Archer's Voice

Content Warning: This section of the guide discusses depictions of domestic violence, attempted rape, molestation, gun violence, miscarriage, and violence against children.

Seven-year-old Archer Hale plays happily with his GI Joes. He makes helicopter sounds and wishes that he could make the helicopter real to take him and his “mama” away from his abusive father. His Uncle Connor, a policeman, comes in and asks about Archer’s mother, Alyssa. Archer says that she is not feeling well. They exchange a knowing look; Alyssa is in bed recovering because her husband has beat her. Connor tells Archer that he has his mother’s smile, and Archer says, dejectedly, that he looks like his father. 

Connor goes to talk to Alyssa, but Archer follows Connor upstairs. Archer overhears Connor reminding Alyssa that he cares about her romantically. Connor tells Alyssa that her husband is cheating on her, and that he wants to take her and Archer away. Alyssa asks about Connor’s wife, Tori, and their son, Travis. Alyssa says that Tori hates her and will get even. Connor assures her he will work it out, asking Alyssa if she wants to find happiness and be free.

There is silence and Archer speculates that they are kissing.