Stranger by the Lake

Stranger by the Lake

Year: 2014

Runtime: 97 min

Language: French

Director: Alain Guiraudie

DramaThriller

During a summer in the French countryside, Frank encounters Michel, a mysterious stranger who sparks an intense attraction. As their passionate affair intensifies, a disturbing incident throws them both under suspicion. Entranced by their connection, Frank and Michel find themselves increasingly entangled in a web of danger and desire, struggling to escape the consequences of their actions.

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Timeline – Stranger by the Lake (2014)

Trace every key event in Stranger by the Lake (2014) 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

Franck's Visits to the Beach

Franck frequently visits a nude beach that has become a known cruising spot for gay men. It is here that he becomes acquainted with the vibrant and complex world of relationships and attraction.

Nude Beach
2

Bonding with Henri

At the beach, Franck forms a bond with Henri, an older man who is seeking solace after a breakup. Their conversations reveal Henri's sorrow and wisdom about love and loss, contrasting with Franck's youthful desires.

Nude Beach
3

Attraction to Michel

While spending time at the beach, Franck becomes captivated by Michel, a striking man who instantly draws his attention. This intense attraction begins to consume Franck's thoughts and feelings.

Nude Beach
4

The Shocking Act

One ominous evening, Franck witnesses Michel committing a horrifying act—drowning another man in the lake. This traumatic event leaves Franck terrified, yet he cannot shake off his fascination with Michel.

Lake
5

Covering Up the Truth

As the body of the drowned man is discovered, a police investigator begins questioning the beach regulars. Franck, filled with fear and denial, insists he saw nothing unusual that night, protecting Michel.

Nude Beach
6

Frustrations with Michel

As Franck and Michel's relationship deepens, Franck grows increasingly frustrated with Michel's reluctance to meet anywhere other than the beach. This indicates a growing tension that Franck struggles to navigate.

Nude Beach
7

Henri's Warning

Henri senses the escalating tension between Franck and Michel and warns Franck about Michel's potential danger. His concerns hint at the dark truth lurking behind their passionate connection.

Nude Beach
8

Confrontation in the Woods

During one of Franck's swims, Henri confronts Michel directly, accusing him of murder. This confrontation adds an ominous tone, setting the stage for dire consequences that follow.

Woods
9

Henri's Fate

Henri takes a final walk in the woods, where he ominously glances back at Michel before leaving. Franck later discovers Henri lying lifelessly with his throat cut, leaving him in shock.

Woods
10

Franck's Flight

With Michel's wrath now directed at him, Franck desperately sprints into the woods to escape capture. His instincts to survive take over as he tries to evade the chaos swirling around him.

Woods
11

Witnessing Violence

In a shocking moment, Franck sees Michel attacking the police investigator, plunging a knife into his stomach. This brutal act intensifies the horror of the situation and Franck's need to hide.

Woods
12

Silent Descent into Fear

As night falls, Franck remains hidden, grappling with his fear while Michel calls out for him, professing his need for love. The tension grows as Franck finds himself caught between desire and terror.

Night Woods
13

Echoes in the Darkness

Franck, overwhelmed by his feelings for Michel and the dire circumstances, finally gathers the courage to call out his name into the darkness. The weight of their tumultuous connection hangs heavily in the air.

Night Woods

Last Updated: November 16, 2024 at 16:36

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Stranger by the Lake Summary

Read a complete plot summary of Stranger by the Lake, 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.

Stranger by the Lake Summary

Characters, Settings & Themes in Stranger by the Lake

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Characters, Settings & Themes in Stranger by the Lake

More About Stranger by the Lake

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More About Stranger by the Lake

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