HOWARDS END (1992) PG, 2h 2min

The final film in our popular Merchant Ivory luncheon series is HOWARDS END. A masterful adaptation of E.M. Forster’s novel, Howards End is a sweeping tale of love, class struggles, and societal change in early 20th-century Britain. Featuring exceptional performances and exquisite period detail, this Merchant Ivory classic is one of their finest achievements.

The story follows the lives of two families—the intellectual and idealistic Schlegels and the wealthy, conservative Wilcoxes—whose fates become intertwined through romance, friendship, and the ownership of the cherished estate, Howards End. When Helen Schlegel’s brief romance with Paul Wilcox ends abruptly, her sister Margaret unexpectedly forms a deep bond with his mother, Ruth Wilcox. On her deathbed, Ruth bequeaths Howards End to Margaret, recognizing her as a kindred spirit. But when the will mysteriously vanishes, the inheritance seems lost—until Henry Wilcox, now widowed, finds himself drawn to Margaret, setting the stage for shifting alliances, hidden secrets, and profound reckonings.

With its rich storytelling, stunning cinematography, and deeply moving performances, Howards End remains a timeless and powerful exploration of class, privilege, and the search for connection in a rapidly changing world.

“From start to finish, Howards End is a sumptuous visual delight. But the beauty of this film is far more than skin deep.”
– Jeff Menell, The Hollywood Reporter

“Deeply romantic, political, emotion-led, respectful of music and literature, impeccably dressed and, in one of the characters’ own words, “overexpressive”.”
– Simran Hans, Observer (UK)

Join us for lunch at 12:30. Film at 1:00.

Tickets: Lunch & Film, Members - $13, Non-members - $17. Film Only, Members - $8, Non-members - $12.

No reservations required. Box Office opens at 12:00.