Madrid, 1987

Madrid, 1987

Year: 2012

Language: Spanish

Director: David Trueba

Drama

In the heat of 1987 Madrid, journalist Miguel finds himself drawn into a complex relationship with the driven student Ángela. Their charged encounters ignite a battle between desire and inspiration, forcing them to confront personal ambitions and the profound societal changes sweeping through Spain as the nation moves beyond the legacy of Franco's dictatorship. They must navigate a landscape of shifting values and personal conflict.

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Timeline – Madrid, 1987 (2012)

Trace every key event in Madrid, 1987 (2012) 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

First Encounter

In the scorching summer of 1987, Miguel, a seasoned journalist, meets Ángela, an ambitious journalism student, at a local diner. Ángela interviews Miguel for her essay, drawing out his thoughts and opinions, while Miguel is critical of her youthful idealism.

Summer 1987 Diner
2

Invitation to Luis' House

After their intense conversation at the diner, Miguel invites Ángela to Luis' empty house. Though hesitant, Ángela agrees, looking forward to a more candid discussion about journalism away from public scrutiny.

Luis' House
3

Revealing Flaws

At Luis’ house, Miguel inspects the paintings and criticizes their imperfections, drawing parallels to his own life's flaws. Despite Ángela's protests, Miguel insists that these imperfections are part of the beauty of art and life.

Luis' House
4

Shift in Dynamics

As the night progresses, Miguel begins to dismantle Ángela's idealistic views while sharing jaded advice through sharp sarcasm. The atmosphere becomes charged, leading to an unexpected kiss that surprises Ángela.

Luis' House
5

Breaking Boundaries

The encounter takes a provocative turn when Miguel suggests that Ángela strip, asserting his authenticity. Ángela resists, demonstrating the tension between their mentor-mentee relationship and the burgeoning romantic interest.

Luis' House
6

Unexpected Return

Just when it seems their encounter has reached its peak, Ángela returns bearing vulnerability, leading Miguel to paint her. Their artistic moment signifies a deepening intimacy as they navigate this unexpected connection.

Luis' House
7

Locked in Tension

While washing off paint, the couple finds themselves locked in the bathroom, amplifying the sense of intimacy and entrapment. Their conversations shift dramatically as they navigate their feelings and mounting anxiety.

Bathroom
8

Revelation of Backgrounds

As they talk, Ángela reveals her connections to a notable fascist soldier, prompting Miguel to share his tumultuous history with fascists and his previous romantic interest in her sister. This revelation adds complexity to their interaction.

Bathroom
9

Climactic Tension

In a moment of overwhelmed attraction, Miguel traces Ángela's form while she attempts to call for help. The burgeoning intimacy turns precarious as tensions rise between their desires and personal boundaries.

Bathroom
10

Moment of Surrender

As inhibitions continue to fade, Ángela disrobes, signaling a deepening connection with Miguel. Their passionate entanglement symbolizes a shared transformation that transcends their initial mentor-mentee dynamic.

Bathroom
11

Guilty Conscience

After their intimate encounter, Miguel expresses guilt, igniting anger in Ángela. She criticizes his self-centered actions, threatening to incorporate his remarks into her essay about their tumultuous night.

Bathroom
12

Whimsical Storytelling

To alleviate the tension, Miguel begins to tell a whimsical story about a boy who refuses to leave his bed. This story, framed cinematically, serves as a distraction from the realities of their situation.

Bathroom
13

Luis' Arrival

Their playful moment is disrupted by the unexpected return of Luis, alerted by a concerned worker. Ángela hastily dresses and leaves, but not before leaving her glasses behind as a poignant reminder of their charged evening.

Luis' House
14

Reflections on the Encounter

After Ángela's departure, Luis questions Miguel about the possibility of seeing her again. Miguel philosophically responds, hinting at the unresolved dynamics of their encounter and the lingering impact on both of their lives.

Luis' House
15

Open-Ended Departure

Ángela walks home through a serene neighborhood, surrounded by laughter and music. The final scene leaves her fate ambiguous, inviting viewers to reflect on her transformative experience and its significance.

Neighborhood

Last Updated: November 18, 2024 at 20:51

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Madrid, 1987 Summary

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Characters, Settings & Themes in Madrid, 1987

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