Before Sunset

Before Sunset

Year: 2004

Runtime: 80 min

Language: english

DramaRomance

Nine years after a memorable night in Vienna, Jesse, a writer from Texas, and Celine, a French student, unexpectedly meet again in Paris. Over the course of a rainy afternoon, they wander the city, reminiscing about their past encounter and discussing their evolving perspectives on love, ambition, and the paths they've taken. The reunion sparks a deeper exploration of their lives and the enduring power of their connection, leaving them to contemplate what might have been.

Warning: spoilers below!

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Timeline – Before Sunset (2004)

Trace every key event in Before Sunset (2004) 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

Jesse's Success

Nine years after their initial meeting in Vienna, Jesse has found success as an author. His bestselling novel, 'This Time', reflects on the moments he shared with Céline, creating a sense of nostalgia and longing.

2

Promotional Tour

During his promotional tour across Europe, Jesse encounters journalists at Shakespeare and Company. They engage him in a series of thought-provoking interviews about his novel and its characters.

Shakespeare and Company, Paris
3

Céline's Presence

Amidst the interviews, Jesse is surprised to find that Céline is also present at the reading. Their unexpected reunion sets the stage for a deep and meaningful conversation.

Shakespeare and Company, Paris
4

Exploring Paris Together

With only an hour to spare before Jesse's departure, the two seize the opportunity to explore the enchanting streets of Paris. Their casual stroll quickly deepens into a discussion about their lives and choices over the past nine years.

Paris
5

Reflections on the Past

As they wander, their conversation touches on how much they regret not reconnecting back in Vienna. They discuss their past decisions, including the absence of exchanged contact information.

6

Céline's Loss

Céline reveals that she had stayed away from Jesse due to the passing of her grandmother. This revelation adds depth to her character, highlighting her emotional struggles during the time they lost contact.

7

Jesse's Admission

To Céline's surprise, Jesse admits that he also returned home from Vienna without seeing her. This shared regret underscores the significance of their earlier connection and the void left in their lives.

8

Life Updates

Throughout their heartfelt exchanges, Jesse and Céline reveal major changes in their lives. Jesse is now married with a son named Hank, while Céline has become an environmental advocate and is in a relationship with a photojournalist.

9

Romantic Tensions

As they walk through Paris, the spark of their old romance begins to reignite. Jesse confesses that his novel was inspired by the dream of reconnecting with Céline, revealing the lasting impact of their past.

Paris
10

Bittersweet Memories

Céline shares that Jesse’s novel has stirred bittersweet memories for her. They reflect on how their time together shaped their views on love, leading to current discontent in their respective relationships.

11

Arriving at Céline's Apartment

Despite her insistence that he shouldn't miss his flight, Jesse and Céline arrive at her apartment. The intimacy of the setting allows for deeper emotional exchanges and a sense of urgency in their connection.

Céline's apartment, Paris
12

A Waltz Together

Jesse gently convinces Céline to play a waltz on her guitar, a piece she composed to commemorate their unforgettable encounter in Vienna. This moment of music acts as a bridge between their past and present.

Céline's apartment, Paris
13

Nina Simone's Song

As Jesse sets Nina Simone's 'Just in Time' to play on the stereo, a poignant atmosphere fills the room. Céline begins to dance, with Jesse observing, their complicated feelings fully coming to the surface.

Céline's apartment, Paris
14

A Moment of Decision

In this heartfelt moment, Jesse realizes he might just miss his chance to leave. The tension of their unresolved feelings looms large, and it becomes clear that their connection is stronger than time apart.

Céline's apartment, Paris

Last Updated: November 15, 2024 at 20:23

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Before Sunset Summary

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Before Sunset Summary

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Characters, Settings & Themes in Before Sunset

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