Manhattan

Manhattan

Year: 1979

Runtime: 96 min

Language: English

DramaComedyRomance

In Woody Allen's nostalgic ode to Manhattan, Isaac Davis, a disenchanted TV writer, navigates the challenges of middle age after his wife's sudden departure. As he pines for his lost youth, Isaac's self-destructive tendencies lead him down a path of questionable relationships and existential crises, forcing him to reevaluate what truly matters in love, life, and the city that never sleeps.

Warning: spoilers below!

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Timeline – Manhattan (1979)
Trace every key event in Manhattan (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 Isaac

The film opens with a vibrant montage of Manhattan, set to George Gershwin's *Rhapsody in Blue*. We are introduced to Isaac, a 42-year-old comedy writer struggling with writer's block as he tries to pen a novel that captures the essence of the city and its diverse inhabitants.

Manhattan
2

Dinner at Elaine's

Isaac enjoys a dinner at Elaine's restaurant with his 17-year-old girlfriend, Tracy, and friends Yale and Emily. Conversations about luck, art, and courage ensue, but soon shift to concerns about Tracy's age and Isaac's anxieties regarding his ex-wife Jill's new book about their marriage.

Elaine's Restaurant
3

Tension Over Jill's Book

At the dinner, Isaac reveals his distress over Jill writing a book about their tumultuous relationship. This revelation not only weighs on Isaac but also raises concerns about their son Willy, who is caught in the middle of their complex emotions.

4

Confrontation with Jill

Later, Isaac has an unexpected encounter with Jill, where he pleads with her not to publish her book. His concern stems from the potential emotional impact it may have on Willy, reflecting Isaac's desire to protect his son from their troubled past.

5

Isaac and Tracy's Relationship

In a poignant moment at Isaac's apartment, Tracy confesses her love for him. Isaac, however, suggests that she should experience more of life before committing fully to him, highlighting the complexity of their age-gap relationship.

Isaac's Apartment
6

Art Exhibit Encounter

At an art exhibit, Isaac and Tracy run into Yale and his mistress, Mary. A spirited debate on art and philosophy ensues between Isaac and Mary, showcasing their intellectual chemistry while raising the stakes in Isaac's emotional world.

Art Exhibit
7

Isaac Resigns from His Job

Isaac resigns from his job in television due to mounting financial pressures, particularly from alimony and child support obligations. This decision marks a significant turn in his life as he contemplates his personal and professional future.

8

Growing Connection with Mary

A chance encounter leads to a deeper connection between Isaac and Mary at a Museum of Modern Art fundraiser. Their budding relationship intensifies as they share a serene moment watching the sunrise, indicating that Isaac is beginning to move on.

Museum of Modern Art
9

Tracy's Acting Opportunity

Tracy informs Isaac that she has a chance to pursue acting in London. Although Isaac encourages her to explore this opportunity, his own feelings create a tension as he grapples with the thought of them being apart.

Isaac's Apartment
10

Mary's Anxiety

While Isaac supports Tracy's ambitions, Mary voices her anxiety over her affair with Yale. This emotional turmoil complicates Isaac's already tangled web of relationships, forcing him to confront his own feelings of love and attachment.

11

Confronting Past Mistakes

As relationships shift and evolve, Isaac confronts his past mistakes and the consequences of his choices. This phase of self-discovery is filled with joy, confusion, and introspection as he navigates his feelings for both Tracy and Mary.

12

Isaac Reaches Out to Tracy

Just before Tracy's departure for London, Isaac urgently reaches out to her, confessing his love and regret over their complicated relationship. This moment encapsulates his realization of what truly matters to him: a connection with Tracy.

13

Tracy's Assurance

Tracy reassures Isaac of her return after six months, urging him to have faith. This bittersweet moment highlights their mutual feelings while also emphasizing the uncertainty of their future together.

14

Credits Roll

As the film concludes, the haunting melody of *Embraceable You* plays, encapsulating the emotional journey of love and heartbreak. The ending reflects the intricate and often painful dance of relationships that define Isaac's life.

Last Updated: November 16, 2024 at 15:00

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