Tale of Tales

Tale of Tales

Year: 2016

Runtime: 133 min

Language: English

Director: Matteo Garrone

HistoryFantasyHorrorRomance

In this bewitching tapestry of tales, three neighboring kingdoms thrive beneath majestic castles, where monarchs and nobles reign. A libertine king indulges in excess, a monarch becomes entranced by an enigmatic creature, while a queen's fervent desire for a child drives her to madness. Fantastical creatures, from sorcerers to ogres, weave their stories amidst romance, horror, and fantasy, reimagining the timeless tales of Giambattista Basile.

Warning: spoilers below!

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Timeline & Setting – Tale of Tales (2016)
Explore the full timeline and setting of Tale of Tales (2016). Follow every major event in chronological order and see how the environment shapes the story, characters, and dramatic tension.

Time period

The events take place in a fantastical realm that reflects a timeless medieval period. The themes of royal intrigues, magic, and supernatural elements are typical of fairy tales. This era is characterized by strict social hierarchies and the dark desires of its rulers.

Location

Longtrellis, Strongcliff, Highhills

The story unfolds in the enchanting kingdoms of Longtrellis, Strongcliff, and Highhills. Longtrellis is marked by its royal court and the Queen's desperate attempts for motherhood, while Strongcliff is known for its lustful King and dark secrets. Highhills features a bizarre fascination with a peculiar flea, setting the stage for a tale of beauty, brutality, and transformation.

🏰 Kingdom 🌳 Forest

Last Updated: May 04, 2025 at 18:46

Main Characters – Tale of Tales (2016)
Meet the key characters of Tale of Tales (2016), with detailed profiles, motivations, and roles in the plot. Understand their emotional journeys and what they reveal about the film’s deeper themes.

Elias

Elias is the innocent son of a desperate Queen, born from the heart of a sea dragon. His bond with Jonah defines his character, showcasing loyalty and courage. He embarks on a journey to find his friend, showcasing determination in the face of danger.

👶 Innocence 🐉 Friendship

Jonah

Jonah is Elias's twin and inseparable friend, whose life becomes entangled in the Queen's dark plans. His struggle for survival highlights themes of friendship and loyalty, as he navigates betrayal and danger. Jonah’s bravery surfaces as he faces brutal challenges to stay alive.

🗡️ Survival ⚔️ Courage

Dora

Dora is one of the elderly sisters whose desire for beauty leads to tragic consequences. Her pact with the witch transforms her into a beautiful maiden, but her morally questionable decisions set off a chain of events that ruin her sister's life. Dora embodies the complexities of vanity and sacrifice.

👵 Transformation ✨ Beauty

Violet

Violet, the daughter of the King of Highhills, is a victim of her father's misguided choices. Her forced marriage to an ogre reveals her resilience and strength, as she ultimately takes matters into her own hands. Violet's narrative highlights themes of autonomy and defiance against oppression.

👸 Autonomy 🗡️ Defiance

The King of Strongcliff

The lustful King of Strongcliff represents the dangers of unchecked desire and objectification. His fascination leads to tragic outcomes as he discards those who no longer serve his whims. His character illustrates the perils of superficial attraction over genuine connection.

👑 Lust ⚔️ Tragedy

Last Updated: May 04, 2025 at 18:46

Major Themes – Tale of Tales (2016)
Explore the central themes of Tale of Tales (2016), from psychological, social, and emotional dimensions to philosophical messages. Understand what the film is really saying beneath the surface.

🔮 Magic

Magic plays a crucial role in 'Tale of Tales,' driving the narratives of desire, beauty, and terror. The necromancer's influence on the Queen's fate illustrates how power can be wielded to achieve twisted ambitions. Throughout the stories, magical transformations lead to both wondrous and horrific outcomes.

🩸 Violence

Violence is a recurring theme that underscores the characters' desperation and the harsh realities of their choices. From the Queen's murderous desires to Violet's struggle against her fate, the stories highlight how violence begets more violence. The price of ambition is often paid in blood.

👑 Royalty

Royalty and the burdens that come with it are central to the film. The Kings and Queens in the stories navigate their desires and the consequences of their actions. Their quests for power, love, and validation lead to tragic results, revealing the darker side of regal lives.

Last Updated: May 04, 2025 at 18:46

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