Ragtime

Ragtime

Year: 1981

Runtime: 155 min

Language: English

Director: Milos Forman

Drama

Against the backdrop of a rapidly changing America, between 1902 and the years following World War I, the lives of a wealthy suburban family, a struggling black musician, and a Latvian immigrant intertwine. Each family confronts challenges rooted in class, race, and the pursuit of the American dream. Their individual stories reveal the profound social and racial tensions shaping the nation during a transformative era.

Warning: spoilers below!

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Timeline & Setting – Ragtime (1981)

Explore the full timeline and setting of Ragtime (1981). Follow every major event in chronological order and see how the environment shapes the story, characters, and dramatic tension.

Time period

Early 1900s, specifically 1906-1908

The film navigates the societal changes and tensions of the early 1900s, a period marked by industrial growth and social struggles. This era saw significant events, including racial discrimination and the fight for justice, underscoring the conflicts between privilege and poverty that defined the age.

Location

New York City, New Rochelle

The movie is set against the bustling backdrop of New York City during the early 20th century, known for its cultural dynamism and historical events. New Rochelle serves as a tranquil suburban setting, representing the contrast between upper-class comfort and the stark realities faced by marginalized communities.

🏙️ City 🌳 Suburb

Last Updated: October 22, 2024 at 20:17

Main Characters – Ragtime (1981)

Meet the key characters of Ragtime (1981), with detailed profiles, motivations, and roles in the plot. Understand their emotional journeys and what they reveal about the film’s deeper themes.

Coalhouse Walker, Jr. (Howard E. Rollins Jr.)

Coalhouse Walker, Jr. is a proud and determined African American pianist whose life is turned upside down due to systemic racism. His journey from a hopeful father to a figure of desperation highlights the struggles faced by marginalized individuals seeking justice and dignity in a prejudiced society.

🎹 Musician ✊ Activist

Evelyn Nesbit (Elizabeth McGovern)

Evelyn Nesbit is a complex character torn between her past as a chorus girl and her tumultuous present. As she navigates various relationships and societal pressures, her search for personal freedom and identity amidst chaos becomes a poignant part of her story.

🎭 Performer 💔 Love Interest

Younger Brother

The Younger Brother is a symbol of youthful idealism and conflicting loyalties, torn between his family’s expectations and his own desires. His infatuation with Evelyn and subsequent involvement in Coalhouse's struggle illustrate the excitement and danger of navigating one’s beliefs during tumultuous times.

💡 Idealist 🔥 Passionate

Last Updated: October 22, 2024 at 20:17

Major Themes – Ragtime (1981)

Explore the central themes of Ragtime (1981), from psychological, social, and emotional dimensions to philosophical messages. Understand what the film is really saying beneath the surface.

⚖️ Justice

The theme of justice is central to 'Ragtime,' as characters grapple with the consequences of systemic racism and personal injustices. Coalhouse Walker's quest for reparation following racial violence illustrates the broader societal struggles for equality and dignity, revealing the moral complexities of the pursuit of justice.

💔 Sacrifice

Interpersonal and cultural sacrifices are evident in the film, where characters make profound choices in response to the socio-political climate. Evelyn's journey and the choices made by Coalhouse and his family highlight the emotional toll of navigating a world rife with prejudice and personal loss.

🏛️ Cultural Conflict

The film addresses the clash of cultures and social classes, portraying characters from different backgrounds whose lives intertwine amid turmoil. This theme reflects on the stark contrasts in American society, as seen through individual stories of ambition, prejudice, and the fight for recognition.

Last Updated: October 22, 2024 at 20:17

Unlock the Full Story of Ragtime

Don't stop at just watching — explore Ragtime 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 Ragtime is all about. Plus, discover what's next after the movie.

Ragtime Summary

Read a complete plot summary of Ragtime, 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.

Ragtime Summary

Ragtime Timeline

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

Ragtime Timeline

More About Ragtime

Visit What's After the Movie to explore more about Ragtime: 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 Ragtime

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