Swiss Family Robinson

Swiss Family Robinson

Year: 1940

Runtime: 93 min

Language: English

Director: Edward Ludwig

Adventure

In 1810s London, Swiss-born William Robinson senses unease in the air and makes the fateful decision to set sail with his family for Australia, only to find themselves shipwrecked on a remote island after a devastating storm. With resourcefulness and resilience, they forge a new life, harnessing the wreckage's bounty to build a self-sufficient haven amidst the vast Pacific wilderness.

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Timeline & Setting – Swiss Family Robinson (1940)
Explore the full timeline and setting of Swiss Family Robinson (1940). Follow every major event in chronological order and see how the environment shapes the story, characters, and dramatic tension.

Time period

Napoleonic Wars era

The story unfolds during the Napoleonic Wars, a time marked by significant political upheaval and conflict in Europe. This backdrop drives the Swiss family to seek a new life away from the turmoil, setting the stage for their adventure on the island. The period’s dangers are heightened by the presence of pirates, further complicating their journey.

Location

Uninhabited Island, New Guinea

The movie takes place on an uninhabited island, where the Swiss family manages to establish their new home after being shipwrecked. This lush tropical setting is teeming with wildlife, offering both beauty and danger, notably with the presence of a lurking tiger. Eventually, the island is speculated to have once been linked to Africa and Asia via a land bridge.

🏝️ Island 🌍 New Guinea

Last Updated: October 22, 2024 at 21:42

Main Characters – Swiss Family Robinson (1940)
Meet the key characters of Swiss Family Robinson (1940), with detailed profiles, motivations, and roles in the plot. Understand their emotional journeys and what they reveal about the film’s deeper themes.

Father

The patriarch of the Swiss family, Father demonstrates resourcefulness and bravery in the face of adversity. He takes the lead in constructing their new home and devising clever tactics to protect his family from pirate threats. His determination to maintain a sense of family unity and safety is a driving force in the story.

🛠️ Resourceful 🌳 Protective

Fritz

Fritz, the eldest son, is adventurous and courageous, often taking the lead during explorations. He develops a romantic bond with Roberta that adds complexity to his character as he balances his feelings with family dynamics. His bravery is highlighted in various encounters with wildlife and pirates.

🌊 Adventurous ❤️ Romantic

Ernst

Ernst, the middle son, is intellectual and thoughtful, often speculating about the island's history and making plans for the future. He shares a competitive relationship with his brother Fritz, particularly in their affection for Roberta. His aspirations for education and a life beyond the island reflect his character's depth.

📚 Thoughtful 🤔 Competitive

Francis

The youngest son, Francis, displays curiosity and enthusiasm for the island's wildlife. His playful character contributes to the family's adventures, particularly in capturing animals and celebrating holiday festivities. His innocence and joy provide a heartwarming contrast to the more serious challenges they face.

🐾 Curious 🎉 Joyful

Roberta

Roberta is a spirited girl who embodies resilience and resourcefulness. Disguised as a boy to escape from pirates, her strong character quickly endears her to the Swiss family. She becomes a central figure in the romantic tension between Fritz and Ernst while proving herself in various escapades.

🦸‍♀️ Resilient ❤️ Intriguing

Last Updated: October 22, 2024 at 21:42

Major Themes – Swiss Family Robinson (1940)
Explore the central themes of Swiss Family Robinson (1940), from psychological, social, and emotional dimensions to philosophical messages. Understand what the film is really saying beneath the surface.

🏴‍☠️ Adventure

Adventure is central to the family's story as they navigate the challenges of survival on the uninhabited island. From constructing a tree house to encountering pirates and exploring the wild jungle, their journey is filled with thrilling encounters. The siblings' explorations also lead to a rescue mission and the discovery of new friendships amidst danger.

💔 Romance

The theme of romance is woven throughout the tale, particularly with the relationship dynamics between Fritz and Roberta. Their budding romance unfolds amidst the tension of family rivalry, and the situation is further complicated by the arrival of pirates. This theme highlights the personal stakes and emotional growth of the characters as they navigate their feelings.

⚔️ Conflict

Conflict shapes the family's experience as they deal with external threats from pirates and internal struggles regarding their future. The pressures of survival force the family to fortify their home and develop defenses against the pirates pursuing them. Personal conflicts arise as Fritz and Ernst compete for Roberta's affection, adding layers to the story.

Last Updated: October 22, 2024 at 21:42

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