The Nightingale

The Nightingale

Year: 2019

Runtime: 136 min

Language: English

Director: Jennifer Kent

AdventureDramaThrillerCrime

In 1825 Australia, Clare, a traumatized Irish convict, seeks freedom from her brutal master, Lieutenant Hawkins. When justice eludes her, she embarks on a perilous journey through treacherous terrain and hostile conflict to track down the ruthless officer. Joined by an unwilling Aboriginal tracker, Billy, they must confront their own demons and learn to trust each other as they navigate the unforgiving wilderness in search of revenge.

Warning: spoilers below!

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Timeline & Setting – The Nightingale (2019)
Explore the full timeline and setting of The Nightingale (2019). Follow every major event in chronological order and see how the environment shapes the story, characters, and dramatic tension.

Time period

1825

The year 1825 is marked by colonial tensions and conflicts, particularly during the Black War in Tasmania. It was a period where Aboriginal resistance against European settlers was strong, and various injustices faced by the Indigenous population were rampant.

Location

Launceston

Launceston is one of Australia's oldest cities, known for its rich history and stunning landscapes. It serves as a backdrop for Clare's confrontation with her oppressor, symbolizing both the societal structures in place and the struggle for personal justice.

🏞️ City 🌏 Australia

Last Updated: October 22, 2024 at 19:20

Main Characters – The Nightingale (2019)
Meet the key characters of The Nightingale (2019), with detailed profiles, motivations, and roles in the plot. Understand their emotional journeys and what they reveal about the film’s deeper themes.

Clare Carroll (Aisling Franciosi)

Clare Carroll is a resilient Irish convict whose life takes a dark turn due to the brutalities of colonial rule. Her character embodies strength and vulnerability as she navigates her harrowing journey of revenge following the loss of her family. Clare's determination to reclaim her life drives the film's narrative.

💪 Strong 😢 Tragic ⚖️ Vengeful

Billy (Baykali Ganambarr)

Billy is an Aboriginal tracker who initially holds a strained relationship with Clare due to their cultural differences. However, as they share their pain, his character develops into a symbol of quiet strength and resilience, reflecting the complexities of identity and survival in a colonial context.

🦅 Resilient 🤔 Reflective 🌏 Cultural

Hawkins (Sam Claflin)

Lieutenant Hawkins is the antagonist, representing the ruthless nature of colonial authority. His predatory behavior towards Clare drives the initial conflict of the story, portraying the abuse of power and perpetuation of violence against marginalized individuals.

⚔️ Antagonist 😈 Abusive ⚖️ Lawless

Last Updated: October 22, 2024 at 19:20

Major Themes – The Nightingale (2019)
Explore the central themes of The Nightingale (2019), from psychological, social, and emotional dimensions to philosophical messages. Understand what the film is really saying beneath the surface.

⚔️ Revenge

Revenge is a central theme in 'The Nightingale,' as Clare seeks to avenge the brutal crimes against her family. This quest for vengeance not only drives the narrative but also explores the depths of human despair and the lengths one will go to reclaim agency.

💔 Loss

The theme of loss permeates the film, focusing on Clare’s tragic loss of her husband and child. The emotional toll of these events shapes her journey and highlights the broader suffering experienced by women and Indigenous communities during this harsh era.

🤝 Unity

Unity emerges as Clare and Billy's relationship develops from tension to mutual support. Their bond symbolizes an alliance against oppression and showcases the potential for healing through shared experiences, despite their differing backgrounds.

Last Updated: October 22, 2024 at 19:20

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