Essex County

Essex County follows the intertwined lives of two rural families, while exploring the generational impact of loss, betrayal, and trauma, and how redemption and hope are found through human connection.

Eleven-year-old Lester grapples with his mother’s death, and finds out his long-absent dad may be closer than he knew. Anne takes on caring for her estranged uncle Lou, who is haunted by his past.

Ken doubts his ability to care for Lester, while Lester develops a new bond with Jimmy. Lou resents his loss of independence, and against Anne’s wishes, ventures into town with disastrous consequences.

When Lester tells his dad he wants to live with him, Jimmy starts to dream big and asks Anne for support. Lou destroys reminders of old heartbreaks and tells Anne the secret he has kept for decades.

Lester runs away from the farm, but Jimmy struggles to be there when Lester needs him most. Ken makes demands so he can get on with his life. Cheered on by his old pals, Lou escapes his care home.

Anne visits her daughter at university, where old ambitions are reignited. Ken gets news that makes the future more settled. Lester realizes he is not alone in his grief, and Lou searches for peace.