The Phantom of Paris

The Phantom of Paris

Year: 1931

Runtime: 74 mins

Language: English

Director: John S. Robertson

DramaCrime

Chéri‑Bibi, a world‑class escape artist, finds his legendary talent useless when he is framed for murder. As one man will kill for money and another will risk everything for love, Chéri‑Bibi must use his wits and daring to outwit the law, clear his name, and survive the deadly intrigue surrounding him.

Warning: spoilers below!

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Timeline – The Phantom of Paris (1931)

Trace every key event in The Phantom of Paris (1931) 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

Bibi's Reputation as a Magician

Chéri-Bibi is celebrated as a talented magician and escape artist in Paris, gaining fame among the public. However, some members of the upper-class, including nobleman Bourrelier, view him as a charlatan and disapprove of his success. His reputation is both rising and contested during this period.

Paris
2

Romantic Tension with Cecily

Bibi and Cecily, Bourrelier's daughter, are secretly in love with each other despite her engagement to the Marquis Du Touchais. Their relationship is passionate but complicated due to social pressures and her engagement.

3

Confrontation at a Party

At a social gathering, Bibi and Bourrelier have a fierce argument over Cecily, leading Bourrelier to order Bibi not to see his daughter again. This heated exchange foreshadows the upcoming conflicts.

4

Bourrelier's Death and Bibi's Arrest

Moments after the argument, Bourrelier is found dead, and Bibi is accused of killing him. Because of the suspicion, Bibi is arrested and imprisoned, setting off his subsequent attempt to clear his name.

5

Bibi's Escape from Prison

After serving four years, Bibi manages a daring escape from prison while hiding at Herman’s house. This escape marks his attempt to evade wrongful conviction and seek justice.

Prison and Herman's house
6

Revealing the True Murderer

Bibi overhears that the Marquis, fearing losing his inheritance, was the real murderer of Bourrelier. The Marquis confesses to Vera, his lover, but dies before Bibi can bring this to light, leaving the case unresolved.

7

Plastic Surgery and Disguise

Fearing further accusations, Bibi seeks medical help and undergoes plastic surgery to look like the dying Marquis. He reappears publicly as the Marquis, claiming he suffered a head injury affecting his memory.

Doctor Gorin's clinic
8

Life as the Marquis and Reunion

Adopting the Marquis's identity, Bibi learns that Cecily had married the Marquis but remains unhappy and still loves him. They reunite emotionally, rekindling their love despite the danger of discovery.

9

Discovery and Arrest

Detective Costaud suspects Bibi's true identity and demands fingerprint verification. The fingerprints match, leading to Bibi's arrest once again, driven by suspicion of his impersonation of the Marquis.

10

Bibi's Escape and Confrontation with Vera

Bibi escapes from custody and confronts Vera, who initially refuses to disclose information. Her confession incriminates her and confirms the fake nature of Bibi’s impersonation, exposing her complicity.

11

Vera's Arrest and Resolution

Vera is arrested based on her involvement, clearing Bibi and Cecily to resume their lives free from deception. The movie concludes with their union, now free of the past's complications.

Last Updated: August 19, 2025 at 05:13

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The Phantom of Paris Summary

Read a complete plot summary of The Phantom of Paris, including all key story points, character arcs, and turning points. This in-depth recap is ideal for understanding the narrative structure or reviewing what happened in the movie.

The Phantom of Paris Summary

Characters, Settings & Themes in The Phantom of Paris

Discover the characters, locations, and core themes that shape The Phantom of Paris. Get insights into symbolic elements, setting significance, and deeper narrative meaning — ideal for thematic analysis and movie breakdowns.

Characters, Settings & Themes in The Phantom of Paris

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The Phantom of Paris Spoiler-Free Summary

More About The Phantom of Paris

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