Force Majeure

Force Majeure

Year: 2014

Runtime: 120 min

Language: Swedish

Director: Ruben Östlund

DramaComedy

While enjoying a ski vacation in the French Alps, a Swedish family's idyllic lunch is shattered by an avalanche. During the chaos, the father's instinctive reaction to prioritize his own safety—and his failure to protect his family—is revealed, deeply affecting his wife and children. The incident exposes underlying tensions within the marriage and forces them to confront uncomfortable truths about their relationship and Tomas's role as a husband and father. The experience irrevocably alters their dynamic and leaves them questioning their future together.

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Timeline – Force Majeure (2014)

Trace every key event in Force Majeure (2014) 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

Arrival at the Resort

Tomas and his family arrive at a luxurious resort located in the French Alps for their much-anticipated vacation. The picturesque surroundings set the stage for what they hope will be a relaxing and enjoyable getaway.

French Alps
2

Avalanche Incident

While enjoying an outdoor meal on their second day, the family witnesses a controlled avalanche, a terrifying sight that creates immediate panic. In a moment of fear, Tomas records the scene on his phone but ultimately abandons Ebba and their children to escape the unfolding chaos.

French Alps Resort
3

Fog Lifts

As the fog from the avalanche clears, it becomes evident that no one was harmed in the incident. This revelation provides a moment of relief for Ebba, but it does not erase the tension that has begun to build between her and Tomas.

French Alps Resort
4

Dinner with Friends

That evening, the family dines with one of Ebba's friends, who has invited an American man. During dinner, Ebba expresses her frustrations regarding Tomas's cowardice during the avalanche, leading to an intense disagreement that leaves everyone uncomfortable.

French Alps Resort
5

Ebba Goes Skiing Alone

Feeling the weight of the argument and the growing distance in their relationship, Ebba decides to ski alone the next day. While skiing, she confronts her friend about her own reckless behavior and begins to reflect deeply on her marriage to Tomas.

French Alps
6

Mats Arrives

One of Tomas's old friends, Mats, arrives at the resort with his girlfriend, Fanny. The group shares an uneasy dinner where tensions resurface as Ebba recounts the avalanche incident yet again, heightening the discomfort among those present.

French Alps Resort
7

Showing the Avalanche Video

Ebba decides to show everyone the recorded footage of the avalanche, prompting discussions about Tomas's actions during the incident. Mats brings up how people react differently in crises, leading to speculation about Tomas's true feelings of cowardice.

French Alps Resort
8

Primal Scream

During a ski lift ride, Mats encourages Tomas to release his pent-up emotions through primal screaming. This moment allows Tomas to confront his feelings of inadequacy, providing him with a cathartic release in front of his children.

Ski Lift in French Alps
9

Fog Thickens Again

On their final day at the resort, thick fog sets in once more as the family prepares to leave. Tomas takes charge, instructing the children, but when Ebba gets lost, he briefly abandons the kids to find her, heightening the complexity of their relationship.

French Alps
10

Chaotic Journey Down the Mountain

As they travel down the mountain, anxiety mounts when Ebba panics about the driver's skills. Mats tries to maintain order, stressing the importance of prioritizing women and children during the chaotic exit, showcasing the challenges in their dynamics.

French Alps
11

Tomas's Change in Behavior

Amidst the chaos of exiting the bus, Tomas surprisingly accepts a cigarette from a stranger. This sudden shift in behavior shocks Harry, compelling him to question his father's actions after a smoke-free vacation, representing the family's evolving dynamics.

Mountain Road
12

End of the Vacation

As the family leaves the resort, each member grapples with the emotional fallout from the avalanche incident. The vacation has irrevocably altered their relationships, leading them to confront their feelings about courage, trust, and family.

French Alps

Last Updated: November 16, 2024 at 14:46

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