Big Eyes

Big Eyes

Year: 2014

Runtime: 106 min

Language: English

Director: Tim Burton

BiographyDrama

In 1950s America, Walter Keane achieves remarkable success as a painter of melancholic portraits of children with large, expressive eyes. However, the public is unaware that Margaret Keane, his wife, is the true artist behind these iconic images. As Walter takes credit for her work and his fame increases, Margaret struggles to gain recognition while navigating a complicated and increasingly strained marriage. The deception and the ensuing conflict reveal a hidden truth about the creation of the haunting artwork.

Warning: spoilers below!

Haven’t seen Big Eyes yet? This summary contains major spoilers. Bookmark the page, watch the movie, and come back for the full breakdown. If you're ready, scroll on and relive the story!

Timeline – Big Eyes (2014)

Trace every key event in Big Eyes (2014) 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

Margaret Leaves Her Husband

In 1958, Margaret, played by Amy Adams, makes the brave decision to leave her husband. She takes her daughter Jane and relocates to the lively North Beach area of San Francisco, embarking on a journey as a single mother.

1958 North Beach, San Francisco
2

Starting a New Life

In San Francisco, Margaret finds work creating illustrations at a furniture factory. She befriends Dee-Ann, who helps her adjust to the challenges of supporting her family alone while fostering a sense of community.

Furniture Factory, San Francisco
3

Meeting Walter Keane

While displaying her artwork at an outdoor art show, Margaret encounters Walter Keane, known for his Parisian street scene paintings. His charming demeanor captivates both Margaret and Jane, leading to shared meals and dreams of traveling to France.

Outdoor Art Show, San Francisco
4

Artistic Success and Court Battle

Margaret's unique art style captures attention, but trouble looms as her ex-husband seeks custody of Jane. Meanwhile, Walter proposes to Margaret, resulting in a marriage filled with artistic ambition and personal turmoil.

San Francisco
5

Walter's Ambitions

Desiring success, Walter approaches gallery owner Reuben, who refuses to exhibit their works. Undeterred, he attempts to raise their profile at a jazz club, igniting a brawl that makes headlines and draws crowds.

Local Jazz Club, San Francisco
6

Rise to Fame

As media attention grows, driven by gossip columnist Dick Nolan, Walter asserts ownership of Margaret's artwork. He capitalizes on her popularity, leading to skyrocketing sales and the launch of his own gallery.

Keane Gallery, San Francisco
7

Isolation at the Mansion

With newfound wealth, the couple moves to an extravagant mansion, but Margaret begins to feel isolated. Walter mingles with celebrities while misleading Jane about the true creator of the paintings, creating tension in their family.

Opulent Mansion
8

Margaret's Artistic Crisis

Struggling with her identity as an artist, Margaret attempts to change her style to assert herself. However, this struggle leads to a deeper conflict as she discovers Walter's fraudulent claims about his artistic abilities.

9

The Shocking Revelation

Margaret uncovers Parisian scenes signed by another artist, confirming Walter's lack of painting skills. Confronting him leads to escalating tensions, with Walter threatening violence if she shares the truth.

10

Escape from Walter

As their relationship deteriorates, a fiery incident leads Margaret and Jane to flee. This daring escape represents a pivotal moment of courage in reclaiming their lives.

11

Life in Hawaii

In Honolulu, Hawaii, Margaret feels trapped by Walter's demands for a divorce. Struggling for her freedom, she seeks guidance from two Jehovah's Witnesses, inspiring her to reclaim her artistic identity.

Honolulu, Hawaii
12

Public Declaration

Margaret shocks the world with a surprise radio interview, publicly claiming her rightful place as the true artist behind the Keane name. This bold statement garners significant national attention.

13

Courtroom Showdown

Facing off in court, Margaret and Walter's dispute escalates into a media spectacle. The judge challenges them to create artworks on the spot, revealing Margaret's true talent when Walter fails under pressure.

Courtroom
14

Victory in the Court

Margaret emerges victorious after showcasing her skill in court, finally earning recognition for her artistic contributions. This triumph is a critical turning point in her fight for acknowledgment.

Courtroom
15

A New Beginning

Following her victory, Margaret shifts her focus to her own art and reopens a gallery in San Francisco. She embraces her passion, dedicating herself to creating art every day while leaving Walter's delusions behind.

San Francisco

Last Updated: November 03, 2024 at 21:25

Unlock the Full Story of Big Eyes

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

Big Eyes Summary

Read a complete plot summary of Big Eyes, 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.

Big Eyes Summary

Characters, Settings & Themes in Big Eyes

Discover the characters, locations, and core themes that shape Big Eyes. Get insights into symbolic elements, setting significance, and deeper narrative meaning — ideal for thematic analysis and movie breakdowns.

Characters, Settings & Themes in Big Eyes

More About Big Eyes

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