La Cage aux Folles

La Cage aux Folles

Year: 1979

Runtime: 97 min

Language: French

Director: Edouard Molinaro

Comedy

A joyous wedding is threatened when Renato and Albin, a long-term couple, must hide their lifestyle from the conservative father of their prospective son-in-law. Albin's talent for drag becomes a comical necessity in maintaining the deception, but the pressure to keep up the charade tests their relationship and threatens to expose their unconventional family.

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Timeline – La Cage aux Folles (1979)

Trace every key event in La Cage aux Folles (1979) 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

Introduction to Saint-Tropez and La Cage aux Folles

In Saint-Tropez on the sunny French Riviera, Albin and Renato run the scandalous nightclub La Cage aux Folles, where transvestites perform. Albin, under the stage name Zaza, is the star performer, and they have been lovers for over 20 years. The setting establishes their vibrant, unconventional lifestyle and close relationship.

Saint-Tropez
2

Laurent's Return and Engagement Announcement

Laurent, Renato's 19-year-old son, arrives home from college in Paris and announces his engagement to Andrea, the daughter of a conservative official. Laurent lies about his family being more respectable to impress Andrea's parents, setting the stage for upcoming conflicts.

Renato's home
3

Revealing Andrea's Parentage and the Heart Attack Scandal

News reports reveal that the elderly president of the Union of Moral Order died of a heart attack while with a young prostitute. Andrea's father, Monsieur Charrier, becomes worried about his reputation due to the scandal, fearing it will affect her upcoming marriage and his political standing.

News outlets, unspecified
4

Preparation for the Dinner with Andrea's Family

Laurent invites Andrea and her parents to meet his family at his residence. Renato adjusts the apartment's decor to look more conservative, removing provocative art to make a better impression and avoid scandal during the visit.

Renato's apartment
5

Renato Reconnects with Past and Asks Simone for Help

Renato visits Simone, his former lover and mother of Laurent, who seduced him 20 years ago. He asks her to attend the dinner and play-act as Laurent's grandmother, but she agrees only if they rekindle their old affair, which Renato refuses. This causes tension and confusion among all involved.

Simone's house
6

Albin Runs Out After Encounter with Simone

Albin witnesses Renato and Simone's attempt to rekindle their past, feeling betrayed and upset. He runs out of the house, and Renato chases after him, ultimately convincing him of his love and importance in his life. Albin then prepares to stay out of sight for the upcoming dinner.

Renato's house and train station
7

Guests Arrive and Tensions Rise

As the dinner begins, the guests, including Monsieur and Madame Charrier, arrive. Renato and Laurent try to hide the true nature of their family, while Albin, dressed as Zaza, arrives in drag and pretends to be Laurent's mother, creating a tense atmosphere. Simone calls to say she's delayed, increasing the suspense.

6:00 PM Renato's apartment
8

Unveiling the Truth During Dinner

The situation turns chaotic when Albin's wig falls off, revealing his identity. Simone arrives, and Albin finally admits that they own the nightclub and are part of the LGBTQ+ community. The revelation shocks the guests, especially Charrier, who is overwhelmed and disturbed.

Renato's apartment
9

Escape of the Charrier Family

Reporters follow Charrier, Andrea, and Madame Charrier to the nightclub, seeking to capture scandalous photos. To escape embarrassment, Albin and Renato dress Charrier in drag, allowing him and his family to leave discreetly amidst the media frenzy, protecting their privacy.

Nightclub and adjoining buildings
10

Wedding of Laurent and Andrea

Some time later, Laurent and Andrea get married in a ceremony attended by friends and family, including Albin. During the celebration, Albin feels jealous because Simone is also present but is comforted by Renato, reaffirming their strong bond and love for each other.

Wedding venue

Last Updated: July 29, 2025 at 06:43

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