Arthur

Arthur

Year: 1981

Runtime: 97 min

Language: English

Director: Steve Gordon

comedyromance

A charming and wealthy playboy named Arthur Bach finds himself facing a difficult decision: marry for money as stipulated in his late father’s will, or pursue a genuine connection with a captivating woman. Guided by his pragmatic nanny, Hobson, and drawn to a spirited individual, Arthur grapples with questions of love, family obligations, and discovering who he truly is. He must ultimately choose between financial security and following his heart.

Warning: spoilers below!

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Timeline & Setting – Arthur (1981)

Explore the full timeline and setting of Arthur (1981). Follow every major event in chronological order and see how the environment shapes the story, characters, and dramatic tension.

Time period

The film's events unfold in a contemporary setting reflecting the lifestyle and social dynamics of affluent families during the late 20th century. Themes of privilege, love, and personal choice resonate in this modern backdrop, encapsulating the conflict between societal expectations and individual desires.

Location

New York City, Southampton, Long Island

The movie takes place primarily in New York City, known for its bustling energy and vibrant culture, making it a hub for rich socialites. Southampton, a famous resort town in Long Island, represents the more affluent side of Arthur's life as it's the location for his engagement party, showcasing opulence and social status.

🏙️ City 🌊 Beach

Last Updated: January 14, 2025 at 22:10

Main Characters – Arthur (1981)

Meet the key characters of Arthur (1981), with detailed profiles, motivations, and roles in the plot. Understand their emotional journeys and what they reveal about the film’s deeper themes.

Arthur Bach (Dudley Moore)

Arthur is a wealthy, carefree socialite struggling with the expectations of his family. He is charming yet irresponsible, often indulging in alcohol and romantic escapades. His character evolves throughout the film as he confronts the reality of his choices and the true meaning of love.

💵 Rich 🎉 Playful ❤️ Torn

Linda Marolla

Linda is a spirited young woman who captures Arthur's heart. Unlike the women from his social circle, she brings out his genuine self, leading him to question his lifestyle and societal expectations. Her character is pivotal in Arthur's journey towards self-discovery and true love.

❤️ Romantic 🌟 Free-spirited 💪 Strong

Hobson

Hobson is Arthur's loyal servant and confidant, providing wisdom and guidance in Arthur's life. He often takes on a paternal role, challenging Arthur to make better choices. Hobson's relationship with Arthur is crucial, as it highlights themes of friendship and loyalty amidst familial pressures.

👴 Wise 👨‍❤️‍👨 Loyal 🤝 Supportive

Susan Johnson

Susan is the woman whom Arthur's family wants him to marry. While she represents stability and social standing, her lack of genuine connection with Arthur illustrates the conflict between obligation and love. Susan's character embodies the societal expectations placed upon Arthur.

💍 Engaged 💔 Disconnected 👠 Elegant

Last Updated: January 14, 2025 at 22:10

Major Themes – Arthur (1981)

Explore the central themes of Arthur (1981), from psychological, social, and emotional dimensions to philosophical messages. Understand what the film is really saying beneath the surface.

💔 Love

At its core, the movie explores the theme of love, contrasting the superficialities of wealth with the genuine connection between Arthur and Linda. Despite familial pressures and societal expectations, Arthur's journey highlights the importance of following one's heart. The development of his relationship with Linda serves as a catalyst for his personal growth and transformation.

💰 Wealth

Wealth serves as both a privilege and a burden in Arthur's life. While it grants access to luxury and influence, it also traps him in a world of expectations and obligations. The tension between his desire for freedom and the demands of his family shape the narrative, showcasing the complexities of living in privilege.

🥂 Indulgence

Arthur's character embodies a life of indulgence, often seen cavorting at extravagant parties and consuming copious amounts of alcohol. This theme illustrates the hedonistic lifestyle associated with wealth and the eventual consequences that follow. His excessive behavior serves as a mechanism for escape from the pressures of his privileged existence.

Last Updated: January 14, 2025 at 22:10

Unlock the Full Story of Arthur

Don't stop at just watching — explore Arthur 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 Arthur is all about. Plus, discover what's next after the movie.

Arthur Summary

Read a complete plot summary of Arthur, 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.

Arthur Summary

Arthur Timeline

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

Arthur Timeline

More About Arthur

Visit What's After the Movie to explore more about Arthur: 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 Arthur

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