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 – Arthur (1981)

Trace every key event in Arthur (1981) 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

Arthur's Indulgent Lifestyle

Arthur Bach is depicted as a rich socialite who constantly embarrasses his family with his excessive drinking and wild antics. His actions are frequently covered in the tabloids, showcasing his reputation as a notorious playboy.

New York City
2

Pressure to Marry Susan

Arthur's father and grandmother insist that he marries Susan Johnson to ensure a lucrative business partnership. Despite the pressure and the threat of losing his inheritance, Arthur feels disheartened as he does not love Susan.

3

Meeting Linda

While shopping at Bergdorf-Goodman's, Arthur witnesses Linda Marolla attempting to steal a tie for her father's birthday. He intervenes to protect her, managing to charm her with a kiss amidst the unfolding drama.

Bergdorf-Goodman, Manhattan
4

Arthur and Linda's Date

After saving Linda, Arthur takes her on a date that marks the beginning of their romance. They share an instant connection, contrasting sharply with Arthur's obligations to marry Susan.

5

Confrontation with His Father

During a meeting with his father, Arthur declares he will not marry Susan, which provokes his father's anger. Faced with the threat of losing his substantial inheritance, Arthur reluctantly submits to familial pressure.

6

Grandmother's Ultimatum

Arthur's grandmother also presses him to marry Susan, asserting that he will lose everything if he doesn't comply. She even suggests he can maintain a relationship with Linda on the side, adding to Arthur's internal conflict.

7

Proposing to Susan

Arthur proposes to Susan at a fancy restaurant despite knowing she will accept regardless of his numerous flaws. The engagement feels hollow to Arthur, who grapples with his true feelings for Linda.

Posh Restaurant
8

Rejected Offer to Linda

After proposing to Susan, Arthur drunkenly visits Linda and offers her $100,000, which she sternly refuses, urging him to leave. This moment showcases the depth of Arthur's emotional turmoil and his misguided attempts to cope.

Linda's Apartment
9

Hobson's Illness

Arthur learns that his faithful servant Hobson has been hospitalized. Concerned, he prioritizes Hobson's comfort over his wedding preparations, developing a deeper bond in their final moments together.

Hospital
10

Hobson's Death

After caring for Hobson during his illness, Arthur is devastated by his friend's death. Arthur's grief leads him to reevaluate his life choices, stopping his reckless behavior in a moment of clarity.

11

Proposal to Linda

Filled with sorrow but newfound courage, Arthur visits Linda at her diner and proposes marriage, despite knowing he will be cut off financially. Linda accepts, leading them to confront the implications of their love.

Diner
12

Turbulent Wedding Day

On the day of his wedding to Susan, Arthur realizes he cannot go through with it. He confronts Susan to declare he does not love her, inciting a violent reaction from her father, Burt Johnson.

Church
13

Martha's Intervention

As chaos ensues, Arthur's grandmother, Martha, intervenes to halt Burt's aggression. She reveals her willingness to let Arthur keep his inheritance as long as he is with Linda, shifting the power dynamics.

Church
14

A New Beginning

After the tumultuous events, Arthur accepts his grandmother's offer and decides to pursue a life with Linda. He and Linda share a ride through Central Park, symbolizing their new chapter together.

Central Park

Last Updated: January 18, 2025 at 14:36

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Arthur Summary

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Arthur Summary

Characters, Settings & Themes in Arthur

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Characters, Settings & Themes in Arthur

More About Arthur

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