Paper Moon

Paper Moon

Year: 1973

Runtime: 102 min

Language: Chinese

Director: Peter Bogdanovich

DramaComedyCrime

A poignant tale unfolds as a struggling kite maker's life is forever changed by his whirlwind romance with a free-spirited heiress, their unlikely love threatened by the weight of her inheritance and the societal expectations that come with it.

Warning: spoilers below!

Haven’t seen Paper Moon yet? This summary contains major spoilers. Bookmark the page, watch the movie, and come back for the full breakdown. If you're ready, scroll on and relive the story!

Timeline & Setting – Paper Moon (1973)
Explore the full timeline and setting of Paper Moon (1973). Follow every major event in chronological order and see how the environment shapes the story, characters, and dramatic tension.

Time period

Early 1930s

The early 1930s was a tumultuous time in America, marked by the Great Depression which deeply impacted the economy and daily life. It was an era of both hardship and resilience, where people sought innovative ways to cope and survive amidst widespread financial struggles.

Location

St. Joseph, Missouri

St. Joseph, Missouri, is a historical city known for its rich heritage and role in the westward expansion of the United States. It features charming architecture and a vibrant culture, making it an intriguing backdrop for adventures and escapades.

🏙️ City 🌆 Historical

Last Updated: October 22, 2024 at 19:22

Main Characters – Paper Moon (1973)
Meet the key characters of Paper Moon (1973), with detailed profiles, motivations, and roles in the plot. Understand their emotional journeys and what they reveal about the film’s deeper themes.

Addie

Addie is a 9-year-old girl who is clever and fiercely protective of her interests. Despite her young age, she shows great emotional intelligence, quickly adapting to the con artist lifestyle alongside Moses. Her resourcefulness and determination make her a formidable partner in crime.

👧 Child 🎭 Manipulative 💪 Resourceful

Moses Pray

Moses Pray is a charming yet morally ambiguous con artist whose past is shrouded in deceit. His charismatic personality serves as a double-edged sword, allowing him to manipulate others while also forging a unique bond with Addie. His journey reflects personal growth as he navigates his feelings toward his young partner.

🕴️ Con Artist 🤵 Charismatic 🌪️ Troubled

Trixie Delight

Trixie Delight is a captivating showgirl and the object of Moses' romantic interest. She represents the fleeting nature of relationships in the transient world of carnival life, leading to envy and rivalry with Addie. Despite her charm, her choices reveal the superficiality of the connections she forms.

🎤 Showgirl 💔 Deceptive 🌟 Glamorous

Last Updated: October 22, 2024 at 19:22

Major Themes – Paper Moon (1973)
Explore the central themes of Paper Moon (1973), from psychological, social, and emotional dimensions to philosophical messages. Understand what the film is really saying beneath the surface.

💰 Deception

Deception plays a central role in 'Paper Moon,' driving the plot and shaping the characters' relationships. Moses and Addie engage in various cons, revealing the lengths individuals will go for financial gain and survival, all while highlighting the intricate dance between trust and betrayal.

👧 Coming of Age

The film embodies a coming-of-age story through Addie's character, who evolves from a mourning child into a cunning and resourceful partner in crime. Her journey illustrates the loss of innocence amidst the adult world's complexities, as she navigates relationships and moral dilemmas.

❤️ Unconventional Bonds

The theme of unconventional bonds is prevalent in the dynamic between Moses and Addie. Their relationship, founded on manipulation and shared misdeeds, blossoms into one of genuine connection, exploring the complexities of familial ties and loyalty amid adversity.

Last Updated: October 22, 2024 at 19:22

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