Bright Star

In 1818, Fanny Brawne is introduced to the poet John Keats through the Dilke family. Keats is aloof, while Fanny's lively charm draws his attention. This initial meeting plants the seeds of a growing connection.

Fanny's siblings obtain Keats's book Endymion, which triggers her pursuit. Keats initially rebuffs her advances and keeps his distance. Their early exchanges are courteous but restrained.

Keats witnesses Fanny's grief for his brother Tom, a moment that begins to melt his reserve. He starts engaging more with her and sharing time together. Their growing closeness hints at a deeper bond.

During Christmas with the Brawne family, Keats gives Fanny poetry lessons. Their conversations reveal a mutual attraction and a shared love of poetry. The emotional connection deepens despite their caution.

Fanny's mother voices concern that Keats has no real income or living, questioning the viability of a match. The family worries about financial security and social acceptance. The tension tests their budding romance.

A valentine card from Brown triggers a confrontation; Keats questions whether Fanny's intentions are serious. Brown warns that Fanny may be playing a flirtatious game. Hurt, Fanny ends their lessons and withdraws.

In the spring, the Dilkes move to Westminster, leaving the Brawnes with half of the house and six months' rent. The change alters their daily lives and the pace of their relationship. Keats and Fanny begin to navigate a new living arrangement.

Keats and Fanny resume their interaction and fall deeply in love. They spend time together, reading and sharing poems, letting their feelings grow openly. The romance becomes a central part of their lives.

Keats and Brown depart for a summer holiday to earn money, leaving Fanny heartbroken. Keats continues to write love letters that keep the connection alive. The separation tests the strength of their bond.

When autumn arrives, Fanny's mother voices worries about potential suitors, but Fanny and Keats secretly become engaged. They shelter their commitment from public scrutiny while planning a future together. Their secret engagement marks a deeper vow.

Keats contracts tuberculosis the following winter and spends weeks recovering. Friends raise funds to enable him to winter in Italy for a milder climate. The illness casts a pall over their plans but binds them closer.

Brown impregnates a maid and cannot accompany Keats to Italy, forcing him to stay in London for the summer. Keats finds accommodation with the Brawnes after an illness relapse. Friends continue raising funds for his next winter in Italy.

Keats's book sells with moderate success, providing some financial relief. Fanny's mother ultimately blesses the idea of marriage after he returns from Italy. The couple shares a tearful goodnight on the eve of his departure.

Keats travels to Italy for treatment and dies there in February from tuberculosis complications. His death echoes the fate of his brother Tom. The romance ends with his passing, marking the poet's death.

In the film's closing moments, Fanny cuts her hair, dons black, and walks the snowy paths Keats had walked. She recites his love sonnet Bright Star, expressing grief and enduring devotion. The scene encapsulates the lasting memory of their romance.