, played by Stephanie Scholz, and moments of laughter and joy begin to emerge amid the tension. Yet, as Evan continues to document their experiences in the mountains, ominous and troubling patterns begin to surface. Despite his efforts to capture Liz’s story, her unanswered questions about her baby’s disappearance only serve to deepen the mystery.

As her emotional and physical condition deteriorates, the trio realizes the unsettling truth: something profoundly troubling lingers in the air regarding Liz and her baby. When their vacation swiftly descends into chaos, it becomes painfully clear that the harrowing ordeal they thought was behind them is far from over. Now, the question looms large: are any of them truly safe? The journey continues as they confront the chilling reality that shadows their lives.

Timeline

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


Liz Discovers Pregnancy Disappearance

Expectant mother Liz wakes up to a shocking realization: her nearly-to-term pregnancy has vanished overnight. This unexpected turn of events leaves her confused and distressed, prompting an immediate need for answers.

Doctors' Inability to Explain

After seeking medical assistance, doctors are baffled by Liz's condition and are unable to provide any medical explanation for the loss of her pregnancy. This uncertainty leads to escalating tension and fear for Liz and her husband, Rick.

Police Investigation Begins

As the situation unfolds, the police begin treating Liz and Rick as prime suspects in what they suspect could either be a missing child case or even a late-stage abortion. The couple faces intense scrutiny at a time of profound personal crisis.

Evan's Support and Trust

While many doubt Liz's story, her brother Evan remains one of the few who believes her version of events. Showing his dedication, he begins documenting her experiences in an effort to support her and clear her name.

Unwanted Attention from Neighbors

As word about Liz's situation spreads throughout their community, the young couple faces unwanted attention and invasive curiosity from neighbors. This scrutiny intensifies their emotional distress during an already challenging time.

A Much-Needed Vacation

To help Liz cope with her grief, Rick and Evan take her on a vacation to the mountains. The change of scenery aims to elevate her spirits and provide a temporary escape from the mounting pressure and anguish.

mountains

Evan Meets Megan

During the vacation, Evan meets a local girl named Megan, and the two develop an immediate connection. This budding romance offers a glimmer of happiness amidst the turmoil surrounding Liz's situation.

mountains

Liz's Spirits Improve

With the fresh air and away from the scrutiny, Liz's spirits begin to improve, providing her with a brief respite from her ongoing nightmare. For a moment, the couple finds solace, believing that the vacation might help them heal.

mountains

Documenting the Vacation

As Evan continues documenting his family's vacation, he notices unusual patterns and behavior from Liz. His investigation offers a unique vantage point but raises unsettling questions about her state of well-being.

mountains

Declining Condition of Liz

Despite the temporary break, Evan and Rick are increasingly alarmed by Liz's declining condition over the course of the trip. Physical and emotional distress lead them to realize that the issue is far from resolved.

mountains

Growing Concerns

As Liz's health continues to deteriorate, the trio can no longer ignore the gravity of the situation. A dark sense of foreboding settles over them, multiplying their fears and insecurities regarding what really happened with her pregnancy.

mountains

Trip Spirals Out of Control

The vacation takes a dark turn as the group's attempt to escape their previous troubles fails. With growing tensions and impending danger, the supportive space they sought crumbles into chaos.

mountains

Realization of Ongoing Danger

Amidst the turmoil, it becomes clear to Evan and Rick that whatever circumstances led to Liz's pregnancy loss are not over. They realize that their safety is threatened, and they must unravel the truth before it's too late.

Characters

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


Liz (Erin Way)

Liz is an expectant mother whose world unravels with the sudden disappearance of her pregnancy. She embodies a blend of vulnerability and resilience, combating societal scrutiny while desperately seeking answers. Her emotional turmoil drives the narrative, capturing the pain of loss and the mystery surrounding her situation.

👩‍🍼 Motherhood 😢 Grief ❓ Mystery

Rick (Eric Matheny)

Rick is Liz's supportive husband, struggling to cope with the shock of their situation. His loyalty to Liz is tested as they navigate public suspicion and personal grief. Despite his frustration and fear, he deeply cares for Liz and wants to help her heal, embodying the role of a steadfast partner.

❤️ Support 🛡️ Protector 😟 Concern

Evan (Ryan Smale)

Evan, Liz’s brother and a film student, is determined to document and support his sister during her ordeal. His passion for filmmaking reflects his youthful idealism as he tries to present Liz's side of the story. However, he too faces the challenge of confronting uncomfortable truths as the mystery deepens.

🎥 Filmmaker 📽️ Storyteller 👫 Family

Megan (Stephanie Scholz)

Megan is a local girl Evan encounters during the family's trip, providing a temporary distraction from the family's turmoil. Yet, her presence also serves as a reminder of normalcy amidst chaos. She represents the potential for new connections, even in trying times.

🌼 New Friend 💫 Hope 😊 Support

Setting

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


Time period

Although the exact time period is not specified, the contemporary setting allows for themes of modern parenting and societal pressures to take center stage. This era reflects current anxieties surrounding pregnancy, privacy, and personal rights, making the emotional struggles of the characters feel particularly relevant.

Location

Mountains

The mountains serve as a backdrop for the family's retreat, offering a serene yet isolating environment. Known for their natural beauty, they provide a stark contrast to the emotional turmoil that Liz is experiencing. The vacation spot is not just a picturesque getaway, but also a place where unresolved issues resurface.

🏔️ Mountains 🌲 Nature

Themes

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


🤰

Motherhood

The theme of motherhood runs deeply throughout the narrative, showcasing Liz's profound connection to her lost pregnancy. This connection highlights the emotional challenges and expectations placed on women during pregnancy. As she grapples with her loss, the theme underscores the societal pressures and stigmas surrounding motherhood.

📹

Documentary Truth

Evan's role as a film student emphasizes the theme of capturing truth through a lens. His attempts to document Liz’s experience represent a search for understanding and validation in a chaotic situation. The documentary angle serves as a narrative device, blurring the lines between reality and perception.

🔍

Mystery

The story is layered with mystery as the characters seek answers regarding Liz's inexplicable loss. The increasingly strange occurrences during their vacation raise tension and intrigue. This theme of mystery prompts the audience to question the nature of truth and the reliability of the characters' experiences.

Movies with Similar Twists and Themes

Uncover films that echo the narrative beats, emotional arcs, or dramatic twists of the one you're exploring. These recommendations are handpicked based on story depth, thematic resonance, and spoiler-worthy moments — perfect for fans who crave more of the same intrigue.


© 2025 What's After the Movie. All rights reserved.