The Phantom of Liberty (re-release)

The Phantom of Liberty (re-release)

Year: 2002

Runtime: 104 min

Language: French

Director: Luis Buñuel

DramaComedy

In this subversive comedy-drama, Luis Buñuel weaves together a tapestry of surreal vignettes, loosely inspired by his own life. Spanning centuries, these chance encounters intersect like puzzle pieces, featuring a diverse cast of characters: a dying patriarch, inept authorities, and others grappling with taboo subjects like mortality, morality, and the human condition.

Warning: spoilers below!

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Timeline – The Phantom of Liberty (re-release) (2002)
Trace every key event in The Phantom of Liberty (re-release) (2002) with our detailed, chronological timeline. Perfect for unpacking nonlinear stories, spotting hidden connections, and understanding how each scene builds toward the film’s climax. Whether you're revisiting or decoding for the first time, this timeline gives you the full picture.
1

Auction at the Paris Opera House

The film opens with a poignant auction at the Paris Opera House, which is currently closed. Various props are sold to raise funds, including a striking stuffed monkey dressed in Persian robes purchased by an older man in a wheelchair.

Paris Opera House
2

Flashback to 1870

As the auction progresses, the scene transitions back to 1870, showcasing a lively performance of 'Hannibal' by Chalemau. The vibrant atmosphere highlights the grandeur of the opera during its golden age.

1870 Paris Opera House
3

Opera Manager's Departure

The opera manager announces his unexpected departure to Australia, leaving the Opera House under the management of Gilles André and Richard Firmin. This change in leadership sets the stage for the ensuing chaos.

Paris Opera House
4

Carlotta's Outburst

During the new management's first rehearsal, a prop falls on the lead diva, Carlotta, igniting her fury and prompting her to storm out. This incident causes a ripple effect, forcing the managers to find a replacement for her role.

Paris Opera House
5

Christine Daaé Takes the Spotlight

Madame Giry persuades André and Firmin to cast Christine Daaé, a gifted dancer, as the replacement for Carlotta. Christine's debut performance of 'Think of Me' captivates the audience and marks her rise to fame.

Paris Opera House
6

Christine's Prayer

After her performance, Christine retreats to a chapel beneath the Opera House to pray for her late father, feeling the weight of his absence. She is joined by her best friend Meg, who expresses curiosity about Christine's newfound singing talent.

Chapel beneath the Opera House
7

Raoul's Visit

Christine's childhood friend, Raoul, visits her dressing room after recognizing her from the audience. He invites her to a party, but Christine finds herself locked in her room, a situation that sparks the Phantom's jealousy.

Christine's Dressing Room
8

The Phantom's Lair

The Phantom, incensed by Raoul's influence, draws Christine to his lair behind a mirror. In a hauntingly beautiful moment, he confesses his feelings for her during 'Music of the Night,' revealing both his passion and vulnerability.

Phantom's Lair
9

Phantom's Demands

Ignoring the Phantom's ominous notes demanding Christine's starring role, André and Firmin decide to rehire Carlotta. This decision backfires when the Phantom curses Carlotta's voice, leading the managers to reluctantly elevate Christine.

Paris Opera House
10

The Tragic Death of Joseph Buquet

As tensions rise, Joseph Buquet uncovers the Phantom's secret but meets a grisly fate, being hanged in front of an audience. This tragic event deeply frightens Christine and propels her to the Opera House roof, where she seeks solace.

Paris Opera House
11

Raoul's Declaration of Love

On the roof, Raoul professes his unwavering love for Christine, promising to always protect her. This heartfelt moment is overheard by the Phantom, shattering his hopes and igniting feelings of jealousy.

Roof of the Opera House
12

Masquerade Ball and Ultimatum

Three months later, the Opera House buzzes with activity until the Phantom crashes a vibrant masquerade ball. He presents his new opera, 'Don Juan,' issuing a stern ultimatum to the managers, instilling fear among them.

Paris Opera House
13

Confrontation at Christine's Father's Grave

Following the ball, Christine visits her father’s grave, where she encounters the Phantom once again. The encounter escalates into a confrontation when Raoul intervenes, leading to a dramatic sword fight.

Graveyard
14

The Final Performance

During the dramatic performance of 'Don Juan,' the Phantom reveals himself on stage after committing murder. He performs alongside Christine, leading to an emotional revelation of her feelings and a tragic sequence of events.

Opera House Stage
15

The Heart-Wrenching Choice

At the climax of the story, the Phantom presents Christine with a heart-breaking choice: stay with him or save Raoul. Choosing compassion, Christine kisses the Phantom and leaves with Raoul, breaking the Phantom's heart.

Phantom's Lair
16

Raoul's Rememberance

The story concludes in 1919, focusing on an older Raoul visiting Christine’s grave. He leaves the music box monkey and discovers a rose tied with a black ribbon, symbolizing the Phantom’s enduring love and Christine's true affections.

1919 Christine's Grave

Last Updated: November 16, 2024 at 15:06

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