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 – The Barefoot Contessa (1954)

Trace every key event in The Barefoot Contessa (1954) 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

Harry's Struggles

Harry Dawes, once a celebrated movie director, now finds himself struggling to make ends meet. He is forced to work under the demanding and ambitious businessman Kirk Edwards, who aims to produce a glamorous new film.

2

Casting Maria

In search of a stunning leading lady for Kirk's new film, Harry and Kirk travel from Rome to a vibrant nightclub in Madrid. It is here that they discover the enchanting dancer Maria Vargas, who immediately captivates Harry's interest.

Madrid
3

Maria's Defiance

Maria Vargas is a spirited woman who leads a carefree life, often going barefoot. Although she admires Harry's past work, she holds a strong disdain for Kirk and initially tries to flee from their conversation.

4

Convincing Maria

Harry, determined to have Maria join their project, tracks her down to her family home. He manages to persuade her to come to the United States, offering her a chance to launch her cinematic career.

5

Maria's Success

With Harry's direction and the slick publicist Oscar Muldoon's help, Maria's film debut becomes an immense success. This achievement not only catapults Maria to stardom but also revitalizes Harry's fading career.

6

Tensions Rise

During a gathering at Maria's home, Kirk and the dashing playboy Alberto Bravano clash over their affections for her. Alberto invites Maria to join him on his yacht in the glamorous Riviera, stirring Kirk's jealousy.

Maria's Home
7

Alberto's Offer

Feeling stifled by Kirk's controlling nature, Maria accepts Alberto's invitation. Meanwhile, Oscar Muldoon decides to shift his loyalty to Alberto, tired of being in Kirk's shadow.

8

Monte Carlo Casino Incident

At the Monte Carlo Casino, after losing a significant amount, Alberto publicly lashes out at Maria. This escalates into a confrontation with Count Vincenzo Torlato-Favrini, who stands up for her and escorts her away.

Monte Carlo Casino
9

Finding Love with Vincenzo

Maria finds solace in the company of Count Vincenzo and his widowed sister Eleanora. Their romance blooms, leading to an extravagant wedding ceremony where Harry serves as the best man.

Vincenzo's Palazo
10

A Hidden Truth

Despite their romantic union, the reality of Vincenzo's lineage looms over them. He keeps his impotence a secret from Maria, which threatens the continuation of his noble bloodline.

11

Desperate Confession

Months later, Maria confides in Harry about her husband's impotence and reveals her shocking news: she is pregnant by another man. Determined to secure the future of the Torlato-Favrini name, she plans to tell her husband.

12

Tragic Discovery

After their conversation, Harry follows Vincenzo, who is tailing Maria. He arrives too late to prevent a calamity, witnessing Vincenzo in a furious rage, fatally shooting both Maria and her lover before she can disclose her pregnancy.

The Palazo
13

The Funeral

The tragic narrative reaches its conclusion at Maria's funeral, echoing her unfulfilled dreams. As Harry grapples with the loss, flashbacks recount the series of events that led to this heartbreaking finale.

14

Vincenzo's Arrest

The aftermath of the murder results in Vincenzo's arrest by the police, marking the end of a tragic love story filled with ambition, passion, and the high cost of desires.

Last Updated: November 16, 2024 at 18:06

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The Barefoot Contessa Summary

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The Barefoot Contessa Summary

Characters, Settings & Themes in The Barefoot Contessa

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Characters, Settings & Themes in The Barefoot Contessa

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