The Devil, Probably (1977)

The Devil, Probably (1977)

Year: 2012

Runtime: 95 min

Language: French

Director: Robert Bresson

Budget: $1M

Drama

Following the sudden death of Charles, a disillusioned young man embarks on a haunting and introspective journey. Through a series of poignant vignettes, the film explores his struggles with existential crises, failed relationships, and a desperate search for meaning in a seemingly purposeless world. Ultimately, he faces a tragic reckoning with his own mortality and the fragility of life.

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Timeline & Setting – The Devil, Probably (1977) (2012)

Explore the full timeline and setting of The Devil, Probably (1977) (2012). Follow every major event in chronological order and see how the environment shapes the story, characters, and dramatic tension.

Time period

The film navigates contemporary issues of disillusionment prevalent in youth during the late 20th century. This period saw students questioning societal values and expressing feelings of alienation amidst socio-political changes. The world is characterized by a search for meaning, often leading to despair.

Location

Paris

Paris, known as the City of Light, is renowned for its art, fashion, and history. It serves as a backdrop to Charles's existential struggles, embodying both vibrancy and alienation. The film's setting in Paris contrasts its romantic allure with the protagonist's profound disconnection from society.

🏙️ City 🌍 Urban

Last Updated: February 04, 2025 at 09:32

Main Characters – The Devil, Probably (1977) (2012)

Meet the key characters of The Devil, Probably (1977) (2012), with detailed profiles, motivations, and roles in the plot. Understand their emotional journeys and what they reveal about the film’s deeper themes.

Charles

Charles is a disillusioned student trapped in his thoughts and feelings of detachment. His struggles with societal norms and personal relationships underline his nihilistic perspective on life. As he spirals into despair, his emotional state becomes increasingly precarious.

🧠 Student 😞 Nihilism ⚰️ Despair

Alberte

Alberte is Charles's girlfriend who represents an attempt at connection, though ultimately she too fails to comprehend his inner struggles. Her presence highlights the gap in understanding and the difficulty of forming meaningful relationships in times of alienation.

💔 Girlfriend 😩 Misunderstanding 👫 Disconnection

Michel

Michel is Charles's friend and an environmental activist, embodying an idealistic pursuit of change. However, his efforts only serve to accentuate Charles's sense of disillusionment, revealing the limitations of activism in addressing deeper personal despair.

🌱 Activist 🤝 Friendship 🚫 Disillusionment

Valentin

Valentin is Charles's drug-addicted friend who becomes a catalyst for Charles's tragic decision. His involvement personifies the darker aspects of friendship and the critical moments that can lead one down a destructive path.

💊 Addiction 🚶‍♂️ Catalyst ⚠️ Tragedy

Last Updated: February 04, 2025 at 09:32

Major Themes – The Devil, Probably (1977) (2012)

Explore the central themes of The Devil, Probably (1977) (2012), from psychological, social, and emotional dimensions to philosophical messages. Understand what the film is really saying beneath the surface.

😔 Alienation

The theme of alienation permeates the film, capturing Charles's struggle to connect with those around him. His feeling of disconnection is mirrored in his relationships, where he finds no solace or understanding. This disconnect drives him toward a nihilistic outlook, reflecting broader existential questions.

💔 Despair

Despair is a central theme as Charles grapples with his inner turmoil and dissatisfaction. The portrayal of his relationships, including those with Alberte and Michel, underscores his emotional loneliness. As he contemplates suicide, the film starkly illustrates the depths of human despair.

🔪 Suicide

The narrative explores the dark theme of suicide, depicting Charles's increasingly desperate thoughts and ultimate decision. The film highlights the complexity of mental health issues, illustrating the profound impact of isolation and hopelessness. This theme raises critical discussions about seeking help and understanding.

Last Updated: February 04, 2025 at 09:32

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Explore Movie Threads

Discover curated groups of movies connected by mood, themes, and story style. Browse collections built around emotion, atmosphere, and narrative focus to easily find films that match what you feel like watching right now.

Movies about existential despair and alienation like The Devil, Probably (1977)

Stories of profound alienation and the crushing weight of a meaningless world.If you were captivated by the profound existential crisis in The Devil, Probably, this list features similar films that explore nihilism, alienation, and the search for meaning. Discover other slow-paced, heavy dramas where characters confront the emptiness of modern life and grapple with deep philosophical despair.

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Narrative Summary

Narratives in this thread often follow a character's introspective descent as they reject traditional systems of meaning—be it politics, religion, or love. The plot is typically driven by internal crisis rather than external action, unfolding through vignettes or a slow, deliberate pace that mirrors the protagonist's aimless and ultimately tragic journey.

Why These Movies?

These films are grouped together for their shared focus on the mood of existential dread. They share a bleak tone, heavy emotional weight, and a contemplative pacing that allows the audience to sit with the character's despair, creating a cohesive experience of philosophical melancholy.

Bleak films about disillusioned youth like The Devil, Probably (1977)

Haunting studies of young protagonists succumbing to overwhelming despair.For viewers seeking more movies like The Devil, Probably that explore the tragic side of youth, this collection features stories of young protagonists grappling with disillusionment and psychological crisis. Find similar character-driven dramas about failed relationships, a search for meaning, and a descent into despair.

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Narrative Summary

The narrative pattern follows a young protagonist's psychological unraveling. Often beginning from a point of potential, the story charts their failed attempts to connect with others and find a place in the world, resulting in a downward spiral. The structure may use flashbacks or a reflective frame to underscore the inevitability of the tragic outcome.

Why These Movies?

This thread connects films through a specific character archetype—the disillusioned youth—and the emotional journey of their collapse. They share a bleak ending feel, high intensity derived from psychological turmoil, and a focus on the fragility of a young life overwhelmed by the world's demands.

Unlock the Full Story of The Devil, Probably (1977)

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The Devil, Probably (1977) Summary

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The Devil, Probably (1977) Summary

The Devil, Probably (1977) Timeline

Track the full timeline of The Devil, Probably (1977) with every major event arranged chronologically. Perfect for decoding non-linear storytelling, flashbacks, or parallel narratives with a clear scene-by-scene breakdown.

The Devil, Probably (1977) Timeline

The Devil, Probably (1977) Spoiler-Free Summary

Get a quick, spoiler-free overview of The Devil, Probably (1977) 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 Devil, Probably (1977) Spoiler-Free Summary

More About The Devil, Probably (1977)

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