Easy Virtue

Easy Virtue

Year: 2009

Runtime: 97 min

Language: English

Director: Stephan Elliott

ComedyRomance

In 1920s England, a passionate romance between John Whittaker and the unconventional American Larita leads to a hasty marriage. Their newfound happiness is threatened when John’s formidable mother, Mrs. Whittaker, disapproves of Larita and attempts to undermine her with sharp wit and social maneuvering. As Larita defends herself against her mother-in-law's schemes, their love and the stability of the marriage are put to a challenging test in a battle of wills.

Warning: spoilers below!

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Timeline & Setting – Easy Virtue (2009)

Explore the full timeline and setting of Easy Virtue (2009). Follow every major event in chronological order and see how the environment shapes the story, characters, and dramatic tension.

Time period

Early 1930s

The early 1930s was a tumultuous time marked by economic challenges and social change following the Great Depression. Traditional values were often at odds with the newly emerging modernity, which is reflected in Larita’s struggles against the conservative Whittaker family. This tension amplifies the film's themes of conformity versus individuality.

Location

Monaco, Flintham, Nottinghamshire

The movie takes place in Monaco, a glamorous city known for its casinos and luxury lifestyle, where Larita and John first meet. From there, they move to a family mansion near Flintham in rural Nottinghamshire, enveloped in the lush English countryside. This estate, however, is marred by family tensions and outdated traditions.

🏰 Mansion 🏞️ Countryside 🌍 Europe

Last Updated: May 13, 2025 at 17:28

Main Characters – Easy Virtue (2009)

Meet the key characters of Easy Virtue (2009), with detailed profiles, motivations, and roles in the plot. Understand their emotional journeys and what they reveal about the film’s deeper themes.

Larita

Larita is a bold and independent woman from Detroit, navigating the complexities of a new life among the conservative Whittaker family. Her adventurous spirit and rebellious nature often lead to misunderstandings and conflict, particularly with her mother-in-law Veronica. As the story progresses, Larita grapples with love, freedom, and ultimately, her desire to escape an oppressive environment.

👩‍🦰 Independent 💔 Misunderstood 🏍️ Adventurous

Veronica Whittaker

Veronica Whittaker is the matriarch of the Whittaker family, embodying traditional values and a disdain for anything modern or unconventional. Her hostility towards Larita stems from her inability to accept her son's choice of a wife, and she uses manipulation to maintain control over the household. As the story unfolds, her bitterness comes to the forefront, ultimately contributing to Larita's desire to leave.

👵 Traditional 😠 Hostile 🔥 Manipulative

John Whittaker

John Whittaker is a conflicted character caught between his love for Larita and the pressures from his family. Initially enamored with his wife, he gradually reveals immaturity and dependency that frustrates Larita. His reluctance to break away from family traditions highlights his struggles for independence and self-identity.

👨‍🦱 Conflicted 💔 Dependent 🌱 Immature

Last Updated: May 13, 2025 at 17:28

Major Themes – Easy Virtue (2009)

Explore the central themes of Easy Virtue (2009), from psychological, social, and emotional dimensions to philosophical messages. Understand what the film is really saying beneath the surface.

🔗 Conformity

The theme of conformity is prevalent as Larita faces the relentless pressures of the Whittaker family to adhere to their outdated customs and beliefs. Her rebellious spirit clashes with their expectations, highlighting the struggle between tradition and personal freedom. This conflict ultimately leads to her decision to assert her independence.

❤️ Love & Sacrifice

Love is depicted in its complex forms, including sacrifice and misunderstanding. Larita's troubled past with her first husband and her tumultuous relationship with John showcase how love can be both uplifting and devastating. The emotional turmoil reflects the depths of human connection and the cost of true affection.

Last Updated: May 13, 2025 at 17:28

Unlock the Full Story of Easy Virtue

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

Easy Virtue Summary

Read a complete plot summary of Easy Virtue, 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.

Easy Virtue Summary

Easy Virtue Timeline

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

Easy Virtue Timeline

More About Easy Virtue

Visit What's After the Movie to explore more about Easy Virtue: 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 Easy Virtue

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