How I Live Now 2013

Action

Drama

Thriller

War

Box Office

$926K

Runtime

101 min

Language

English

Directed by

Kevin Macdonald

Made by

Magnolia Pictures

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Plot Summary

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

A film adapted from the bestselling novel by Meg Rossoff, this story follows fifteen-year-old Elizabeth, who prefers the name Daisy. Sent by her father and stepmother to stay with her cousins—Osbert, Isaac, Edmond, and Piper—and her Aunt Penn in England, Daisy gradually forms deep connections with her relatives. Among them, she shares an especially unique bond with the semi-telepathic and bright Edmond, portrayed by George MacKay. As she immerses herself in the tranquil lifestyle of the English countryside, Daisy begins to feel a sense of belonging for the first time in her life.

However, the quietude is disrupted as whispers of impending conflict begin to surface, and Aunt Penn is dispatched to assist in the Peace Process. With her departure and eventual disappearance, the children are left without adult supervision, which allows Daisy and Edmond’s bond to evolve into something above mere cousinly affection. Their serene existence is violently interrupted by the emergence of World War III, leading to Daisy and Piper’s separation from Edmond, Isaac, and Osbert.

Now amidst hostile territories during the futuristic “occupation,” Daisy finds herself in a dire situation, desperately striving to bring her family back together amidst the chaos and destruction that threatens to tear them apart. After enduring horrific experiences and finally returning home with Piper, she discovers a traumatized Edmond, who has also come back. In her attempt to nurse him back to health, Daisy confronts the realities of their shattered lives, desperately clinging to hope in a world seemingly consumed by war.

Timeline

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

Daisy's Arrival in England

Fifteen-year-old Elizabeth, who prefers to be called Daisy, arrives in England to stay with her cousins and aunt. This marks the beginning of her journey as she tries to adapt to her new surroundings and family.

England

Building Connections

As Daisy settles in, she gradually forms deep connections with her cousins Osbert, Isaac, Edmond, and Piper. Among them, her bond with Edmond grows stronger, showcasing a unique and semi-telepathic relationship.

Cousins' home

Enjoying the English Countryside

Daisy embraces the tranquil lifestyle of the English countryside, which allows her to feel a sense of belonging for the first time in her life. This peaceful time strengthens her relationships with her relatives.

English countryside

Aunt Penn's Departure

Daisy's aunt, Penn, is called away to assist in a Peace Process, creating a void in the children's supervision. Her departure marks a turning point, leading to more independence for Daisy and her cousins.

Cousins' home

Evolving Affection

With the absence of adult guidance, Daisy and Edmond’s relationship deepens, evolving from cousinly affection into something more intense. Their bond becomes a sanctuary amid the unfolding chaos.

Cousins' home

World War III Erupts

The peaceful existence of Daisy and her cousins is shattered when whispers of World War III turn into a harsh reality. This moment signifies a drastic change, pushing the family into hostile territory.

Separation from Family

In the wake of the war, Daisy and Piper are separated from Edmond, Isaac, and Osbert. This separation heightens the tension and fear as they navigate through the increasingly dangerous landscape.

Survival in Hostile Territories

As Daisy finds herself amidst hostile territories during the occupation, she faces dire situations. The struggle for survival becomes paramount as she attempts to reunite her family.

Return to Safety

After enduring horrific experiences, Daisy finally manages to return home alongside Piper. This signifies a moment of relief, but it is quickly overshadowed by the looming aftermath of war.

Home

Reunion with Edmond

Daisy discovers that a traumatized Edmond has also returned home. Their reunion is bittersweet as they both grapple with the psychological scars inflicted by the war.

Home

Healing from Trauma

In the wake of their experiences, Daisy takes on the role of caregiver for Edmond, attempting to nurse him back to health. Their relationship continues to evolve as they confront their shattered lives together.

Home

Clinging to Hope

Despite the harsh realities of their world, Daisy clings to hope as she rebuilds her life alongside Edmond and Piper. Their bond represents a beacon of resilience in the face of overwhelming despair.

Characters

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

Daisy

Daisy, a fifteen-year-old girl who prefers her nickname, is a complex character navigating her emotions amid the chaos of war. Initially feeling disconnected from her surroundings, she gradually forms deep bonds with her cousins, particularly with Edmond. As the story unfolds, Daisy exhibits remarkable resilience and determination to protect her family during their harrowing experiences.

👧 Teenage 🩹 Resilient

Edmond (George MacKay)

Edmond is portrayed as a semi-telepathic and intelligent young man who forms a special bond with his cousin Daisy. His character embodies sensitivity and strength, evolving from a supportive figure to a key player in navigating the turmoil of their situation. Edmond's experiences during the occupation deeply affect him, adding layers of complexity to his relationship with Daisy.

🤝 Connection 🌌 Intuitive

Aunt Penn

Aunt Penn serves as the children's caretaker and plays a crucial role in their lives before the chaos unfolds. Her departure to assist in the Peace Process creates a vacuum that leads to the children's self-discovery and growth. Her disappearance becomes a pivotal moment that forces Daisy and her cousins to confront their vulnerabilities.

👩‍👧‍👦 Caregiver 🕊️ Peacekeeper

Setting

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

Time period

Futuristic, during World War III

The story unfolds in a futuristic time period marked by the onset of World War III. This era is characterized by political instability and conflict, forcing the characters to face harsh realities and creating a backdrop of urgency as they struggle to keep their family united amidst the chaos.

Location

England, English countryside

The setting of the film is primarily in the English countryside, known for its picturesque landscapes and tranquil way of life. This serene environment is sharply contrasted by the chaos of impending war, evoking a sense of both peace and vulnerability as the characters navigate their relationships and the surrounding turmoil.

🌳 Nature 🏡 Home

Themes

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

💔

Love & Loss

The film explores the themes of love and loss through Daisy and Edmond's deepening bond, set against the stark reality of war. Their relationship evolves from innocent cousinly affection to a profound emotional connection, showcasing the resilience of love in the face of adversity. As they confront the traumatic consequences of the war, their shared experiences reinforce the theme of hope amidst despair.

🌍

Survival

Survival is a pivotal theme in 'How I Live Now,' as the characters are thrust into a world of conflict where their lives are at stake. Daisy's determination to reunite her family reflects the instinctual drive for survival, highlighting the sacrifices and challenges individuals face during wartime. The struggle for safety and security amidst chaos underscores the human spirit's tenacity.

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