Silk

Silk

Year: 2007

Runtime: 107 min

Language: English

Director: François Girard

DramaRomance

Set in 19th-century Japan, this romantic drama follows a French officer on a mission to obtain silkworm eggs. His quest unexpectedly leads him to become captivated by a mysterious concubine. As he pursues his objective, he finds himself entangled in a complex web of forbidden love and cultural differences, facing perilous challenges and experiencing a journey filled with beauty, passion, and ultimately, heartbreak.

Warning: spoilers below!

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Timeline – Silk (2007)

Trace every key event in Silk (2007) 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

Hervé's Reflection

The film opens with Hervé Joncour pondering a mysterious Asian woman while she bathes in a hot spring. This moment foreshadows the deep emotional journey that will unfold throughout the film.

Hot Spring
2

Return to Hometown

Hervé returns to his hometown in France during his military leave in the 19th century. Here, he meets Hélène, a passionate teacher whose dream of a beautiful garden captures his heart.

Hometown, France
3

Blossoming Romance

Hervé and Hélène's relationship develops into a passionate affair, filled with both joy and complexity. Their love not only transforms their lives but also intertwines with their dreams and aspirations.

4

Baldabiou's Proposition

Baldabiou, a local entrepreneur, recognizes Hervé's potential and persuades his father to release him from military service. This decision allows Hervé to pursue his love for Hélène while embarking on a mission to save the silk trade.

Silk Mills
5

Journey to Egypt

In 1862, Hervé embarks on a journey to Egypt to acquire silkworm eggs vital for the silk industry. This trip lasts over two months and marks the beginning of Hervé's adventurous quests.

1862 Egypt
6

Expedition to Japan

Following the silkworm crisis in Africa, Baldabiou sends Hervé on a dangerous expedition to Japan. The journey is arduous, involving months of travel across continents by various means, illustrating Hervé's commitment to his mission.

Japan
7

Meeting Hara Jubei

Upon reaching Japan, Hervé is blindfolded and taken to a secluded village where he meets Hara Jubei, a local baron. Jubei holds the key to acquiring the essential silkworm eggs, setting the stage for Hervé's pivotal encounters.

Secluded Village, Japan
8

Fateful Encounter with the Girl

During his stay, Hervé becomes enchanted by Jubei's concubine, simply referred to as the Girl. This unexpected romance complicates Hervé's mission and intertwines his heart with profound longing.

Jubei's Residence, Japan
9

Return to Wealth

After successfully acquiring the silkworm eggs, Hervé returns home a wealthy man. He uses his newfound riches to create an opulent home and garden for Hélène, aiming to solidify their relationship.

Home, France
10

Conflict with Schuyler

As tensions rise, Schuyler, a gun-trading Dutch merchant, warns Hervé about Jubei's true intentions. This adds another layer of conflict to Hervé's already tumultuous journey of love and ambition.

11

Return to Japan

Despite Baldabiou’s suggestion to send him to China, Hervé insists on returning to Japan, driven by his emotions. However, upon arrival, he discovers that the village has been deserted due to the outbreak of war.

Japan
12

Devastating Returns

Hervé faces hostility from Jubei while attempting to fulfill his mission, resulting in disastrous consequences for the silk trade. His efforts lead to the town's economic collapse, illustrating the unpredictable nature of ambition and love.

13

A Letter from the Girl

Months later, Hervé receives a heartfelt letter from the Girl, translated by Madame Blanche. In it, she warns him not to return, expressing her love but prioritizing his happiness over their connection.

14

Hélène's Passing

Tragedy strikes when Hélène falls ill and passes away in 1875. Hervé is left to grapple with his grief, visiting her grave and uncovering the poignant truth of her love for him through a bouquet of small blue flowers.

1875 Graveyard, France
15

The Legacy of Love

The film concludes with Hervé sharing his experiences with Ludovic, the son of a friend. Through this act of storytelling, he emphasizes the intertwined themes of love, sacrifice, and the lasting beauty of the garden he built with Hélène.

Last Updated: November 03, 2024 at 13:20

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Silk Summary

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Silk Summary

Characters, Settings & Themes in Silk

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Characters, Settings & Themes in Silk

More About Silk

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More About Silk

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