Last Tango in Paris

Last Tango in Paris

Year: 1973

Runtime: 136 min

Language: French

Director: Bernardo Bertolucci

DramaRomance

In Paris, a grieving American expatriate, Paul, seeks comfort in a passionate and anonymous relationship with a young French woman named Jeanne. Their intense physical connection unfolds against the backdrop of the City of Love, as they attempt to escape personal tragedies and find solace in each other. However, as their affair deepens, unresolved emotional burdens and unspoken vulnerabilities begin to surface, threatening to shatter their fragile connection.

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Timeline – Last Tango in Paris (1973)

Trace every key event in Last Tango in Paris (1973) 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

Paul's Mourning

Paul, a middle-aged American hotel owner, is struggling deeply with the grief of losing his wife, Rosa, to suicide. This event marks the beginning of his emotional turmoil and sets the tone for his subsequent actions and relationships.

2

Chance Encounter

While looking to rent an apartment, Paul meets Jeanne, a young and engaged woman visiting from Paris. Their instant connection leads to an unexpected and anonymous affair, with strict boundaries set by Paul.

Apartment rental location
3

Anonymous Relationship

As their relationship develops, Paul insists on maintaining anonymity, which frustrates Jeanne. Despite her feelings for him, the lack of personal details leads to increased tension between the two.

4

Violent Turn

In a shocking moment, Paul commits an act of violence against Jeanne, conflicting her feelings further. This act deepens her emotional turmoil, yet she finds herself drawn back to him, unable to escape their complicated bond.

5

Actor's Infatuation

Throughout her affair with Paul, Jeanne is also involved with a film actor who is enamored with her. His tendency to capture their intimate moments on film adds complexity to her feelings and her relationship with Paul.

6

Paul's Abrupt Departure

Paul decides to leave Jeanne without any explanation, causing her heartbreak. She arrives at the apartment only to find that he has vanished, leaving her in a state of confusion and despair.

Apartment
7

Reunion on the Street

After a poignant flashback of his wife, Paul unexpectedly runs into Jeanne on the street. In this chance meeting, he expresses a wish to rekindle their relationship, marking a pivotal moment in their turbulent connection.

Paris street
8

Opening Up

As Paul shares the painful story of his late wife, he begins to open up about his life. This shift away from their initial anonymity blindsides Jeanne, laying the groundwork for deeper emotional conflict.

Tango bar
9

Jeanne's Decision

Confronted with Paul's revelations, Jeanne realizes that she cannot continue in this toxic relationship. She firmly tells Paul that she wants nothing more to do with him, signaling a turning point in their dynamic.

10

Paul's Pursuit

Refusing to accept Jeanne's rejection, Paul passionately pursues her through the winding streets of Paris. His obsession escalates despite her desperate attempts to escape, including threats of calling the police.

Streets of Paris
11

Confrontation at Mother's Residence

Paul forces his way into Jeanne's apartment at her mother's residence, culminating in a dramatic confrontation. He mocks her attempts to flee while professing his love, further intensifying the situation.

Jeanne's mother's apartment
12

The Gun Reveal

In a moment of desperation during the confrontation, Jeanne retrieves a gun from a drawer and reveals her name to Paul. This act signifies her intent to take control of the situation as tensions reach a boiling point.

13

Paul's Fatal Wound

After Jeanne pulls the trigger, Paul is mortally wounded and staggers onto the balcony. This tragic climax highlights the consequences of their turbulent relationship and leaves Jeanne in shock.

14

Jeanne's Reflection

As Paul gasps for breath, Jeanne struggles with the reality of her actions, repeating to herself that he was merely a stranger who tried to assault her. This moment encapsulates her disbelief and the internal chaos she faces.

15

Bracing for Consequences

In the aftermath of the confrontation, Jeanne is left grappling with what just occurred. She prepares herself for the inevitable questioning by the authorities, uncertain of how to explain her actions and the events that unfolded.

Last Updated: November 16, 2024 at 14:51

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Last Tango in Paris Summary

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Last Tango in Paris Summary

Characters, Settings & Themes in Last Tango in Paris

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Characters, Settings & Themes in Last Tango in Paris

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Last Tango in Paris Spoiler-Free Summary

More About Last Tango in Paris

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