The African Queen

The African Queen

Year: 1952

Runtime: 105 min

Language: English

AdventureDramaRomanceWar

During World War I, a headstrong missionary and a cynical riverboat captain are thrown together and embark on a perilous journey across the African continent. As they navigate dangerous rapids and evade enemy forces, they forge an unlikely connection and confront their personal challenges amidst the chaos of war. Their adventure tests their courage and reveals unexpected depths within themselves.

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Timeline & Setting – The African Queen (1952)

Explore the full timeline and setting of The African Queen (1952). Follow every major event in chronological order and see how the environment shapes the story, characters, and dramatic tension.

Time period

World War I

The narrative unfolds during World War I, a period marked by global conflict and intense military actions affecting many countries. The backdrop of war adds urgency and stakes to the characters' journey, with the German occupation presenting imminent threats to their lives. The portrayal of war's impact on civilians in remote areas highlights the struggle for survival amidst chaos.

Location

African village, Ulanga River, Lake Victoria, German colony in Africa

The movie primarily takes place in a remote African village characterized by grass huts and a small wooden church. The Ulanga River, which runs nearby, is crucial as it becomes a perilous route for the characters trying to escape German soldiers. Lake Victoria serves as the destination and embodiment of hope, representing possible freedom from the tyranny of war.

🌍 Location 🏞️ Natural Beauty ⛵ Coastal

Last Updated: May 27, 2025 at 13:20

Main Characters – The African Queen (1952)

Meet the key characters of The African Queen (1952), with detailed profiles, motivations, and roles in the plot. Understand their emotional journeys and what they reveal about the film’s deeper themes.

Rose Sayer (Katharine Hepburn)

Rose, an English spinster, exhibits strength and resourcefulness in the face of dire circumstances. Initially depicted as meek and fragile, her character grows into a determined woman whose love for Mr. Allnut pushes her to take courageous risks. Her unwavering determination is a driving force in their quest against the odds.

💪 Strong Woman 🥇 Determination 🌹 Love

Charlie Allnut (Humphrey Bogart)

Mr. Charlie Allnut, a rugged and cynical boat captain, represents the reluctant hero. He initially embodies apathy and alcohol dependency but gradually reveals layers of bravery and ingenuity. His relationship with Rose transforms him, showcasing how love can inspire a person to rise above their flaws.

⚓ Captain 🍺 Cynic ❤️ Lover

Last Updated: May 27, 2025 at 13:20

Major Themes – The African Queen (1952)

Explore the central themes of The African Queen (1952), from psychological, social, and emotional dimensions to philosophical messages. Understand what the film is really saying beneath the surface.

❤️ Love

Romantic love blossoms between Rose and Mr. Allnut as they navigate the dangers of their journey. Initially filled with friction, their relationship evolves into a deep bond forged by adversity. Their love becomes a source of strength as they confront life-threatening challenges together, embodying resilience in the face of despair.

⚔️ Courage

The theme of courage is prevalent as the characters face overwhelming odds in their endeavor to escape the German threat. Rose’s determination to fight back and Mr. Allnut's reluctant bravery depict how courage can emerge in the most challenging of circumstances. Their audacity to confront danger adds an inspiring aspect to their survival journey.

🌊 Adventure

The film encapsulates a thrilling adventure as Rose and Mr. Allnut navigate the treacherous Ulanga River. With dangers lurking at every turn—ranging from wild animals to hostile soldiers—their journey is a testament to human spirit and notions of exploration. The unpredictable nature of their expedition signifies the essence of adventure amidst chaos.

Last Updated: May 27, 2025 at 13:20

Unlock the Full Story of The African Queen

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

The African Queen Summary

Read a complete plot summary of The African Queen, 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.

The African Queen Summary

The African Queen Timeline

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

The African Queen Timeline

The African Queen Spoiler-Free Summary

Get a quick, spoiler-free overview of The African Queen that covers the main plot points and key details without revealing any major twists or spoilers. Perfect for those who want to know what to expect before diving in.

The African Queen Spoiler-Free Summary

More About The African Queen

Visit What's After the Movie to explore more about The African Queen: 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 The African Queen

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