The Night They Raided Minsky's

The Night They Raided Minsky's

Year: 1968

Runtime: 99 min

Language: English

Director: William Friedkin

Comedy

In 1960s New York City, innocent Rachel Schpitendavel flees her restrictive Amish upbringing to chase her dreams as a dancer. When her wholesome routines clash with the risqué atmosphere of Minsky's Burlesque House, club owner Billy Minsky concocts a plan to exploit her naivety for his own gain. But as Rachel becomes the center of attention, rival suitors vie for her heart in this sidesplitting comedy of love and self-discovery.

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Timeline & Setting – The Night They Raided Minsky's (1968)
Explore the full timeline and setting of The Night They Raided Minsky's (1968). Follow every major event in chronological order and see how the environment shapes the story, characters, and dramatic tension.

Time period

1925

The year 1925 was pivotal in terms of cultural shifts in America, coinciding with the Roaring Twenties. This era was marked by a flourishing of the arts, the rise of jazz music, and a notable challenge to traditional values, particularly surrounding themes of sexuality and women's rights, as evidenced by the burlesque movement.

Location

New York City, Lower East Side

The Lower East Side of New York City is a vibrant and historically rich urban area known for its immigrant communities and lively arts scene. During the 1920s, it became a hub for various forms of entertainment, including burlesque theaters like Minsky's, which showcased daring performances and challenged social norms of the time.

🏙️ City 🎭 Theater

Last Updated: October 22, 2024 at 23:30

Main Characters – The Night They Raided Minsky's (1968)
Meet the key characters of The Night They Raided Minsky's (1968), with detailed profiles, motivations, and roles in the plot. Understand their emotional journeys and what they reveal about the film’s deeper themes.

Rachel Schpitendavel

Rachel is a naive and determined Amish girl driven by her passion for dance. Her journey leads her to experiment with her artistic side, revealing an inner strength and a desire for self-assertion despite the pressures from her family and society. Throughout the film, Rachel evolves from innocence to confidence as she embraces the world of burlesque.

💃 Dancer ✝️ Faith

Billy Minsky

Billy Minsky is a clever and ambitious showman who sees potential in Rachel's innocence. He manipulates her to provoke a scandal, showcasing his cunning nature as he balances between exploiting her talent and genuinely appreciating the excitement she brings to the stage.

🎩 Showman 🎭 Manipulator

Vance Fowler

Vance Fowler serves as the moral crusader intent on shutting down Minsky's Burlesque. His character embodies the societal conflicts of the time, representing the push against the burgeoning liberation movements in entertainment and challenging the boundaries of decency.

🚔 Authority ⚖️ Morality

Raymond Paine

Raymond Paine is the straight man in the show, who initially guides Rachel through the ins and outs of burlesque. He harbors a growing infatuation with her, which complicates his professional relationship as he navigates his own emotions amid the chaotic environment of the theater.

🎭 Performer ❤️ Infatuation

Last Updated: October 22, 2024 at 23:30

Major Themes – The Night They Raided Minsky's (1968)
Explore the central themes of The Night They Raided Minsky's (1968), from psychological, social, and emotional dimensions to philosophical messages. Understand what the film is really saying beneath the surface.

🎭 Performance

The theme of performance is central to the film, showcasing the contrast between innocence and artistic expression. Rachel's journey from a naive Amish girl to an alluring performer highlights the transformative power of stage and the complexities of identity within the entertainment world.

🕊️ Freedom

Freedom emerges as a compelling theme, reflecting Rachel's desire to break away from her conservative background. Her performances symbolize a quest for self-discovery and autonomy against societal constraints, ultimately showcasing her courage to embrace her individuality.

⚖️ Conflict

Conflict is portrayed through Rachel's struggles with her father's disapproval and the moral challenges presented by Vance Fowler. This theme emphasizes the generational divide and the larger societal battles over morality and censorship prevalent in the era.

Last Updated: October 22, 2024 at 23:30

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