Orlando

Orlando

Year: 1993

Runtime: 93 min

Language: English

Director: Sally Potter

BiographyDramaFantasyRomance

Following a decree from Queen Elizabeth I, the nobleman Orlando is granted a magical gift: the ability to live for centuries and experience life from both male and female perspectives. The film chronicles his extraordinary journey across four hundred years, exploring themes of love, identity, and societal change. From the Elizabethan court to the vibrant salons of the 18th century and into the modern age, Orlando's experiences challenge conventional notions of gender and belonging as he searches for self-discovery and acceptance in a changing world.

Warning: spoilers below!

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Timeline & Setting – Orlando (1993)

Explore the full timeline and setting of Orlando (1993). Follow every major event in chronological order and see how the environment shapes the story, characters, and dramatic tension.

Time period

1600s to early 1990s

The narrative spans several centuries, beginning in the Elizabethan era around 1600 AD, a time marked by the death of Queen Elizabeth I. It continues through pivotal moments in history such as encounters with poets and political upheaval, reaching into the early 1990s, encapsulating the evolution of gender roles and societal expectations over time.

Location

Elizabethan England, Ottoman Empire

The movie takes place primarily in Elizabethan England, a vibrant period known for its cultural flourishing and the reign of Queen Elizabeth I. Key locations include Orlando's newly acquired castle after receiving a land grant. Additionally, significant events unfold in the Ottoman Empire, characterized by its rich history and complex political landscape.

🏰 Castle 🌍 Empire

Last Updated: October 22, 2024 at 19:23

Main Characters – Orlando (1993)

Meet the key characters of Orlando (1993), with detailed profiles, motivations, and roles in the plot. Understand their emotional journeys and what they reveal about the film’s deeper themes.

Orlando (Tilda Swinton)

Orlando is an androgynous nobleman who defies the constraints of time and gender in pursuit of identity and love. Throughout the centuries, she experiences profound transformations that shape her understanding of self and society. As she navigates love, creativity, and societal expectations, Orlando emerges as a complex figure embodying resilience and introspection.

👑 Noble 📖 Poet 💃 Androgynous

Sasha (Charlotte Valandrey)

Sasha is the enchanting daughter of a Russian diplomat, representing the allure and complexity of love in Orlando's life. Their relationship, filled with passion and misunderstandings, forces Orlando to confront the nature of love and loyalty. Sasha's departure from Orlando's life marks a pivotal moment of heartbreak and self-discovery.

❤️ Love Interest 🌎 Diplomat's Daughter

The Khan (Lothaire Bluteau)

The Khan is the English ambassador's close companion in the Ottoman Empire, providing Orlando with insights into the world beyond her own. Their shared experiences highlight the importance of camaraderie in times of political strife. The Khan's presence symbolizes the blending of cultures and the personal connections forged amid conflict.

🤝 Friend 🌍 Ambassador

Last Updated: October 22, 2024 at 19:23

Major Themes – Orlando (1993)

Explore the central themes of Orlando (1993), from psychological, social, and emotional dimensions to philosophical messages. Understand what the film is really saying beneath the surface.

💔 Love & Loss

The film intricately explores themes of love and loss through Orlando's relationships, particularly with Sasha and Shelmerdine. Each love story is influenced by societal expectations and personal obligations, leading to heartache and choices that define Orlando's journey. The theme highlights the complexity of love against the backdrop of history and personal evolution.

⚖️ Gender Identity

Orlando's transformation into a woman serves as a powerful commentary on gender identity and fluidity. The film challenges traditional gender roles, showcasing the societal constraints placed on individuals based on their gender. Through Orlando's life experiences, it questions the essence of identity and the impact of societal norms.

📜 Art & Legacy

As Orlando delves into poetry and relationships with literary figures, the theme of art and legacy emerges. The film illustrates the struggle for recognition and validation in the creative world, reflecting on how one's work is perceived through the lens of gender. Orlando's quest for literary success represents the broader search for meaning and impact in a changing world.

Last Updated: October 22, 2024 at 19:23

Unlock the Full Story of Orlando

Don't stop at just watching — explore Orlando in full detail. From the complete plot summary and scene-by-scene timeline to character breakdowns, thematic analysis, and a deep dive into the ending — every page helps you truly understand what Orlando is all about. Plus, discover what's next after the movie.

Orlando Summary

Read a complete plot summary of Orlando, including all key story points, character arcs, and turning points. This in-depth recap is ideal for understanding the narrative structure or reviewing what happened in the movie.

Orlando Summary

Orlando Timeline

Track the full timeline of Orlando with every major event arranged chronologically. Perfect for decoding non-linear storytelling, flashbacks, or parallel narratives with a clear scene-by-scene breakdown.

Orlando Timeline

More About Orlando

Visit What's After the Movie to explore more about Orlando: box office results, cast and crew info, production details, post-credit scenes, and external links — all in one place for movie fans and researchers.

More About Orlando

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