The End of the Affair

The End of the Affair

Year: 1999

Runtime: 102 min

Language: English

Director: Neil Jordan

DramaRomance

As post-war London's shadows recede, writer Maurice Bendrix's dormant passion for Sarah is reignited when Henry Miles, her unsuspecting husband, reveals suspicions of infidelity. As a detective tracks Sarah's every move, Maurice's old flame is rekindled, and he becomes entangled in a web of secrets, lies, and longing that threaten to upend the fragile lives of all involved.

Warning: spoilers below!

Haven’t seen The End of the Affair yet? This summary contains major spoilers. Bookmark the page, watch the movie, and come back for the full breakdown. If you're ready, scroll on and relive the story!

Timeline & Setting – The End of the Affair (1999)
Explore the full timeline and setting of The End of the Affair (1999). Follow every major event in chronological order and see how the environment shapes the story, characters, and dramatic tension.

Time period

1946, 1939

The film is set in the aftermath of World War II, a time characterized by uncertainty and the struggle for emotional healing. Flashbacks to 1939 reveal the vibrant yet tumultuous love affair between Bendrix and Sarah, contrasting sharply with the bleakness of their current realities. This dual timeline emphasizes the transient nature of love against the backdrop of a war-torn world.

Location

London

London serves as the somber backdrop for the film, capturing the post-war atmosphere of 1946. Known for its rich history and resilience, it grapples with the scars of World War II while providing a poignant setting for love and despair. The dreary weather mirrors the emotional turmoil of the characters.

🏙️ City ⛈️ War-torn

Last Updated: October 22, 2024 at 22:50

Main Characters – The End of the Affair (1999)
Meet the key characters of The End of the Affair (1999), with detailed profiles, motivations, and roles in the plot. Understand their emotional journeys and what they reveal about the film’s deeper themes.

Maurice Bendrix (Ralph Fiennes)

Maurice is a deeply passionate and conflicted novelist whose love for Sarah consumes his thoughts and actions. His journey through jealousy and obsession reveals a vulnerable side as he navigates the complexities of love and loss. He is driven by a desperate need to reconcile his feelings and confront the truth about his relationship.

✍️ Novelist 💔 Heartbroken 🔍 Obsessed

Sarah (Julianne Moore)

Sarah is a complex woman torn between her love for Bendrix and her commitment to her husband, Henry. Her emotional struggles reflect the difficult choices faced by many in the aftermath of love and loss. As she grapples with her feelings, her vulnerability is poignantly portrayed, especially in the face of terminal illness.

❤️ Torn 🙏 Devout 🌪️ Emotional

Henry Miles (Stephen Rea)

Henry is a seemingly oblivious husband who remains unaware of Sarah's affair. While he represents the stability of marital life, his blindness to the turmoil around him highlights the theme of betrayal. His earnest nature contrasts sharply with Bendrix's passionate approach to love, creating a tension between loyalty and desire.

🧔 Naive 💔 Unaware 🔒 Loyal

Last Updated: October 22, 2024 at 22:50

Major Themes – The End of the Affair (1999)
Explore the central themes of The End of the Affair (1999), from psychological, social, and emotional dimensions to philosophical messages. Understand what the film is really saying beneath the surface.

❤️ Love & Loss

The film explores the complexities of love through the lens of a passionate affair marred by betrayal and sorrow. As Bendrix grapples with intense longing and heartache, viewers witness how love can both uplift and devastate. The profound connection between Bendrix and Sarah is tested by external forces, reflecting the fragility of human relationships.

📖 Obsession

Bendrix's obsession with Sarah is a driving force in the narrative, showcasing the destructive power of unrequited love. His relentless pursuit of understanding her choices leads to chaotic confrontations and a deep sense of paranoia. This theme encapsulates the intertwining of passion and anguish that defines their relationship.

✝️ Faith & Doubt

The role of faith emerges prominently, especially through Sarah's internal struggles with her beliefs. As Bendrix's jealousy and despair clash with his search for spiritual understanding, the film delves into how religion influences their lives. The priest's presence amplifies these themes, reflecting the complexity of love intertwined with faith.

Last Updated: October 22, 2024 at 22:50

Similar Movies to The End of the Affair
Discover movies like The End of the Affair that share similar genres, themes, and storytelling elements. Whether you’re drawn to the atmosphere, character arcs, or plot structure, these curated recommendations will help you explore more films you’ll love.