An Education

An Education

Year: 2009

Runtime: 100 min

Language: English

Director: Lone Scherfig

Drama

In this poignant drama, a sheltered teenager's world is turned upside down by an alluring stranger. Bright and ambitious Jenny is swept off her feet by David's charm, trading innocence for a thrilling ride into adulthood as they navigate the complexities of love, class, and identity in 1960s London.

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Timeline & Setting – An Education (2009)
Explore the full timeline and setting of An Education (2009). Follow every major event in chronological order and see how the environment shapes the story, characters, and dramatic tension.

Time period

1961

Set against the backdrop of 1961, this period was significant in shaping youth culture in the UK, with a burgeoning exploration of social freedoms and relationships. The societal expectations for women were beginning to shift, as education and personal aspirations started to take precedence over traditional roles. This tumultuous time serves as the foundation for Jenny’s character development and the re-evaluation of her choices.

Location

London, Paris

The movie takes place primarily in London during the early 1960s, a vibrant city known for its cultural richness and educational heritage. Paris serves as a backdrop for a romantic getaway, embodying the allure and excitement of youth. Both cities represent pivotal moments in Jenny's journey of self-discovery and personal growth.

🏙️ City ✈️ Travel

Last Updated: October 22, 2024 at 19:46

Main Characters – An Education (2009)
Meet the key characters of An Education (2009), with detailed profiles, motivations, and roles in the plot. Understand their emotional journeys and what they reveal about the film’s deeper themes.

Jenny Mellor (Carey Mulligan)

Jenny is a bright and ambitious 16-year-old schoolgirl whose aspirations for Oxford are challenged by her burgeoning romance with David. Initially innocent and naive, she becomes enamored with a glamorous lifestyle that leads her down a path of deception. Her character evolves as she confronts the harsh realities of her choices, ultimately rediscovering her strength and resolve to pursue her education.

👩‍🎓 Ambition 💖 Naivety 📖 Growth

Jack (Alfred Molina)

Jack, Jenny's father, embodies the traditional paternal figure who supports his daughter's ambitions while being skeptical of her romantic choices. His initial trust in David reflects a more permissive approach to parenting but ultimately leads to regret when he realizes the deceit surrounding his daughter. Jack's character highlights themes of protection, trust, and the complexities of parental relationships.

👨‍👧 Protection 😟 Trust 📉 Regret

David Goldman (Peter Sarsgaard)

David is a charismatic and sophisticated older man whose allure entices Jenny but masks a darker reality of manipulation and deceit. Initially presented as a mentor figure, his true nature as a con man ultimately shatters Jenny's illusions. David's character is a complex blend of charm and dishonesty, illustrating the dangers of misplaced trust in relationships.

💼 Charisma 🎭 Deceit ❌ Manipulation

Last Updated: October 22, 2024 at 19:46

Major Themes – An Education (2009)
Explore the central themes of An Education (2009), from psychological, social, and emotional dimensions to philosophical messages. Understand what the film is really saying beneath the surface.

🎓 Education

The theme of education is central to Jenny's character as her academic aspirations drive her initial motivations. The film juxtaposes her pursuit of knowledge against the distractions of romance and societal expectations. Ultimately, her journey reflects the struggle to balance personal ambitions with the influences of love and deception.

💔 Deception

Deception plays a pivotal role in Jenny's relationship with David, highlighting the thematic conflict between appearance and reality. As she falls for David's charm, the underlying dishonesty leads to devastating consequences, prompting her to confront her naiveté. This theme serves as a stark reminder of the importance of discernment in relationships.

🌹 Romance

Romance is depicted as both enchanting and perilous in the film, with Jenny enthralled by David's allure and the glamorous lifestyle he offers. However, this romance is fraught with manipulation and illusion, ultimately culminating in heartbreak. Jenny's romantic experiences serve as a catalyst for her personal growth and understanding of true love.

Last Updated: October 22, 2024 at 19:46

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