54

54

Year: 1998

Runtime: 93 min

Language: English

Director: Mark Christopher

DramaHistory

In 1970s New York City, Studio 54 became a legendary nightclub, a vibrant hub of disco, celebrity, and uninhibited revelry. For Shane O'Shea, a young man with aspirations, the club represents a chance to achieve his big-city dreams. His path intertwines with that of Steve Rubell, the club's enigmatic owner, leading Shane from relative obscurity to a prominent role within the dazzling scene. As Shane navigates this world of excess, he finds himself drawn to soap star Julie Black, while coat-check girl Anita hopes to capture her own moment in the spotlight amidst the city’s glittering nightlife.

Warning: spoilers below!

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Timeline & Setting – 54 (1998)

Explore the full timeline and setting of 54 (1998). Follow every major event in chronological order and see how the environment shapes the story, characters, and dramatic tension.

Time period

Late 1970s

The late 1970s were marked by significant cultural shifts, including the rise of disco music and nightlife. This period saw a flourishing of nightlife culture and a countercultural movement aimed at breaking societal norms. It was a time of excess, with many engaging in unrestrained partying, exploration of identity, and experimentation with drugs.

Location

New Jersey, New York City, Studio 54

The movie takes place primarily in New Jersey and the iconic Studio 54 in New York City. Studio 54 was known for its exclusive guest list and vibrant nightlife, often considered a symbol of the disco era. It attracted celebrities and party-goers, embodying the glamour and hedonism of the late 1970s.

🏙️ City 🎉 Nightclub

Last Updated: October 22, 2024 at 20:17

Main Characters – 54 (1998)

Meet the key characters of 54 (1998), with detailed profiles, motivations, and roles in the plot. Understand their emotional journeys and what they reveal about the film’s deeper themes.

Shane O'Shea

Shane O'Shea is a 19-year-old who yearns for a life beyond his mundane upbringing. His journey is marked by a desire for excitement and acceptance as he navigates the nightlife scene. Amidst his ambitions, he faces internal conflicts that challenge his relationships with family and friends.

👦 Young Adult 🎭 Transformation

Harlan

Harlan is Shane's conservative father who struggles with the loss of his wife. His attempts to guide Shane highlight the generational conflict between traditional values and the pursuit of a more flamboyant lifestyle. Harlan's disapproval weighs heavily on Shane's choices, serving as a constant reminder of his family's expectations.

👨‍👧 Father Figure 💔 Loss

Greg Randazzo

Greg Randazzo is a fellow busboy at Studio 54 who shares dreams of escaping his lackluster life. His friendship with Shane becomes pivotal as they navigate the highs and lows of nightclub culture. However, their bond is tested as Shane’s ambition leads to misunderstandings and jealousy.

👫 Friendship 🎉 Nightlife

Julie Black

Julie Black is an aspiring actress and Shane's love interest, whose relationship becomes strained due to the chaotic lifestyle surrounding them. Her involvement with the casting agent Roland highlights the fleeting nature of their romance and Shane's deep feelings of betrayal.

❤️ Romance 🌟 Aspiration

Last Updated: October 22, 2024 at 20:17

Major Themes – 54 (1998)

Explore the central themes of 54 (1998), from psychological, social, and emotional dimensions to philosophical messages. Understand what the film is really saying beneath the surface.

🌟 Ambition

Ambition drives Shane to pursue a lifestyle far removed from his conservative upbringing. As he dives into the nightlife of Studio 54, his desire for fame and excitement leads him to make drastic life changes. This theme highlights the struggle between personal ambition and the consequences it brings to relationships and identity.

💔 Heartbreak

Heartbreak resonates throughout Shane's journey, from his initial dreams to the harsh realities of fame. His romantic escapades and the eventual betrayal by Julie bring emotional turmoil. This theme underscores the ephemeral nature of relationships exacerbated by the excess of club culture and the pursuit of superficial connections.

🔄 Transformation

Shane undergoes a significant transformation, both in appearance and lifestyle, as he ventures into the world of Studio 54. This theme captures his evolution from a conservative gas jockey to a figure engulfed in the glamour and chaos of nightclub life. It reflects the broader quest for identity that many experience while navigating their dreams and ambitions.

Last Updated: October 22, 2024 at 20:17

Unlock the Full Story of 54

Don't stop at just watching — explore 54 in full detail. From the complete plot summary and scene-by-scene timeline to character breakdowns, thematic analysis, and a deep dive into the ending — every page helps you truly understand what 54 is all about. Plus, discover what's next after the movie.

54 Summary

Read a complete plot summary of 54, including all key story points, character arcs, and turning points. This in-depth recap is ideal for understanding the narrative structure or reviewing what happened in the movie.

54 Summary

54 Timeline

Track the full timeline of 54 with every major event arranged chronologically. Perfect for decoding non-linear storytelling, flashbacks, or parallel narratives with a clear scene-by-scene breakdown.

54 Timeline

More About 54

Visit What's After the Movie to explore more about 54: box office results, cast and crew info, production details, post-credit scenes, and external links — all in one place for movie fans and researchers.

More About 54

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