Living

Living

Year: 2022

Runtime: 102 min

Language: English

Director: Oliver Hermanus

Drama

A worn-down everyman, trapped in a monotonous daily grind, embarks on a last-ditch quest for transformation, trading tedium for transcendence as he strives to inject vibrancy into his stagnant existence.

Warning: spoilers below!

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Timeline & Setting – Living (2022)
Explore the full timeline and setting of Living (2022). Follow every major event in chronological order and see how the environment shapes the story, characters, and dramatic tension.

Time period

1953

The year 1953 was a significant time in post-war Britain, marked by recovery and change following World War II. Social issues were prevalent, with communities striving to rebuild and improve their environments. This historical context adds depth to Mr. Williams' dilemma and the struggles of those around him, emphasizing the themes of purpose and legacy.

Location

London, Seaside Resort

London is the bustling capital city of England, known for its rich history, diverse culture, and iconic landmarks. It serves as the backdrop for Mr. Williams' bureaucratic struggles and personal revelations. The seaside resort represents a contrasting serene escape, symbolizing both the protagonist's contemplation of life and his ultimate decision to seek peace.

🏙️ City 🌊 Seaside

Last Updated: October 22, 2024 at 19:04

Main Characters – Living (2022)
Meet the key characters of Living (2022), with detailed profiles, motivations, and roles in the plot. Understand their emotional journeys and what they reveal about the film’s deeper themes.

Rodney Williams

Rodney Williams is a dedicated bureaucrat caught in the throes of a mundane existence, marked by his overwhelming workload and emotional burden. Faced with a terminal cancer diagnosis, he embarks on a journey of self-discovery, seeking redemption by advocating for a children's playground. His transformation reveals a deep longing for connection and purpose in his final days.

👔 Bureaucrat 🏗️ Advocate

Mrs. Smith

Mrs. Smith is a determined and spirited leader of a group advocating for change within their community. She represents the voice of the people, embodying the desire for improvement and the challenges faced when confronting bureaucracy. Her initiative to transform a bomb site into a playground highlights her resilience and commitment to enhancing children's lives.

💪 Activist 🏠 Community Leader

Peter Wakeling

Peter Wakeling is a new recruit in the bureaucratic office, representing a fresh perspective amidst the entrenched complacency. He discovers a letter from Mr. Williams, urging him to remember the project during difficult times. His character symbolizes hope for change and the continuity of Mr. Williams' legacy, reminding the audience of the impact one person can have.

👨‍💼 New Recruit 📜 Legacy Bearer

Last Updated: October 22, 2024 at 19:04

Major Themes – Living (2022)
Explore the central themes of Living (2022), from psychological, social, and emotional dimensions to philosophical messages. Understand what the film is really saying beneath the surface.

⚖️ Redemption

The theme of redemption is central to Mr. Williams' journey as he seeks to find meaning in his life amidst personal turmoil. His engagement with the children's playground project symbolizes his desire to leave a lasting impact, transforming his bureaucratic indifference into proactive efforts for change. This quest for redemption resonates with both his colleagues and family, instigating reflections on one’s legacy.

🕊️ Mortality

Mortality looms large in Mr. Williams' story as he grapples with his terminal cancer diagnosis. The narrative explores his emotional struggle and the weight of unspoken truths with his family. This theme highlights the importance of confronting one's fate and the desire for meaningful connections before one’s time runs out.

👪 Family

Family plays a crucial role in the film, depicting the strained relationship between Mr. Williams and his son, Michael. Their inability to openly communicate about deep-seated emotions reflects the challenges many families face. Throughout the narrative, the relationship embodies longing, love, and the need for understanding as they navigate grief and legacy.

Last Updated: October 22, 2024 at 19:04

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