"The Hours" explores the interconnected lives of three women across different time periods, all of whom grapple with themes of depression, identity, and the search for meaning. Centered around Virginia Woolf as she writes "Mrs. Dalloway," the film illustrates how her narrative resonates with the struggles of Laura Brown in the 1940s and Clarissa Vaughan in the early 2000s. Ultimately, it highlights the impact of mental illness, the burden of societal expectations, and the quest for personal fulfillment, emphasizing the importance of connection and the passage of time.

Nicole Kidman is unrecognizable in "The Hours" primarily due to her portrayal of Virginia Woolf, which involved significant physical transformation. She wore a prosthetic nose to better resemble the author, and her makeup was designed to reflect Woolf's character's somber and troubled life. Kidman's performance also required a nuanced emotional depth, showcasing Woolf's struggles with mental illness and creativity. This transformation earned her critical acclaim and an Academy Award for Best Actress, highlighting her dedication to the role.

"The Hours" is not based on a true story in the traditional sense, but it is inspired by the life and work of the author Virginia Woolf, particularly her novel "Mrs. Dalloway." The film intertwines the stories of three women from different eras, all connected by Woolf's writing. While the characters' lives are fictional, they reflect real emotional struggles and themes related to mental health, identity, and the impact of literature. The film captures the essence of Woolf's influence rather than depicting actual events from her life.

In "The Hours," Richard Brown, portrayed by Ed Harris, suffers from AIDS. His illness is central to his character's struggles and influences the narrative, as it reflects themes of despair, creativity, and the impact of illness on relationships. Richard's condition also serves as a catalyst for the emotional journeys of the other characters, particularly Laura Brown, played by Julianne Moore, as she navigates her own existential crises while caring for him. The film explores the interconnectedness of their lives and the weight of their experiences.