Directed by
Joey Power
Made by
Good Deed Entertainment
Read the complete plot summary and ending explained for After Everything (2018). From turning points to emotional moments, uncover what really happened and why it matters.
Elliott, a 23-year-old man portrayed by Jeremy Allen White, finds himself facing a daunting diagnosis of Ewing sarcoma, a rare form of bone cancer that he initially confuses with a sexually transmitted disease. His journey begins when he strikes up a connection with Mia, played by Maika Monroe, at a New York City sandwich shop where they both work. During their first date, Elliott bravely shares his diagnosis with Mia, laying a strong foundation for their relationship as they embark on a romantic journey together.
As their bond deepens, Mia supports Elliott through the challenges of his illness, traveling with him to New Jersey to inform his parents about his condition. With unwavering commitment, she even leaves her marketing job to be by his side as he undergoes difficult chemotherapy treatments, which take a toll on both his physical and mental health. Meanwhile, tension arises as Elliott starts to drift away from his best friend and roommate, Nico, played by DeRon Horton. When chemotherapy fails to work as hoped, Elliott faces surgery with a slim chance of success. In what could be their final days together, they take on exciting activities from Elliott’s bucket list and decide to marry quickly before his operation.
Miraculously, Elliott survives the surgery, and his cancer enters remission. Four months later, he and Mia have moved in together, where Elliott begins studying software design and Mia finds a new job that she loves. However, as they settle into their marriage, they begin to face challenges brought on by their familiarity with each other. A visit to Mia’s mother, Tracy, portrayed by Gina Gershon, introduces doubts about their marriage’s long-term prospects. Tensions mount when Mia opts to skip Elliott’s vital cancer screening for a work presentation, leaving him feeling unsupported. To cope with his feelings of distance from Mia, Elliott joins a support group for cancer survivors, leading to further separation between them. As Elliott reconnects with Nico and flirts with women, Mia finds herself drawn to her boss, David, played by Sendhil Ramamurthy.
An accidental call reveals Elliott’s night out with Nico and other women, prompting an emotional confrontation with Mia, who pleads for them to mend their relationship. Unfortunately, Elliott harshly admits that their marriage may not have happened without his illness, devastating Mia. Seeking comfort, she shares a kiss with David.
As the days pass, Elliott and Mia decide to separate, and Elliott moves out of their shared apartment, abandoning his aspirations in software to return to his old job at the sandwich shop. In the midst of their breakup, Mia resolves not to pursue a relationship with David and struggles with the complexities of dating while still coping with her feelings for Elliott. Meanwhile, Elliott grapples with his own dating challenges. In a moment of vulnerability, he reaches out to Mia, and they agree to meet to discuss their future. During this heartfelt reunion, Elliott apologizes for his earlier words and expresses a desire to reconcile, but Mia, while still loving him, asks for a divorce, feeling uncertain about their compatibility. Elliott acquiesces but wishes to remain friends.
In a poignant moment, they share a kiss and try to part ways, only to discover that they are both headed to the same subway station, granting them a chance to reflect on the memories they created together.
Follow the complete movie timeline of After Everything (2018) with every major event in chronological order. Great for understanding complex plots and story progression.
Elliott's Diagnosis
At just 23 years old, Elliott receives a shocking diagnosis of Ewing sarcoma, a rare and aggressive type of bone cancer. Initially mistaking his symptoms for something less serious, he is forced to confront the reality of his health condition and its potential impact on his future.
First Date Revelation
During an intimate first date with Mia, a young woman he met in a subway station, Elliott reveals the heartbreaking news of his cancer diagnosis. This candid conversation marks a significant moment in their budding relationship, deepening their connection amidst such difficult circumstances.
Sharing the News
Mia accompanies Elliott to New Jersey where he bravely tells his parents about his illness. This moment solidifies Mia’s role as a supportive partner, as she stands by Elliott during this harrowing time.
Support Through Treatment
Throughout Elliott's challenging chemotherapy treatments, Mia proves her commitment by quitting her job to be by his side. As Elliott’s physical and mental health decline, their relationship is put to the ultimate test.
Climbing the Bucket List
Faced with the grim reality of his illness, Elliott and Mia embark on a journey to fulfill items on Elliott’s bucket list. This phase of their relationship is filled with both joy and sorrow, as they make memories while grappling with the implications of his condition.
Marriage Before Surgery
Before undergoing a risky surgery to combat his cancer, Elliott and Mia decide to marry in a simple ceremony. This decision reflects their wish to solidify their bond in the face of uncertainty, highlighting the urgency created by his health crisis.
Post-Surgery Remission
Elliott successfully survives the surgery, entering remission with hope for a new beginning. Just four months after the operation, he and Mia move in together, eager to start a life free from the shadow of his disease.
