Young Alexander glimpses the supernatural before the scattered branches of his family gather at his grandmother's house for a traditional Christmas party. Contains the Prologue and the First Act (The Ekhdal Family Celebrates Christmas).

Alexander's family is torn apart by the death of his father and his mother's subsequent marriage to the icy priest Edvard Vergérus. Fanny and Alexander continue to suffer at the hands of their cruel stepfather while a series of ghosts pay visits to the living. Contains the Second Act (The Wraith) and the Third Act (The Breakup).

Alexander makes up a story about his stepfather for which he gets brutally punished. Meanwhile Helena discusses with Gustav about his intentions for Maj. Contains the Fourth Act (The Summer's Events).

Isak plots to rescue Fanny and Alexander from their stepfather. Contains the Fifth Act (The Demons) and the Epilogue.