Behind the Sun

Behind the Sun

Year: 2001

Runtime: 105 min

Language: English

Director: Walter Salles

Drama

A struggling writer, overwhelmed by despair, retreats into a fantastical world to find comfort and escape. There, he discovers solace in the presence of a companion born from his imagination. As he spends more time in this constructed reality, the boundaries between what is real and what is not become increasingly indistinct, forcing him to confront his own internal struggles and the nature of his emotional state.

Warning: spoilers below!

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Timeline & Setting – Behind the Sun (2001)

Explore the full timeline and setting of Behind the Sun (2001). Follow every major event in chronological order and see how the environment shapes the story, characters, and dramatic tension.

Time period

1910

The year 1910 is marked by social tensions and deep-rooted feuds in rural Brazil. This period reflects a world where old codes of honor and revenge dictate actions, leading to a tragic cycle that engulfs families for generations. It is a time when traditional values clash with new beginnings, highlighting the struggle between past grievances and the possibility of change.

Location

Northeast Brazil

The desolate badlands of Northeast Brazil serve as the backdrop for this film, characterized by harsh landscapes and a sense of isolation. Known for its rugged terrain and resilience, this region reflects the struggles of its inhabitants, caught in a cycle of violence and despair. The nearby ocean symbolizes both beauty and the promise of escape from their tumultuous lives.

🌄 Badlands 🌊 Ocean

Last Updated: October 23, 2024 at 08:45

Main Characters – Behind the Sun (2001)

Meet the key characters of Behind the Sun (2001), with detailed profiles, motivations, and roles in the plot. Understand their emotional journeys and what they reveal about the film’s deeper themes.

Tonho

Tonho, the 20-year-old middle son of the Breves family, is caught in a web of familial duty and the harsh realities of violence. Struggling with the pressure of avenging his brother’s death, he embodies the conflict between legacy and the desire for a different life. His inner turmoil reflects the film’s themes of revenge and helplessness.

👨‍🌾 Farmer ⚔️ Avenger

Pacu

Pacu, initially referred to as 'the Kid,' represents innocence amidst chaos. His imaginative spirit and unwavering love provide a stark contrast to the violent world around him. Despite his lack of a name, Pacu's journey with Tonho and Clara encapsulates the film's emotional core, emphasizing the bonds of family.

👦 Innocence 🌈 Imagination

Clara

Clara, a charismatic circus performer, symbolizes the lure of a different life and the possibility of love. Her connection with Tonho reveals his yearning for change, while her departure highlights the film's theme of loss. Clara's independent spirit and desire for connection make her a pivotal character in Tonho's transformation.

🎭 Performer 💖 Love

Last Updated: October 23, 2024 at 08:45

Major Themes – Behind the Sun (2001)

Explore the central themes of Behind the Sun (2001), from psychological, social, and emotional dimensions to philosophical messages. Understand what the film is really saying beneath the surface.

🔫 Revenge

Revenge is a central theme, illustrated through the generations of blood feuds between the Breves and the Ferreiras. This relentless cycle of retaliation demonstrates how vengeance drives characters to commit acts of violence in an attempt to restore their family's honor. Ultimately, the film questions the futility of such actions and the cost it exacts on individual lives.

💔 Loss

The theme of loss permeates the narrative, particularly through the character of Tonho and the tragic fate of his younger brother, Pacu. The family experiences profound grief and inevitability, as each member grapples with the idea of impending loss. Clara's departure and Pacu's death serve as poignant reminders of the fragility of life and the enduring impact of loss on the human spirit.

🎪 Hope

In the midst of despair, hope emerges through relationships, particularly between Tonho, Pacu, and Clara. Clara represents a world of possibilities, urging Tonho to consider a life beyond revenge. Despite the darkness surrounding them, Pacu's imagination and love signify resilience and the potential for change, offering a glimmer of hope in an otherwise bleak existence.

Last Updated: October 23, 2024 at 08:45

Unlock the Full Story of Behind the Sun

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

Behind the Sun Summary

Read a complete plot summary of Behind the Sun, 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.

Behind the Sun Summary

Behind the Sun Timeline

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

Behind the Sun Timeline

More About Behind the Sun

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

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