The Barefoot Contessa

The Barefoot Contessa

Year: 1954

Runtime: 128 min

Language: English

Director: Joseph L. Mankiewicz

DramaMysteryRomanceCrime

In Madrid's vibrant nightlife, a washed-up director named Harry Dawes discovers Maria Vargas, a captivating peasant woman. He persuades her to become the star of his comeback film, drawn to her unique beauty. As Maria’s fame grows, she finds herself caught between the allure of Hollywood glamour, the possessiveness of financier Kirk Edwards, and a deep longing for her authentic self.

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Timeline & Setting – The Barefoot Contessa (1954)

Explore the full timeline and setting of The Barefoot Contessa (1954). Follow every major event in chronological order and see how the environment shapes the story, characters, and dramatic tension.

Time period

The film seems to be set in a contemporary mid-20th century environment, reflecting the social dynamics and entertainment culture of the time. The world of glamorous movie making and high society play crucial roles, handling themes of fame, ambition, and the often dark undertones of personal relationships.

Location

Rome, Madrid, Monte Carlo, Riviera

The movie takes place in vibrant cities known for their rich culture and elegance. Rome, with its historical charm, serves as a backdrop for the initial discovery of Maria Vargas. Madrid's lively nightlife offers a glamorous setting for her debut, while the opulent Monte Carlo and the luxurious Riviera capture the allure of fame and fortune.

🏙️ Cities 🎭 Glamour

Last Updated: October 22, 2024 at 21:25

Main Characters – The Barefoot Contessa (1954)

Meet the key characters of The Barefoot Contessa (1954), with detailed profiles, motivations, and roles in the plot. Understand their emotional journeys and what they reveal about the film’s deeper themes.

Harry Dawes (Humphrey Bogart)

Harry Dawes is a once-successful movie director grappling with his past and present failures in the film industry. He possesses a deep appreciation for artistry, which drives him to mentor Maria. Despite his struggles, his persistence and connection with Maria reveal his caring nature and unfulfilled aspirations.

🎬 Director 💔 Mentor

Maria Vargas (Ava Gardner)

Maria Vargas is a vibrant and ambitious dancer who emerges from a troubled personal life into the limelight. Her confident and spirited demeanor masks her deeper struggles with identity and love. Despite her glamorous success, her personal journey is marred by betrayal and tragedy.

💃 Star 🌹 Tragic Heroine

Kirk Edwards (Warren Stevens)

Kirk Edwards is a demanding and ambitious business tycoon focused on producing a hit film. His controlling nature and obsession with Maria create friction that leads to conflict within the story. His character showcases the often ruthless side of Hollywood and its impact on personal relationships.

💼 Tycoon 🚫 Antagonist

Alberto Bravano (Rossano Brazzi)

Alberto Bravano is a charming Latin American playboy who adds a layer of tension to Maria's life with his romantic advances. His interests in Maria drive a wedge between her and Kirk, ultimately showcasing the competing desires for her affections. Alberto embodies the allure and peril of fame.

🏖️ Playboy 🎭 Rival

Oscar Muldoon (Edmond O'Brien)

Oscar Muldoon is the clever publicist assisting Harry in making Maria a star. His wit and resourcefulness highlight the often-overlooked behind-the-scenes figures in the film industry. His eventual shift of loyalty marks a turning point in the narrative's conflict.

📈 Publicist 🕵️‍♂️ Strategist

Last Updated: October 22, 2024 at 21:25

Major Themes – The Barefoot Contessa (1954)

Explore the central themes of The Barefoot Contessa (1954), from psychological, social, and emotional dimensions to philosophical messages. Understand what the film is really saying beneath the surface.

🎥 Fame

Fame is a pivotal theme in 'The Barefoot Contessa.' Maria's rise to stardom transforms not only her life but also impacts those around her, particularly Harry and Kirk. The fleeting nature of fame is echoed through Maria's ultimate tragic fate.

❤️ Love and Betrayal

The complexities of love and betrayal permeate the story, particularly in Maria's relationships with Kirk and Vincenzo. Her struggle between desire and devotion leads to devastating consequences, showcasing the fragility of love under societal pressures.

🎭 Identity

Identity plays a significant role throughout the film as Maria navigates her personal ambitions and societal expectations. Her journey reflects the conflict between her public persona as a star and her private struggles, ultimately questioning what truly defines one's identity.

Last Updated: October 22, 2024 at 21:25

Unlock the Full Story of The Barefoot Contessa

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

The Barefoot Contessa Summary

Read a complete plot summary of The Barefoot Contessa, 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 Barefoot Contessa Summary

The Barefoot Contessa Timeline

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

The Barefoot Contessa Timeline

More About The Barefoot Contessa

Visit What's After the Movie to explore more about The Barefoot Contessa: 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 Barefoot Contessa

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