Bitter Moon

Bitter Moon

Year: 1994

Runtime: 139 min

Language: English

Director: Roman Polanski

DramaThrillerRomance

A disillusioned writer, wheelchair-bound and haunted by his past, tells a stranger, played by Hugh Grant, the story of his passionate and destructive marriage to the captivating Emmanuelle Seigner. Their relationship unfolds against the backdrop of a luxurious ocean liner, where the lines between memory, truth, and illusion become increasingly blurred as he recounts their complex and ultimately tragic journey.

Warning: spoilers below!

Haven’t seen Bitter Moon 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 – Bitter Moon (1994)

Trace every key event in Bitter Moon (1994) 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

Honeymoon Cruise Departure

Nigel and Fiona begin their new life together on a honeymoon cruise to India. This journey signifies both romance and adventure for the couple as they immerse themselves in the journey ahead.

2

Meeting Mimi

On their cruise, they encounter Mimi, a vibrant young woman with a Parisian flair. Her captivating personality introduces a new, dramatic element into Nigel and Fiona's life.

Cruise Ship
3

Introduction to Oscar

Mimi introduces Nigel and Fiona to Oscar, an aspiring American author who is wheelchair-bound. As he recounts his turbulent love life with Mimi, tensions start to build within the couple.

Cruise Ship
4

Oscar's Tumultuous Tale

Oscar shares the complexities of his relationship with Mimi, which deeply unsettles Fiona. Meanwhile, Nigel grows increasingly fascinated by the love-hate dynamic between the two.

5

Mimi and Oscar's Relationship

Mimi engages in intense sadomasochistic encounters with Oscar as he reveals a darker, more cruel side. Their relationship spirals, showcasing a conflicted blend of passion and control.

6

Mimi's Obsession

Despite her desire to leave, Mimi finds herself drawn back to Oscar, surrendering her own happiness. She becomes increasingly devoted to him, forsaking her true identity.

7

Mimi's Pregnancy

Mimi discovers she is pregnant and clings to the hope it will lead to a stable life with Oscar. Her situation becomes increasingly precarious as Oscar continues to exhibit selfish behavior.

8

Oscar's Abandonment

In a cruel twist, Oscar abandons Mimi while they are traveling to Martinique, leaving her devastated. This act highlights his true character in their tumultuous relationship.

Flight to Martinique
9

Termination of Pregnancy

Mimi chooses to terminate her pregnancy, leading to a traumatic experience that leaves her emotionally and physically scarred. This event marks a turning point in her already shattered life.

10

Oscar's Downfall

After abandoning Mimi, Oscar indulges in a reckless lifestyle filled with alcohol and fleeting romances. However, his reckless behavior culminates in a drunk-driving accident that leaves him disabled.

11

Return to Paris

Reeling from the breakup and her loss, Mimi returns to Paris, determined but emotionally conflicted. She grapples with her feelings of love and resentment towards Oscar, unable to fully move on.

Paris
12

Mimi Becomes Caretaker

In a twisted act of revenge, Mimi takes on the role of Oscar's caretaker following his accident. This shift in dynamic allows her to exert a sense of control over him while still battling her unresolved emotions.

13

Psychological Manipulation

Mimi engages in a series of psychologically torturous interactions with Oscar. Her actions, ranging from trapping him in a cold bath to gifting him a gun, reflect the turmoil of their past relationship.

14

Fiona's Jealousy

As tensions mount on the cruise ship, Fiona becomes increasingly anxious about Nigel's fascination with Mimi. This jealousy leads her to seek attention from others, complicating the dynamics further.

Cruise Ship
15

Climactic Violence

In a chaotic moment driven by jealousy, Oscar shoots Mimi, shocking both Nigel and Fiona. This violent climax marks a harrowing conclusion to their entangled lives, filled with obsession and emotional turmoil.

Cruise Ship

Last Updated: November 03, 2024 at 22:03

Unlock the Full Story of Bitter Moon

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Bitter Moon Summary

Read a complete plot summary of Bitter Moon, 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.

Bitter Moon Summary

Characters, Settings & Themes in Bitter Moon

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

Characters, Settings & Themes in Bitter Moon

More About Bitter Moon

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More About Bitter Moon

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