Desperately Seeking Susan

Desperately Seeking Susan

Year: 1985

Runtime: 104 min

Language: English

Director: Susan Seidelman

DramaComedy

In this offbeat comedy-drama, a stifled New Jersey housewife named Roberta Glass (Rosanna Arquette) shakes up her mundane existence by scanning personal ads for a thrill. Enthralled by enigmatic Susan's (Madonna) provocative postings, Roberta sneaks into a Battery Park tryst, only to wake up with amnesia and a new identity. As she navigates this unfamiliar world, Roberta attracts unwanted attention from shady characters.

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Timeline & Setting – Desperately Seeking Susan (1985)
Explore the full timeline and setting of Desperately Seeking Susan (1985). Follow every major event in chronological order and see how the environment shapes the story, characters, and dramatic tension.

Time period

Set in a contemporary urban environment, the film captures the 1980s vibe characterized by eclectic fashion and the rise of tabloid culture. The era reflects issues around identity, self-discovery, and societal expectations, all influential themes in Roberta's journey. This period is crucial as it encapsulates a time when personal connections were often pursued through unconventional means.

Location

Fort Lee, New Jersey, New York City, Battery Park, Atlantic City, Magic Club

The movie takes place primarily in Fort Lee, New Jersey, and New York City, with significant scenes in Battery Park, known for its stunning views of the Statue of Liberty and bustling atmosphere. Atlantic City serves as the backdrop for the mob-related drama and reveals the darker side of Susan's life. The Magic Club is a vibrant venue that adds an element of mystique and excitement to the story.

🏙️ Cities 🎡 Entertainment 🌊 Waterfront

Last Updated: October 22, 2024 at 22:49

Main Characters – Desperately Seeking Susan (1985)
Meet the key characters of Desperately Seeking Susan (1985), with detailed profiles, motivations, and roles in the plot. Understand their emotional journeys and what they reveal about the film’s deeper themes.

Roberta Glass

Roberta is a discontented housewife yearning for excitement and purpose in her mundane life. Her fascination with Susan drives her to take unexpected risks, ultimately leading to a journey of self-discovery. As she steps into Susan's world, Roberta transforms from a passive observer to an active participant, reflecting the struggle between societal expectations and personal aspirations.

🎭 Drama 💁‍♀️ Transformation 🔍 Discovery

Susan Thomas

Susan is a free-spirited and enigmatic woman whose life is filled with complex relationships and conflicts. Her boldness and charm often lead her into trouble, yet she embodies a sense of adventure that captivates those around her. As the plot unfolds, Susan becomes a symbol of the search for identity and the consequences of living on the edge.

✨ Free Spirit 💔 Love 🔥 Adventure

Dez

Dez is a charming and resourceful friend who inadvertently finds himself drawn into Roberta's whirlwind. He offers her support and friendship amid the chaos, representing a potential new beginning for her. As he navigates his own feelings for Roberta, Dez becomes a pivotal character in her journey towards self-realization.

🛵 Supportive ❤️ Connection 🎩 Mystery

Gary

Gary is Roberta's husband, whose infidelity adds tension to the narrative. His actions not only create a rift in their marriage but also drive Roberta further into her exploration of identity and fulfillment. As he grapples with his own guilt and desires, Gary's character showcases the complexities of love and betrayal.

💔 Betrayal 🔄 Conflict 🏃‍♂️ Escape

Last Updated: October 22, 2024 at 22:49

Major Themes – Desperately Seeking Susan (1985)
Explore the central themes of Desperately Seeking Susan (1985), from psychological, social, and emotional dimensions to philosophical messages. Understand what the film is really saying beneath the surface.

🧩 Identity

The theme of identity runs throughout the film as Roberta grapples with her sense of self while inadvertently stepping into Susan's life. The confusion between their identities forces both women to confront their true selves and desires, illustrating the complexities of personal discovery. As they navigate their intertwined destinies, the film raises questions about who they truly are versus who they want to be.

💔 Relationships

Relationships play a pivotal role in the narrative, exploring themes of love, infidelity, and the search for connection. Roberta's disillusioned marriage and her husband's betrayal starkly contrast against her newfound connection with Dez. Additionally, Susan's ties with Jim and Meeker highlight the precarious nature of love amidst chaos and danger.

✨ Adventure

Roberta's spontaneous adventure, sparked by her obsession with Susan, leads her through a whirlwind of events filled with unexpected challenges and encounters. This theme emphasizes the excitement and unpredictability of stepping out of one’s comfort zone. The film showcases how adventure can catalyze transformation, as Roberta evolves from a discontented housewife into a woman reclaiming her agency.

Last Updated: October 22, 2024 at 22:49

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