Harvey (1996)

Sorry, we aren't able to watch and write up a full detailed plot yet. Check back in a few days.

In the ending of the 1996 film "Harvey," Elwood P. Dowd, played by Jimmy Stewart, faces the decision of whether to stay in a mental institution or return to his life with his imaginary friend, Harvey, a six-foot-tall rabbit. Ultimately, Elwood chooses to embrace his unique perspective on life, and the film concludes with a sense of acceptance and understanding from those around him.

As the final scenes unfold, Dr. Chumley, the head of the mental institution, begins to see the value in Elwood's worldview. After a series of events that lead to a deeper understanding of Elwood's character, Dr. Chumley decides to let him go. Elwood's sister, Veta, who initially sought to have him committed, comes to terms with her brother's happiness and the importance of his friendship with Harvey. The film ends with Elwood walking out of the institution, ready to continue his life with Harvey by his side, leaving the audience with a sense of hope and the idea that embracing one's imagination can lead to a more fulfilling life.

Now, let's delve into the ending in a more detailed, chronological narrative.

As the climax of the film approaches, Elwood P. Dowd finds himself in the mental institution, where he has been committed by his sister, Veta Louise Dowd, played by Swoosie Kurtz. Veta, initially frantic and desperate to rid her life of Elwood's eccentricities, has come to realize that her brother's unique perspective on life is not something to be ashamed of, but rather something to cherish.

In the institution, Elwood remains calm and cheerful, engaging with the staff and other patients as if they were all part of a grand social gathering. His unwavering belief in Harvey, the invisible rabbit, continues to perplex and amuse those around him. Dr. Chumley, the head psychiatrist, portrayed by Charles Durning, is initially skeptical of Elwood's claims about Harvey. However, as he interacts with Elwood, he begins to see the joy and comfort that Elwood derives from his friendship with the imaginary rabbit.

In a pivotal scene, Dr. Chumley decides to take Elwood for a walk outside the institution. During this outing, Elwood shares stories about his life and his friendship with Harvey, revealing his deep-seated kindness and the way he sees the world. The audience witnesses Elwood's genuine warmth and the way he connects with others, even in a place designed to separate them from society.

Meanwhile, Veta is grappling with her own feelings of guilt and confusion. She realizes that her attempts to control Elwood's life have only pushed him further away. In a moment of clarity, she visits Dr. Chumley to discuss her brother's fate. She expresses her desire to understand Elwood better and to accept him for who he is, rather than trying to change him.

As the story reaches its resolution, Dr. Chumley has a transformative moment. He begins to understand that Elwood's happiness and his bond with Harvey are not signs of madness, but rather a unique way of experiencing life. This realization culminates in a scene where Dr. Chumley decides to release Elwood from the institution, recognizing that he is not a danger to himself or others.

In the final moments of the film, Elwood is seen leaving the institution, a serene smile on his face as he walks alongside Harvey, who remains invisible to everyone else. Veta, now supportive and accepting, stands by her brother, having come to terms with her own fears and insecurities. The film closes with Elwood's gentle reminder to the audience about the importance of imagination and kindness, as he walks into the world with Harvey at his side, ready to embrace whatever comes next.

The fate of each main character is clear: Elwood is free to continue his life with Harvey, Veta has learned to accept her brother's uniqueness, and Dr. Chumley has undergone a significant change in perspective, embracing the idea that happiness can come from unexpected places. The film ends on a hopeful note, emphasizing the value of friendship, acceptance, and the beauty of seeing the world through a different lens.

The 1996 film "Harvey," starring Jimmy Stewart as Elwood P. Dowd, does not have a post-credit scene. The film concludes with Elwood's heartfelt interactions and the resolution of his relationship with his imaginary friend, Harvey, a six-foot-tall rabbit. The story wraps up with a sense of acceptance and understanding, leaving the audience with the warmth of Elwood's character and his unique perspective on life. The film ends on a poignant note, emphasizing themes of friendship and the importance of seeing the world through a lens of kindness and imagination.

Harvey is a six-foot-tall invisible rabbit who serves as Elwood P. Dowd's best friend and companion. He represents Elwood's unique perspective on life, embodying his whimsical nature and the comfort he finds in his imaginary friend. Harvey's presence allows Elwood to navigate social situations with a sense of ease, despite the judgment of others.

Elwood's family, particularly his sister Veta, is deeply concerned about his friendship with Harvey. Veta believes that Elwood's relationship with the invisible rabbit is a sign of mental instability, which prompts her to seek help from a psychiatrist. Her worry stems from a desire to protect Elwood and restore what she perceives as normalcy in their lives.

Dr. Chumley is the psychiatrist who becomes involved in the situation surrounding Elwood and Harvey. Initially, he is skeptical of Elwood's claims about Harvey, but as the story unfolds, he becomes increasingly intrigued by Elwood's perspective. Dr. Chumley's character represents the conflict between societal norms and the acceptance of individuality, as he grapples with his own understanding of sanity.

Veta begins the film viewing Harvey as a detrimental influence on Elwood, believing that he is the cause of her brother's social difficulties. However, as the story progresses, she starts to see the positive impact Harvey has on Elwood's happiness and well-being. This shift in perception leads Veta to reconsider her own values and the importance of imagination and companionship.

The climax occurs when Elwood is taken to the sanitarium after Veta's insistence that he needs help. In a pivotal scene, Elwood's calm demeanor and genuine belief in Harvey's existence challenge the perceptions of those around him, including Dr. Chumley. This moment highlights the tension between reality and imagination, ultimately leading to a deeper understanding of Elwood's character and the significance of his bond with Harvey.

The 1996 film "Harvey," a remake of the classic story, is generally considered family-friendly, but there are a few elements that might be potentially objectionable or upsetting for children or sensitive viewers.

1. Mental Health Themes: The film explores themes of mental health, including the stigma surrounding it. Characters discuss and confront issues related to sanity and perception, which may be confusing or distressing for younger audiences.

2. Institutionalization: There are scenes involving a mental health facility where characters are treated, which may be unsettling for some viewers. The portrayal of the institution and the discussions about commitment can evoke feelings of fear or anxiety.

3. Family Conflict: The film includes moments of tension and conflict within the family, particularly regarding the protagonist's relationship with his sister. This may resonate with viewers who have experienced similar familial struggles.

4. Existential Questions: The character of Elwood P. Dowd, who believes in the existence of an invisible rabbit named Harvey, raises questions about reality and belief that might be challenging for younger viewers to grasp.

5. Alcohol References: There are subtle references to alcohol consumption, which may not be suitable for all children, depending on their age and understanding.

Overall, while the film carries a whimsical and heartwarming tone, these elements may require parental guidance for younger viewers.