Stage Beauty

Stage Beauty

Year: 2004

Runtime: 106 min

Language: English

Director: Richard Eyre

Drama

During the 17th century in London, Ned Kynaston achieves stardom thanks to Maria's exceptional ability to craft convincing female characters, though she remains hidden and constrained by the conventions of the time. When royal patronage alters the landscape of the theatre, Maria resolves to step out of the shadows and claim her place on stage, seeking help from the rising star she mentored as they both confront a changing world of theatrical possibilities.

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Timeline & Setting – Stage Beauty (2004)

Explore the full timeline and setting of Stage Beauty (2004). Follow every major event in chronological order and see how the environment shapes the story, characters, and dramatic tension.

Time period

17th Century

The 17th century was a period marked by significant artistic and cultural developments in England, especially during the reign of King Charles II. This era witnessed the restoration of the monarchy, which greatly influenced the arts, leading to a flourishing of theatre. However, it also saw rigid societal norms, particularly regarding gender roles, limiting opportunities for women in performance.

Location

London

The movie takes place in 17th century London, a hub of theatrical activity and cultural change. Known for its vibrant theatre scene, it served as a backdrop for groundbreaking performances and societal shifts, especially regarding gender roles in the arts. The local tavern where Maria performs symbolizes the emerging spaces for female actors in a traditionally male-dominated field.

🏰 Theatrical 🎭 Arts 🏛️ Historic

Last Updated: October 22, 2024 at 22:12

Main Characters – Stage Beauty (2004)

Meet the key characters of Stage Beauty (2004), with detailed profiles, motivations, and roles in the plot. Understand their emotional journeys and what they reveal about the film’s deeper themes.

Ned Kynaston (Billy Crudup)

Ned Kynaston is a celebrated actor best known for his captivating performances in female roles. As a man on the brink of losing his relevance, he exemplifies the challenges faced by artists amidst changing societal norms. His vulnerability, paired with a yearning to reclaim his lost glory, portrays the complexities of an artist's identity.

🎭 Actor 😔 Vulnerability 🌟 Fame

Maria (Claire Danes)

Maria is a passionate dresser who aspires to be an actress despite the restrictions placed on women. Her determination to embody her true self as Margaret Hughes showcases her strength and talent. As her star rises, she grapples with her complexities of ambition and the gaps she perceives between herself and Kynaston.

👩‍🎤 Aspiration 💪 Strength 🎉 Performer

Last Updated: October 22, 2024 at 22:12

Major Themes – Stage Beauty (2004)

Explore the central themes of Stage Beauty (2004), from psychological, social, and emotional dimensions to philosophical messages. Understand what the film is really saying beneath the surface.

🌟 Ambition

The theme of ambition is central to the film, particularly embodied in Maria's character, who defies societal constraints to pursue her passion for acting. Her rise to prominence contrasts starkly with Kynaston's decline, highlighting the different paths taken driven by ambition. This struggle reveals the complexities of ambition within the barriers of gender and societal expectations.

💔 Rejection

Rejection plays a pivotal role in Kynaston's journey as he faces the fallout of changing theatrical norms and the personal betrayal from his lover. His struggle to adapt in a landscape that no longer values his talents leads to profound emotional turmoil. The theme also resonates with Maria, who navigates her own fears and obstacles in an unforgiving environment.

👩‍🎤 Identity

Identity emerges as a significant theme, especially through Maria's transformation into Margaret Hughes. Her journey reflects the fluidity of identity in performance and the constraints imposed by society. Kynaston’s struggle with his identity and the roles he must abandon brings to light the deeper questions of self-worth and recognition in the world of theatre.

Last Updated: October 22, 2024 at 22:12

Unlock the Full Story of Stage Beauty

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

Stage Beauty Summary

Read a complete plot summary of Stage Beauty, 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.

Stage Beauty Summary

Stage Beauty Timeline

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

Stage Beauty Timeline

More About Stage Beauty

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

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