A Cold Wind in August

A Cold Wind in August

Year: 1961

Runtime: 80 mins

Language: English

Director: Alexander Singer

RomanceDrama

An evocative drama about a shy teenager who becomes enthralled by his enigmatic, tender yet world‑weary older neighbor. Drawn together by curiosity and longing, the older woman’s confidence and experience clash with his youthful innocence, exploring the fragile, often painful boundaries of love and desire.

Warning: spoilers below!

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Timeline – A Cold Wind in August (1961)

Trace every key event in A Cold Wind in August (1961) with our detailed, chronological timeline. Perfect for unpacking nonlinear stories, spotting hidden connections, and understanding how each scene builds toward the film’s climax. Whether you're revisiting or decoding for the first time, this timeline gives you the full picture.

1

Husband asks Iris to join Newark show

In her New York City apartment, Iris is visited by her estranged husband who asks her to star in an upcoming Newark show, for which he must supply performers. Iris resists, valuing her privacy and avoiding work in the New York area. Yet she is moved by pity for his predicament and agrees to consider the idea.

Evening during his visit New York City apartment
2

Iris meets Vito Perugino

Iris meets Vito Perugino, the 17-year-old son of the building superintendent. She experiences an instant and powerful physical attraction to him. In their first meeting, she is shamelessly flirtatious.

Early in their acquaintance New York City building
3

Second meeting—seduction

In their second meeting, Iris seduces Vito, starting a passionate affair. The affair quickly becomes more intense than she initially intended. Their bond grows beyond a casual fling.

Second meeting Iris's apartment / vicinity
4

Love grows

Iris experiences an emotional attraction to Vito, and the relationship becomes serious. Vito asks to go steady, and Iris, amused yet moved, happily accepts.

As the relationship deepens Iris's apartment
5

Jealousy and withdrawal

Vito's jealousy creates trouble, and Iris tries to withdraw from him. Her withdrawal makes her miserable, as she realises she cannot easily give up what she has started.

After jealousy arises New York City
6

Reconciliation yet secrecy

They patch their relationship and declare their love for one another. Vito remains unaware of Iris's occupation as a burlesque performer.

Weeks later Iris's apartment
7

Iris performs in Newark

Iris performs in the Newark burlesque show. Vito's friend sees her on stage and informs Vito, who initially refuses to believe the report.

After her Newark performance Newark, New Jersey
8

Verification

Vito attends the next night's show and confirms that Iris is indeed a burlesque performer. The revelation challenges his idealized image of her.

Next night Newark, New Jersey
9

Explosion of conflict

The knowledge shatters Vito's perception of Iris, and an explosive argument ensues between them. The confrontation marks a turning point in their relationship.

Soon after the show Iris's apartment
10

Reconciliation invitation

A week later, Iris reaches out to Vito, hoping to reconcile by inviting him to her apartment for dinner. She wants to salvage the relationship despite the uncomfortable revelation.

One week later Iris's apartment
11

Dinner and waning passion

Vito arrives, but his interest in Iris has waned. He is no longer angry about her occupation, yet the passion they once shared has cooled.

That evening Iris's apartment
12

New love interest emerges

Vito tells Iris he has a new romantic interest, a girl his own age, and leaves for a date. Iris watches him depart, realizing her love may not be returned.

Moment of departure Iris's apartment
13

Iris left alone

Iris is left alone, sobbing in her apartment after the evening's events. The relationship has effectively collapsed, and she confronts the ache of unfulfilled love.

After he leaves Iris's apartment

Last Updated: October 07, 2025 at 09:26

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Unlock the Full Story of A Cold Wind in August

Don't stop at just watching — explore A Cold Wind in August 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 A Cold Wind in August is all about. Plus, discover what's next after the movie.

A Cold Wind in August Summary

Read a complete plot summary of A Cold Wind in August, 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.

A Cold Wind in August Summary

Characters, Settings & Themes in A Cold Wind in August

Discover the characters, locations, and core themes that shape A Cold Wind in August. Get insights into symbolic elements, setting significance, and deeper narrative meaning — ideal for thematic analysis and movie breakdowns.

Characters, Settings & Themes in A Cold Wind in August

More About A Cold Wind in August

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