A Fine Madness

A Fine Madness

Year: 1966

Runtime: 104 min

Language: English

Director: Irvin Kershner

DramaComedyRomance

In this witty drama, struggling poet Samson Shillitoe's reckless antics push his marriage to the brink. Institutionalized for his erratic behavior, he finds himself entangled with a beautiful psychiatrist, sparking a tangled web of relationships that challenge the boundaries of love, sanity, and creativity.

Warning: spoilers below!

Haven’t seen A Fine Madness yet? This summary contains major spoilers. Bookmark the page, watch the movie, and come back for the full breakdown. If you're ready, scroll on and relive the story!

Timeline & Setting – A Fine Madness (1966)
Explore the full timeline and setting of A Fine Madness (1966). Follow every major event in chronological order and see how the environment shapes the story, characters, and dramatic tension.

Time period

Location

New York City, Greenwich Village

Greenwich Village is a vibrant and artistic neighborhood in New York City, known for its bohemian culture and as a hub for writers, musicians, and artists. It has a rich history of being a center for free expression and creativity, often attracting those seeking inspiration and a sense of community.

🏙️ City 🏡 Neighborhood

Last Updated: October 22, 2024 at 23:19

Main Characters – A Fine Madness (1966)
Meet the key characters of A Fine Madness (1966), with detailed profiles, motivations, and roles in the plot. Understand their emotional journeys and what they reveal about the film’s deeper themes.

Samson Shillitoe (Sean Connery)

Samson Shillitoe is a passionate poet teetering on the edge of obsession with his art. His emotional volatility and impulsive actions reflect his inner turmoil as he grapples with creative block and the consequences of his past decisions. Despite his flaws, his complexity and fierce dedication to his craft make him a compelling and tragic figure.

✍️ Poet 😠 Troubled

Rhoda (Joanne Woodward)

Rhoda is Samson's devoted partner, embodying loyalty and resilience amidst the chaos of their lives. She is determined to help him overcome his artistic struggles and avoid the depths of despair, showcasing her strength in the face of adversity. Her character highlights the sacrifices made for love and the emotional toll of supporting someone in crisis.

❤️ Loyal 🌼 Supportive

Dr. West (Patrick O'Neal)

Dr. West is a psychiatrist torn between his professional duty and personal feelings as he navigates the complexities of Samson's treatment. His character is layered, showcasing the conflict between ethics and emotions when his wife becomes involved with his patient. This dynamic adds depth to the story as personal relationships clash with professional boundaries.

🩺 Psychiatrist 🤔 Conflicted

Lydia (Jean Seberg)

Lydia is the enchanting wife of Dr. West, whose forbidden attraction to Samson leads her into a whirlwind of desire and conflict. She embodies the struggle between societal expectations and personal happiness, making her choices pivotal to the story's tension. Lydia's character arc explores themes of love, betrayal, and the quest for emotional fulfillment.

💔 Torn 🌹 Passionate

Last Updated: October 22, 2024 at 23:19

Major Themes – A Fine Madness (1966)
Explore the central themes of A Fine Madness (1966), from psychological, social, and emotional dimensions to philosophical messages. Understand what the film is really saying beneath the surface.

🎨 Artistic Struggle

The theme of artistic struggle is central to 'A Fine Madness', highlighting the challenges faced by creatives in their pursuit of inspiration. Samson's battles with writer's block and the pressures of life reflect the emotional turmoil often associated with the artistic process. The relentless quest for authenticity and expression serves as a backdrop for both his accomplishments and failures.

💔 Love and Betrayal

Love and betrayal permeate the film, as relationships become strained under the weight of mistrust and desire. Rhoda's unwavering support balances against the tensions created by Samson's affair with Lydia, showcasing the complexities of love when intertwined with ambition and jealousy. The repercussions of betrayal culminate in a dramatic climax that tests loyalty and moral integrity.

🌀 Mental Health

Mental health is a critical theme in the film, depicted through Samson's struggles and Rhoda's desperate attempts to intervene. The portrayal of therapy and the dangers of manipulation in psychiatric care raises questions about the treatment of mental illness. As characters confront their inner demons, the film explores the fine line between healing and harming.

Last Updated: October 22, 2024 at 23:19

Similar Movies to A Fine Madness
Discover movies like A Fine Madness that share similar genres, themes, and storytelling elements. Whether you’re drawn to the atmosphere, character arcs, or plot structure, these curated recommendations will help you explore more films you’ll love.