King of the Gypsies

King of the Gypsies

Year: 1978

Runtime: 112 min

Language: English

Director: Frank Pierson

Drama

A young man attempts to claim his inheritance within a Gypsy kingdom, setting off a fierce conflict with his powerful and traditional father. Eric Roberts stars as the heir, while Judd Hirsch portrays the patriarch whose authority is challenged. The film explores themes of legacy, ambition, and the clash between ancient customs and modern desires, all set against the backdrop of a hidden, underground world. A thrilling power struggle ensues as the kingdom's fiery legacy is tested.

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Timeline & Setting – King of the Gypsies (1978)

Explore the full timeline and setting of King of the Gypsies (1978). Follow every major event in chronological order and see how the environment shapes the story, characters, and dramatic tension.

Time period

20th Century

The film takes place in the 20th Century, a time of significant social change and cultural evolution. This era witnessed the clash between traditional lifestyles and the allure of modernity, influencing characters' choices and their struggle for identity.

Location

Gypsy Camp, New York City

The Gypsy Camp serves as a traditional setting for the unfolding familial and cultural drama, characterized by its close-knit community and vibrant customs. New York City represents a stark contrast, showcasing a bustling urban environment where the characters grapple with their identities amid the modern world.

🏕️ Camp 🌆 City

Last Updated: January 14, 2025 at 22:11

Main Characters – King of the Gypsies (1978)

Meet the key characters of King of the Gypsies (1978), with detailed profiles, motivations, and roles in the plot. Understand their emotional journeys and what they reveal about the film’s deeper themes.

Dave

Dave is a complex character torn between his gypsy roots and his aspirations for a different life. Initially involved in petty crimes, he evolves into a figure grappling with familial loyalty and the crown's burdens. His rebellious spirit and ultimate rejection of his father's ways drive the narrative forward.

👦 Protagonist 🔄 Transformation

Groffo

Groffo, as Dave's father, embodies the oppressive traditions of their gypsy heritage. His abusive nature and desperate desire to maintain control create a tragic antagonist in Dave’s journey. His eventual downfall underscores the destructive consequences of his actions and beliefs.

👨‍👦 Antagonist 🚫 Violence

Rose

Rose is a resilient mother figure caught in the turmoil of her family's struggles and societal expectations. Her love for her children and frustration with Groffo's actions reflect the emotional weight of her role, as she desperately seeks a better life for her children.

👩 Mother ❤️ Sacrifice

Zharko

Zharko, the elder and king of the gypsies, serves as the bridge between the past traditions and the future leadership. His ill health and desire for a suitable successor create a sense of urgency and foreshadow the conflicts that ensue as he attempts to guide Dave.

👴 Elder 📜 Legacy

Tita

Tita is Dave's sister, representing the innocent victims of familial and cultural traditions. Her role emphasizes the stakes in the family drama, as her arranged marriage reflects the harsh reality of their lifestyle, leading to tragic consequences for her and her brother.

👧 Innocence 💔 Tragedy

Last Updated: January 14, 2025 at 22:11

Major Themes – King of the Gypsies (1978)

Explore the central themes of King of the Gypsies (1978), from psychological, social, and emotional dimensions to philosophical messages. Understand what the film is really saying beneath the surface.

👑 Kingship

The theme of kingship runs throughout the movie, exploring the burdens and expectations of leadership in the gypsy community. Dave's reluctance to accept the role as king highlights the generational conflict between tradition and personal ambition, showcasing how power can be both a responsibility and a curse.

🛣️ Identity

Identity is a central theme, reflecting each character's struggle between gypsy heritage and their desire for a different life. Dave's journey illustrates the tension between cultural obligations and the pursuit of a 'normal' existence, showcasing the complexity of personal identity in a changing world.

💔 Family Conflict

Family conflict permeates the film, presenting themes of abuse, loyalty, and betrayal within a deeply flawed family structure. The tensions between Dave, his father Groffo, and his mother Rose depict the tragic consequences of familial expectations and the fight for personal autonomy.

Last Updated: January 14, 2025 at 22:11

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King of the Gypsies Summary

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King of the Gypsies Summary

King of the Gypsies Timeline

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King of the Gypsies Timeline

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King of the Gypsies Spoiler-Free Summary

More About King of the Gypsies

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