New Beginnings
As they settle into their new life, Elliott begins classes in software design while Mia finds a new and fulfilling job. Their initial happiness, however, begins to wane as the realities of marriage and everyday life set in.
Marriage Struggles
As familiarity breeds tension, Elliott and Mia start facing issues in their relationship. Influenced by her mother's skepticism regarding their marriage, Mia begins to question whether their love can withstand the trials they face.
Elliott's Isolation
Elliott begins to drift away from Mia, attending group therapy sessions and reconnecting with friends, particularly Nico. Distancing himself from Mia, he flirts with other women while Mia develops feelings for her boss, David.
Confrontation at the Bar
A painful confrontation occurs when Mia overhears a careless phone call between Elliott and Nico at a bar. The awareness of his infidelities forces Mia to face the fragility of their relationship, prompting an emotional plea to repair their bond.
Separation
After a month of escalating tensions, Elliott and Mia decide to separate. Elliott moves back to his old life, taking a drastic step back as he gives up on pursuing a career in software design and returns to his job at the sandwich shop.
Discussion About Their Future
Elliott and Mia agree to meet and discuss the future of their marriage. Elliott expresses his desire to reconcile, admitting his wrongdoings, but Mia reveals her uncertainty and ultimately asks for a divorce, recognizing that love alone isn't enough.
Final Farewell
As they share one last kiss and prepare to part ways, Elliott and Mia discover they are heading towards the same subway station. This unexpected coincidence allows them a bittersweet moment to reminisce, acknowledging their shared history one final time.
Explore all characters from After Everything (2018). Get detailed profiles with their roles, arcs, and key relationships explained.
Elliott (Joe Keery)
Elliott is a young man facing the devastating impact of cancer, navigating the complexities of a diagnosis that shapes his relationships. His character exhibits resilience and vulnerability, grappling with both physical pain and emotional turmoil. As he evolves from a hopeful partner to a distant individual, his journey reflects the struggles of accepting change and the effects of illness on personal connections.
Mia (Maika Monroe)
Mia is a compassionate and supportive partner who dedicates herself to Elliott during his illness. As she balances her own career aspirations with her role as a caretaker, Mia's character illustrates the emotional challenges of caregiving and the weight of personal sacrifice. Her growth throughout the film highlights the struggle to find one's identity amidst love and hardship.
Nico (DeRon Horton)
Nico is Elliott's best friend and roommate, representing a source of support but also a contrasting perspective on friendship during times of crisis. His character highlights themes of loyalty and the challenges that arise when facing overwhelming personal circumstances. As Elliott distances himself, Nico's presence serves as a reminder of the importance of maintaining friendships even in difficult times.
Tracy (Gina Gershon)
Tracy, Mia's mother, plays a pivotal role in influencing Mia's perspective on her relationship with Elliott. Her skepticism regarding their marriage introduces external conflict that challenges Mia's feelings and decisions. As a maternal figure, Tracy represents the voice of caution, often reminding her daughter of the realities of love and partnership.
David (Sendhil Ramamurthy)
David is Mia's boss, and his presence in the narrative adds tension as Mia wrestles with her feelings for him while supporting Elliott. He symbolizes the allure of new experiences and the potential for emotional connection outside of her marriage. David’s character explores the theme of attraction and the complexity of relationships during challenging times.
Learn where and when After Everything (2018) takes place. Explore the film’s settings, era, and how they shape the narrative.
Time period
The events of the movie appear to be set in contemporary times, reflective of modern-day urban life and societal issues, such as dealing with health crises and the challenges of relationships. This time period highlights advancements in medical understanding and the complexities of personal relationships in the 21st century.
Location
New York City, New Jersey
The movie primarily takes place in New York City, known for its vibrant urban lifestyle and diverse culture. It features key locations like a sandwich shop and subway stations, symbolizing everyday life. The story also extends to New Jersey, representing a quieter, suburban setting where familial connections are explored.
Discover the main themes in After Everything (2018). Analyze the deeper meanings, emotional layers, and social commentary behind the film.
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Love & Loss
The film explores the theme of love amidst adversity as Elliott and Mia navigate their relationship through the challenges of cancer treatment. Their bond is tested by uncertainty and emotional strain, ultimately leading to questions about the foundation of their love. The theme emphasizes the transient nature of relationships and the enduring impact of experiences shared during hardship.
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Mental Health
Mental health is a prominent theme as Elliott deals with the psychological effects of his cancer diagnosis and treatment. The movie illustrates the importance of therapy and support systems in coping with traumatic experiences. Mia's struggles with her own mental well-being as she supports Elliott highlight the toll that caregiving can take on personal mental health.
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Change & Growth
The narrative showcases significant changes in both Elliott and Mia's lives as they face health challenges and their evolving relationship. Each character undergoes personal growth, reflecting on their goals, desires, and the dynamics of their marriage. The theme of change is evident in their decision-making and the realization that love can take different forms over time.
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