House of Pleasures

House of Pleasures

Year: 2011

Runtime: 122 min

Language: French

Director: Bertrand Bonello

Drama

Set in 19th-century Paris, this story explores the complex relationships between a reserved doctor, a fervent artist, and a shrewd brothel owner. Their lives intertwine through narratives of love, betrayal, and longing, drawing inspiration from the celebrated short stories of Guy de Maupassant. The film delves into the desires and secrets that lie beneath the surface of a seemingly glamorous society.

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Timeline & Setting – House of Pleasures (2011)

Explore the full timeline and setting of House of Pleasures (2011). Follow every major event in chronological order and see how the environment shapes the story, characters, and dramatic tension.

Time period

1899-1900

This period, known as 'la belle époque', is characterized by relative peace and economic prosperity in France, yet it is also marked by stark social inequalities. While the affluent enjoyed a life of luxury, many women, including those in the brothel, faced harsh realities and limited choices. The film highlights how this era, despite its glamorous facade, was not as beautiful for all, as it exposes the struggles faced by women during this time.

Location

Paris

The film is set in an elegant Parisian brothel during the late 19th century, which epitomizes the opulence and complexity of 'la belle époque'. While the city is often romanticized for its culture and beauty, this portrayal reveals the darker underbelly of societal expectations and the lives of women caught in the sex trade. The juxtaposition of lavish surroundings and the harsh realities of the women's lives paints a poignant picture of the time.

🏙️ City 🏛️ Historical

Last Updated: October 22, 2024 at 19:03

Major Themes – House of Pleasures (2011)

Explore the central themes of House of Pleasures (2011), from psychological, social, and emotional dimensions to philosophical messages. Understand what the film is really saying beneath the surface.

💔 Suffering

The theme of suffering permeates the narrative, showcasing the emotional and physical toll that the life of a prostitute exacts on women. Through haunting imagery and poignant storytelling, the film illustrates the deep pain and social struggle faced by these women, contrasting their experiences with the decadence of their surroundings. It invites viewers to reflect on the enduring struggles related to gender inequality and societal expectations.

⏳ Timelessness

The film emphasizes the notion of timelessness, highlighting how the day-to-day lives of the women in the brothel are marked by monotony and despair. Despite the passage of more than a century, the struggles of women in the sex trade are still relevant today, as evidenced by the modern-day scenes that parallel the historical narrative. This theme urges viewers to consider how little has changed in the treatment of women over time.

💄 Beauty and Deception

The juxtaposition of beauty against the backdrop of suffering is a significant theme in the film. It critiques the glamorization of the lives of sex workers while unveiling the harsh realities they endure. The excessive focus on appearance, cosmetics, and decor masks the emotional turmoil and exploitation that lies beneath, prompting viewers to consider the cost of such beauty in a patriarchal society.

Last Updated: October 22, 2024 at 19:03

Unlock the Full Story of House of Pleasures

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

House of Pleasures Summary

Read a complete plot summary of House of Pleasures, 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.

House of Pleasures Summary

House of Pleasures Timeline

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

House of Pleasures Timeline

More About House of Pleasures

Visit What's After the Movie to explore more about House of Pleasures: 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 House of Pleasures

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