The Duke of Burgundy

Evelyn is deeply invested in her studies of lepidopterology. Under the guidance of her mentor Cynthia, she immerses herself in the intricate world of butterflies, fostering both academic and emotional bonds.

The relationship between Evelyn and Cynthia is established as both romantic and complex. Evelyn's role as a maid introduces strict behavioral expectations, with failure leading to various forms of punishment.

As their dynamic evolves, Evelyn starts to take charge, creating scripts for their daily role-play scenarios. This shift highlights her growing influence over their relationship, much to Cynthia's limited approval.

In an effort to please Evelyn on her birthday, Cynthia commissions a special bed with a hidden drawer. However, Evelyn's displeasure over the delay in its construction leads her to ultimately reject the gift.

Evelyn demands more extreme forms of punishment from Cynthia, insisting she be confined to a trunk each night. This new dynamic creates tension as Cynthia grappled with feelings of resentment and inadequacy.

Jealousy festers within Cynthia, leading her to accuse Evelyn of being unfaithful by polishing another lecturer's boots. This accusation further strains their already brittle relationship.

On Evelyn's birthday, Cynthia instructs her to bake her own birthday cake while casually resting her feet on Evelyn's face. This unsettling power play leaves Evelyn feeling uncomfortable, ultimately prompting her to call out her safeword.

During their role play, Cynthia unexpectedly breaks character and begins to cry. In a moment of vulnerability, Evelyn comforts her, reaffirming her love, which signifies a pivotal change in their relationship.

Evelyn destroys her meticulously crafted instructions for their dynamic, symbolizing a significant shift. This act signifies her desire to alter the unhealthy patterns that have developed between them.

The couple carries the trunk previously used for Evelyn's confinement, representing both a shared burden and the complexities of their relationship. This heavy load symbolizes their intertwined fate as they navigate their emotional struggles.

In the film's closing moments, Evelyn stands outside the house and rings the doorbell. This act suggests the cyclical nature of their relationship, hinting at a potential restart of their intricate dynamic.