Florence Cathcart is a rationalist and debunker of supernatural phenomena, who is invited to the boarding school by the headmaster, Robert Mallory (West). The school is haunted by the ghost of a boy named Walter, who was said to have drowned in a nearby lake.
Florence begins her investigation, using her scientific methods to try and explain the sightings of the ghost. However, as she delves deeper into the mystery, she begins to experience strange occurrences herself, including vivid dreams and unexplained noises.
As Florence uncovers the truth about Walter's death, she realizes that there is more to the haunting than meets the eye. The film explores themes of grief, loss, and the impact of war on the human psyche.
Ultimately, Florence must confront her own demons and come to terms with her own past in order to solve the mystery of Walter's ghost and bring peace to the school. The Awakening is a haunting and atmospheric film that blurs the lines between the supernatural and the psychological.