Franklyn

The film unfolds in the present-day, early 21st century, with a parallel fantasy city existing alongside real London. Modern institutions and everyday urban life appear throughout, grounding the narrative in contemporary settings. The war memory of Basra and the trauma felt by the characters hint at recent global conflicts shaping their choices.

Meanwhile City is a comic book–like metropolis where citizens are compelled to adopt a religion. London serves as the real-world counterpart, housing Emilia's studies and the hospital where crucial events unfold. The shelter for the homeless, the restaurant where Milo's date with Sally occurs, and the Basra backdrop ground the story in tangible urban spaces.

🪞 Reality

Two intertwined narratives blur the line between real and imagined. Meanwhile City represents a constructed reality enforced by religious dogma, while London anchors the viewer in the ordinary world. The twist reveals that these constructs are shaped by trauma and memory. The film asks how much of experience is chosen by the mind versus imposed by circumstance.

✝️ Religion

Meanwhile City imposes religion by law, making Preest the sole atheist in a controlled society. The clash between belief and disbelief drives conflict and critique of blind faith. Preest’s resistance highlights the tension between individual conscience and collective dogma. The narrative uses this tension to explore meaning, control, and rebellion.

🧠 Trauma

Trauma from war, abuse, and loss threads through multiple characters. Emilia’s past abuse and her coping through art shape her world view; Peter’s guilt over his son’s trauma frames his outlook. Basra’s war memory grounds the characters’ fears and reactions. The story shows how trauma can distort reality and propel drastic actions.

🧩 Identity

Characters assume different identities: Milo fabricates a romantic illusion with Sally; David’s self-image as a heroic figure drives violent actions; Emilia navigates self-perception while reconciling with her mother. The film examines how identity is performed under stress and how truth can be fractured by perception. The intertwined realities reveal the consequences of living as someone else.