The Beach

The Beach

Year: 2000

Runtime: 119 min

Language: English

Director: Danny Boyle

AdventureDramaThriller

A young American traveler, Richard, searches for something real while backpacking through Thailand. He obtains a map promising a hidden, idyllic beach and persuades a French couple to join him on a challenging expedition to find it. They discover a secluded paradise, but soon realize the community’s existence is threatened by internal conflicts and the potential intrusion of the outside world, forcing them to confront a dangerous reality.

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Timeline & Setting – The Beach (2000)

Explore the full timeline and setting of The Beach (2000). Follow every major event in chronological order and see how the environment shapes the story, characters, and dramatic tension.

Time period

The film unfolds in a contemporary setting, echoing the late 1990s when the story was released. This era was marked by a growing interest in backpacking culture and the search for hidden paradises, as well as a rising awareness of the consequences of tourism.

Location

Bangkok, Koh Samui, Thailand

Bangkok is a vibrant city known for its bustling street life, ornate temples, and rich cultural history. It serves as a starting point for Richard's quest for adventure. Koh Samui, an island in the Gulf of Thailand, offers idyllic beaches and an enchanting atmosphere, but also reveals a darker side with its hidden marijuana plantation and guarded secrets.

🏝️ Island 🌆 City

Last Updated: January 14, 2025 at 22:04

Main Characters – The Beach (2000)

Meet the key characters of The Beach (2000), with detailed profiles, motivations, and roles in the plot. Understand their emotional journeys and what they reveal about the film’s deeper themes.

Richard (Leonardo DiCaprio)

Richard is an adventurous and curious backpacker yearning for escape and a deeper meaning in life. His infatuation with Françoise and desire for adventure push him into morally ambiguous situations. Though brave and idealistic, his decisions lead to unforeseen consequences that test his character and beliefs.

🎒 Adventurous 💔 Romantic ⚖️ Morally Ambiguous

Françoise (Virginie Ledoyen)

Françoise is a free-spirited traveler drawn to Richard's adventurous nature. Her growing feelings for Richard complicate her relationship with Étienne and highlight the emotional intricacies of love amid adventure. The depth of her character reveals vulnerabilities that resonate with the theme of love's complexities.

💖 Romantic 🌍 Free-Spirited

Sal (Tilda Swinton)

Sal is the charismatic leader of the island community, embodying both authority and skepticism. Initially cautious, she becomes a pivotal figure as Richard navigates community dynamics. Her character serves as a catalyst for the unfolding drama, balancing between protecting her home and confronting moral dilemmas.

🌟 Charismatic 👩‍⚖️ Authority 💔 Complex

Last Updated: January 14, 2025 at 22:04

Major Themes – The Beach (2000)

Explore the central themes of The Beach (2000), from psychological, social, and emotional dimensions to philosophical messages. Understand what the film is really saying beneath the surface.

🌊 Adventure

The pursuit of adventure drives Richard's journey, as he leaves behind a mundane existence in search of a mythical beach. This theme highlights the allure of exploration and the dangers that come with chasing fantasy. As relationships are tested, the adventure unfolds with unforeseen challenges that question the very nature of paradise.

❤️ Love

The theme of love is intricately woven throughout Richard and Françoise's relationship, portraying both its beauty and complexity. Their secret romance flourishes amidst the backdrop of adventure, yet it also introduces tension, especially with Étienne's unspoken feelings. The love depicted reflects the idealized vs. the harsh realities of human connections.

⚔️ Conflict

Conflict arises from the characters' differing desires and the harsh truths of their idyllic world. Richard's moral dilemmas and the tension within the community highlight how paradise can quickly turn into chaos. This theme serves as a reminder of the darker consequences that often accompany the pursuit of a utopian dream.

Last Updated: January 14, 2025 at 22:04

Unlock the Full Story of The Beach

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

The Beach Summary

Read a complete plot summary of The Beach, 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 Beach Summary

The Beach Timeline

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

The Beach Timeline

More About The Beach

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

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