The Pillow Book

The Pillow Book

Year: 1997

Runtime: 126 min

Language: English

Director: Peter Greenaway

DramaRomance

A young girl's life is profoundly affected by the discovery of delicate calligraphy and the intimate secrets within a noblewoman's diary. Years later, these memories resurface when she encounters a man who becomes both a canvas for her artistic desires and an instrument for revenge. Their complex relationship ignites a sensual journey, exploring themes of love, power, and the search for identity.

Warning: spoilers below!

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Timeline & Setting – The Pillow Book (1997)

Explore the full timeline and setting of The Pillow Book (1997). Follow every major event in chronological order and see how the environment shapes the story, characters, and dramatic tension.

Time period

The film's narrative flows through various stages of Nagiko's life, from her childhood in Kyoto to her adult experiences in contemporary Hong Kong. The story encapsulates themes of longing and artistic pursuit across these different life phases, highlighting the evolution of her character against a backdrop of personal and cultural milestones.

Location

Kyoto, Hong Kong, Cafe Typo

Kyoto, known for its historic temples and traditional wooden houses, is a city that deeply influences Nagiko's early years, connecting her to her cultural roots. Hong Kong represents her escape and a new beginning, filled with opportunities for self-discovery. Cafe Typo serves as a pivotal meeting point for Nagiko and Jerome, symbolizing the blend of art and intimacy.

🏯 Historical 🌆 Urban ☕ Café

Last Updated: October 22, 2024 at 19:38

Main Characters – The Pillow Book (1997)

Meet the key characters of The Pillow Book (1997), with detailed profiles, motivations, and roles in the plot. Understand their emotional journeys and what they reveal about the film’s deeper themes.

Kiyohara Nagiko (Vivian Wu)

Kiyohara Nagiko is a complex character driven by her desires for love and artistic fulfillment. As a model navigating the world of fashion, she struggles with her identity and the expectations placed upon her. Her journey reveals a passionate yet vulnerable side, showcasing her evolution through pain, betrayal, and ultimately, self-discovery.

👩‍🎨 Protagonist 📚 Artistic 😞 Vulnerable

Jerome (Ewan McGregor)

Jerome is an intriguing British translator who becomes a significant figure in Nagiko's journey. His charm and linguistic flair captivate her, yet he embodies both the potential for connection and the risk of heartbreak. Jerome's character reflects the duality of passion and commitment, ultimately leading to a tragic misunderstanding with Nagiko.

🇬🇧 Translator 🌹 Romantic 💔 Tragic

Last Updated: October 22, 2024 at 19:38

Major Themes – The Pillow Book (1997)

Explore the central themes of The Pillow Book (1997), from psychological, social, and emotional dimensions to philosophical messages. Understand what the film is really saying beneath the surface.

❤️‍🔥 Desire

The quest for desire serves as a central theme throughout the film, as Nagiko seeks a lover who can fulfill her emotional and physical yearnings. This exploration is filled with highs and lows, showcasing the complexity of human relationships and the often unfulfilled search for true connection.

📖 Artistic Expression

Art and its expression form a core part of Nagiko's identity. The act of writing and calligraphy represents her emotions, desires, and personal journey, intertwining her experiences of love, loss, and self-realization within the fabric of her creative endeavors.

😢 Grief and Betrayal

The film captures the raw pain of loss and betrayal, stemming from Nagiko's relationships, particularly with Jerome and Yaji-san. These emotional struggles reflect the darker sides of love, driving Nagiko to channel her grief into her writing, which ultimately leads to her personal growth.

Last Updated: October 22, 2024 at 19:38

Unlock the Full Story of The Pillow Book

Don't stop at just watching — explore The Pillow Book in full detail. From the complete plot summary and scene-by-scene timeline to character breakdowns, thematic analysis, and a deep dive into the ending — every page helps you truly understand what The Pillow Book is all about. Plus, discover what's next after the movie.

The Pillow Book Summary

Read a complete plot summary of The Pillow Book, 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 Pillow Book Summary

The Pillow Book Timeline

Track the full timeline of The Pillow Book with every major event arranged chronologically. Perfect for decoding non-linear storytelling, flashbacks, or parallel narratives with a clear scene-by-scene breakdown.

The Pillow Book Timeline

More About The Pillow Book

Visit What's After the Movie to explore more about The Pillow Book: box office results, cast and crew info, production details, post-credit scenes, and external links — all in one place for movie fans and researchers.

More About The Pillow Book

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