The Remains of the Day

The Remains of the Day

Year: 1993

Runtime: 134 min

Language: English

Director: James Ivory

DramaRomance

In 1930s England, James Stevens, a butler deeply committed to his role, dedicates himself to serving the aristocratic Lord Darlington, often overlooking the troubling political decisions made by his employer. Years later, Stevens undertakes a reflective road trip, seeking to reconnect with Miss Kenton. During this journey, he is forced to confront the sacrifices he made throughout his career and the personal relationships he suppressed in his unwavering devotion to duty.

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Timeline & Setting – The Remains of the Day (1993)

Explore the full timeline and setting of The Remains of the Day (1993). Follow every major event in chronological order and see how the environment shapes the story, characters, and dramatic tension.

Time period

1958, 1930s

The 1930s were marked by rising tensions in Europe, with the shadow of Nazi ideology looming large. This period shaped the lives of many, including Stevens and Miss Kenton, who navigated their relationship amid political turmoil. By 1958, postwar Britain reflects on the echoes of its past, emphasizing themes of regret and nostalgia.

Location

Darlington Hall, West Country

Darlington Hall was once a grand estate reflecting the stature of its former owner, Earl Darlington. Now, it stands diminished, a relic of a controversial past intertwined with Nazi Germany. The West Country setting also adds a layer of pastoral beauty, contrasting with the memories of political intrigue and personal struggles.

🏰 Mansion 🌄 Countryside

Last Updated: October 22, 2024 at 22:23

Main Characters – The Remains of the Day (1993)

Meet the key characters of The Remains of the Day (1993), with detailed profiles, motivations, and roles in the plot. Understand their emotional journeys and what they reveal about the film’s deeper themes.

Stevens

Stevens is the epitome of a devoted butler, encapsulating professionalism and emotional restraint. His unwavering focus on duty often blinds him to personal happiness, particularly in his relationship with Miss Kenton. Through his journey, he confronts the implications of his choices, revealing a deeply complex character wrestling with regret and self-identity.

🧑‍💼 Butler 🤵 Professionalism

Miss Kenton

Miss Kenton is a spirited housekeeper whose warmth contrasts with Stevens' reserved demeanor. Her relationship with him is intricate, marked by both affection and frustration over Stevens' emotional barriers. She yearns for fulfillment, highlighting the personal sacrifices made in the name of duty when she confronts Stevens about her decision to marry.

👩‍🦰 Housekeeper 💔 Heartfelt

Doctor Carlisle

Doctor Carlisle serves as a perceptive observer in Stevens' life, guiding him toward self-reflection. He prompts Stevens to confront his choices and the complex history of Lord Darlington, illuminating the themes of loyalty and regret. His role underscores the importance of introspection as Stevens seeks closure.

👨‍⚕️ Doctor 🧠 Insightful

Last Updated: October 22, 2024 at 22:23

Major Themes – The Remains of the Day (1993)

Explore the central themes of The Remains of the Day (1993), from psychological, social, and emotional dimensions to philosophical messages. Understand what the film is really saying beneath the surface.

🕰️ Regret

Regret permeates throughout the film as Stevens reflects on his life choices, particularly regarding his relationship with Miss Kenton. His emotional barricades illustrate the cost of serving duty over personal happiness. The theme highlights the bittersweet notion that some connections may remain forever unfulfilled.

💔 Love & Loss

The love story between Stevens and Miss Kenton echoes through their interactions, marked by unspoken feelings and missed opportunities. Their journey illustrates how love can be constrained by societal roles and personal inhibitions. The loss of their potential relationship serves as a profound commentary on emotional distance and yearning.

⚖️ Duty vs. Morality

Stevens' unwavering commitment to duty puts him at odds with the moral complexities surrounding him, especially concerning the Earl's actions. The film challenges the notion of loyalty when it compromises one's ethical beliefs, a struggle embodied poignantly in Stevens' decisions throughout the narrative.

Last Updated: October 22, 2024 at 22:23

Unlock the Full Story of The Remains of the Day

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The Remains of the Day Summary

Read a complete plot summary of The Remains of the Day, 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 Remains of the Day Summary

The Remains of the Day Timeline

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

The Remains of the Day Timeline

More About The Remains of the Day

Visit What's After the Movie to explore more about The Remains of the Day: 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 Remains of the Day

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