Metropolitan

Metropolitan

Year: 1990

Runtime: 98 min

Language: English

Director: Whit Stillman

DramaComedyRomance

In this offbeat romance, a rebellious outsider stirs up change among Manhattan's elite, sparking unexpected connections and challenging the status quo. As a circle of affluent friends gathers in their uptown haven, they're shaken by the arrival of a provocative newcomer, whose contrarian views ignite a transformative journey of self-discovery and social awakening.

Warning: spoilers below!

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Timeline & Setting – Metropolitan (1990)
Explore the full timeline and setting of Metropolitan (1990). Follow every major event in chronological order and see how the environment shapes the story, characters, and dramatic tension.

Time period

Christmas break, 1980s

The film is set during the festive Christmas break, a time characterized by extravagance, social gatherings, and a flourish of debutante balls. The 1980s atmosphere encapsulates a unique blend of cultural shifts and social dynamics, impacting the characters' interactions and ideals. The era's opulence serves as a backdrop for the unfolding drama and romance.

Location

New York City, Upper East Side

New York City serves as the vibrant backdrop for the film, symbolizing affluence and high society. The Upper East Side, known for its luxurious apartments and elite gatherings, showcases the extravagant lifestyle of the socialites the story revolves around. This setting emphasizes the stark contrast between Tom's humble background and the opulent world he finds himself navigating.

🏙️ City 🎉 Celebrations

Last Updated: October 22, 2024 at 19:22

Main Characters – Metropolitan (1990)
Meet the key characters of Metropolitan (1990), with detailed profiles, motivations, and roles in the plot. Understand their emotional journeys and what they reveal about the film’s deeper themes.

Tom Townsend

Tom is a Princeton student navigating the complexities of affluent social life with a mix of humor and introspection. He grapples with feelings of inadequacy stemming from his family's issues, creating a relatable depth to his character. His romantic interests spark tension, revealing a longing for genuine connection amidst superficiality.

🎓 Student ❤️ Romantic 🤔 Introspective

Nick Smith

Nick is the charming ringleader of the 'Sally Fowler Rat Pack,' whose witticisms often mask deeper insecurities. His jovial personality contrasts with his philosophical critiques of Tom, reflecting the complexities of friendship within their elite circle. There's a magnetic quality to Nick that draws others into his playful banter and social charisma.

💖 Charismatic 🥳 Socialite 🧐 Intelligent

Audrey Rouget

Audrey is a pivotal figure in Tom's emotional journey, representing both allure and depth. Her reactions to Tom's affections and the resulting turmoil showcase her sensitivity and complexity. As Tom's romantic interest, she embodies the tension between longing and self-awareness within the social elite.

💃 Elegant ❤️ Conflicted 🥀 Sensitive

Last Updated: October 22, 2024 at 19:22

Major Themes – Metropolitan (1990)
Explore the central themes of Metropolitan (1990), from psychological, social, and emotional dimensions to philosophical messages. Understand what the film is really saying beneath the surface.

💔 Romantic Conflict

The central theme revolves around Tom's struggle to navigate his feelings for two very different women, Audrey and Serena. This conflict is exacerbated by societal expectations and the complexities of friendships within the elite social circle. The tensions that arise highlight the intricacies of love and relationships amidst the backdrop of a lavish holiday.

🗣️ Social Ideologies

The film explores themes of political beliefs and individual ideals, primarily through Tom's exchanges with Charlie. Their debates serve to critique societal norms and highlight the diverse perspectives of the affluent youth. This theme underscores the film's emphasis on self-discovery against a backdrop of privilege and expectation.

Last Updated: October 22, 2024 at 19:22

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