Eiffel

Eiffel

Year: 2022

Runtime: 108 min

Language: French

Director: Martin Bourboulon

BiographyDramaHistoryRomance

As the Statue of Liberty's architect takes a stand at the 1889 Paris World Fair, Romain Duris' Eiffel finds himself torn between duty and desire. A chance encounter with an enigmatic past love (Emma Mackey) rekindles a forbidden passion, prompting him to build his magnum opus: the majestic Eiffel Tower.

Warning: spoilers below!

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Timeline – Eiffel (2022)
Trace every key event in Eiffel (2022) 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

Eiffel Tower Completion

On March 31, 1889, Gustave Eiffel proudly sits in his office atop the newly completed Eiffel Tower, a remarkable achievement standing at a thousand feet. This iron structure symbolizes innovation and ambition, marking a point of triumph in Eiffel's illustrious career.

March 31, 1889 Eiffel Tower, Paris
2

Honorary Citizenship

In September 1886, Eiffel receives recognition for his groundbreaking design for the Statue of Liberty. This award signifies his impact on engineering and international collaboration, and he is honored as an honorary citizen of the United States, celebrating the bond between the two nations.

September 1886
3

The Birth of the Tower Idea

After receiving the award, Eiffel considers his next project for the upcoming World's Fair in Paris in 1889. Despite his employees’ proposal for a 200-meter tower, he initially favors constructing a metro system, reflecting his desire to transform transportation in Paris.

Paris
4

A Meeting with Adrienne

At a society party, Eiffel meets journalist Antoine De Restac's wife, Adrienne, and feels an instant connection. Their encounter rekindles feelings from the past, and Eiffel announces his intention to build a 300-meter steel tower, surprising his peers and reigniting a forgotten passion.

Paris
5

A Heroic Rescue

In Bordeaux, 1860, Eiffel displays his bravery by rescuing a construction worker who fell into the treacherous River Garonne while building an iron bridge. His actions not only save a life but also lead him to meet Adrienne, who ultimately helps him secure the materials he needs for safety.

1860 River Garonne, Bordeaux
6

An Awkward Beginning

At Adrienne's birthday party, Eiffel feels out of place yet finds himself drawn to her. After an awkward kiss, he leaves abruptly, unable to confront his feelings, but Adrienne's boldness pushes her to show up at his office, seeking his affection amidst their tumultuous connection.

7

Plans for the Tower

In 1886, Eiffel presents his plans for the tower to the competition judges, addressing concerns about the stability of the ground. His innovative foundation method near the riverbed showcases his engineering expertise and determination, solidifying his dedication to the project.

1886
8

Winning the Competition

As Eiffel's name is announced as the winner of the tower competition, a significant moment unfolds when he instinctively holds Adrienne's hand. The connection hints at their unresolved past, even as Eiffel begins to face the challenges of turning his vision into reality.

9

Challenge of Strikes

During the tower's construction, Eiffel faces labor unrest as workers threaten to strike due to poor working conditions. Uncertainty looms over the project until Eiffel's commitment to see the tower built becomes evident, convincing the workers to return to their jobs.

10

Revelation and Reunion

Years after their separation, Adrienne confronts Eiffel at a hotel, revealing that she had been pregnant with his child when her parents intervened. Their emotions resurface and rekindle their passionate affair, as they confront the pain of their past.

1886 Cheap hotel
11

Eiffel's Commitment

When banks threaten to withdraw their funding for the tower, Eiffel decides to finance it with his own resources, showcasing his unwavering belief in his project. This risky maneuver galvanizes his workers, who are inspired to support his vision and stop their strike.

12

Construction Breakthrough

Eiffel employs an innovative hydraulic system to ensure the precise alignment of the tower's four pillars at the first level. His ingenuity and determination reveal his masterful engineering skills, pushing the limits of contemporary construction technology.

13

Last-Minute Challenges

With Adrienne's husband, Restac, threatening to ruin Eiffel's reputation, she faces a difficult choice to protect him and the tower. Ultimately, she commits to leaving Paris with Restac, catalyzing a bittersweet ending as she sacrifices her love for Eiffel and his dream.

14

The Tower's Grand Opening

As the Eiffel Tower opens to the public, Eiffel catches a glimpse of Adrienne in the crowd, a poignant encounter filled with unspoken emotions. Their brief connection encapsulates the sacrifices made for the tower, which now stands as a monument to both their love and Eiffel's genius.

Eiffel Tower, Paris
15

A Lasting Tribute

In the aftermath of the grand opening, Eiffel reflects on his creation from the tower’s summit. He sketches 'Adrienne' on his plans, revealing how the tower symbolizes not just an engineering marvel, but a lasting testament to his love for her, forever etched in its structure.

Eiffel Tower, Paris

Last Updated: May 12, 2025 at 07:03

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