Doctor Zhivago

Doctor Zhivago

Year: 1965

Runtime: 197 min

Language: English

Director: David Lean

DramaRomanceWar

During the Russian Revolution, Yuri Zhivago, a young physician, finds his life irrevocably altered by his intense feelings for the mysterious Lara Guishar. His peaceful world is shattered as he struggles through the turmoil of war and conflicting emotions, caught between his commitment to his wife, Tonya, and the powerful, enduring love he shares with Lara.

Warning: spoilers below!

Haven’t seen Doctor Zhivago 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 & Setting – Doctor Zhivago (1965)

Explore the full timeline and setting of Doctor Zhivago (1965). Follow every major event in chronological order and see how the environment shapes the story, characters, and dramatic tension.

Time period

Early 20th century, during World War I and Russian Revolution

Set against the backdrop of early 20th century Russia, the film captures the turmoil of World War I and the subsequent Russian Revolution. This period was marked by dramatic societal changes, upheaval, and a sense of uncertainty, affecting all walks of life. The personal struggles of the characters mirror the larger historical shifts occurring around them.

Location

Moscow, Varykino, Central Asia

The movie primarily takes place in Moscow, a vibrant city known for its rich history and cultural significance. Varykino, a rural estate, serves as a sanctuary for the characters, contrasting the chaos of urban life amidst the Russian Revolution. Central Asia also features, illustrating the roots and early life of Yuri Zhivago.

🏙️ City 🌳 Countryside 🏞️ Region

Last Updated: October 22, 2024 at 19:26

Main Characters – Doctor Zhivago (1965)

Meet the key characters of Doctor Zhivago (1965), with detailed profiles, motivations, and roles in the plot. Understand their emotional journeys and what they reveal about the film’s deeper themes.

Yuri Zhivago

Yuri Zhivago is a compassionate doctor and a talented poet, characterized by his deep appreciation for life and the human experience. His journey through love, loss, and war reflects a profound sensitivity and resilience. Caught between duty to his family and his passionate love for Lara, Yuri symbolizes the struggle of an individual in a chaotic world.

🩺 Doctor 📝 Poet ❤️ Tragic Hero

Lara

Lara is a passionate and strong-willed woman who finds herself entangled in a complex love story with Yuri. Her character embodies both vulnerability and strength, often navigating the harsh realities of her environment. Lara's fierce love for Yuri illustrates the enduring nature of their bond amidst overwhelming obstacles.

❤️ Lover 🌹 Strong Female 😢 Tragic Fate

Yevgraf Zhivago

Yevgraf is a high-ranking Russian General on a personal quest to reconnect with his lost niece, showcasing a blend of authority and familial loyalty. His character is layered, representing both the struggles of the individuals affected by war and the complexities of family ties. Throughout the film, Yevgraf serves as a reminder of the bonds that persist despite societal chaos.

👮‍♂️ General 🌌 Family 🔍 Seeker

Komarovsky

Komarovsky is a wealthy and powerful man who represents the darker side of love and obsession. His tumultuous relationship with Lara highlights themes of control and desire, providing a stark contrast to the pure love shared between Yuri and Lara. His character embodies the moral ambiguities of the time.

💼 Manipulator 💔 Obsession 😏 Antagonist

Tonya

Tonya is Yuri's devoted wife, who grapples with the challenges of love and loyalty in a time of upheaval. Her character represents the struggles of women during this tumultuous period, balancing familial responsibilities with personal heartbreak. Tonya's journey reflects resilience and emotional strength as she navigates her husband's complex relationships.

👩‍❤️‍👨 Wife 🤱 Mother 🌟 Resilient

Last Updated: October 22, 2024 at 19:26

Major Themes – Doctor Zhivago (1965)

Explore the central themes of Doctor Zhivago (1965), from psychological, social, and emotional dimensions to philosophical messages. Understand what the film is really saying beneath the surface.

💔 Love and Loss

The theme of love and loss is central to the narrative, as Yuri and Lara's relationship embodies a passionate yet tumultuous journey. Their connection is fraught with societal pressures and personal sacrifices, illustrating the heartache that often accompanies love. The film poignantly explores how war and circumstance can separate loved ones, creating a legacy of nostalgia and unresolved emotions.

🌍 War and Conflict

War serves as a backdrop that alters the lives of all characters, showcasing its devastating impact on personal relationships. The Russian Revolution and World War I deeply affect Yuri's life choices and his bond with Lara, highlighting the chaos and human cost of conflict. This theme underscores the fragility of peace and the struggle for survival amidst strife.

🕰️ Time and Memory

Time plays a crucial role in the film, as characters grapple with memories of their past and their longing for what was lost. The passage of time serves to deepen the emotional resonance of the story, reflecting on how experiences shape identities and relationships. Moments of reunion and separation highlight the inevitable march of time and its impact on human connections.

Last Updated: October 22, 2024 at 19:26

Unlock the Full Story of Doctor Zhivago

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

Doctor Zhivago Summary

Read a complete plot summary of Doctor Zhivago, 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.

Doctor Zhivago Summary

Doctor Zhivago Timeline

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

Doctor Zhivago Timeline

More About Doctor Zhivago

Visit What's After the Movie to explore more about Doctor Zhivago: 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 Doctor Zhivago

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