The Tiger's Tail

The Tiger's Tail

Year: 2008

Runtime: 107 min

Language: English

Director: John Boorman

DramaMysteryThrillerComedyCrime

In Dublin's affluent landscape, Liam O'Leary's seemingly charmed life as a real estate mogul begins to unravel when his bid for a new stadium is rejected, plunging him into financial ruin. As his world crumbles, Liam's grip on reality falters, and he becomes fixated on a mysterious doppelganger lurking in the shadows, threatening to upend his very identity.

Warning: spoilers below!

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Timeline & Setting – The Tiger's Tail (2008)
Explore the full timeline and setting of The Tiger's Tail (2008). Follow every major event in chronological order and see how the environment shapes the story, characters, and dramatic tension.

Time period

Celtic Tiger Era

The 'Celtic Tiger' era represents a time of dramatic economic growth in Ireland from the mid-1990s to the late 2000s. This period was characterized by rapid development in the property market and significant investment in infrastructure projects. However, it also led to excess, overambition, and eventually economic decline, themes that resonate throughout the film.

Location

Ireland

The movie takes place in Ireland during a time of significant economic growth, often referred to as the 'Celtic Tiger.' This period saw rapid urban development and the rise of property developers, as well as increased wealth and ambition among its citizens. The tension between opulence and impending doom is central to the story.

🇮🇪 Ireland 🏙️ Urban Development

Last Updated: October 22, 2024 at 21:10

Main Characters – The Tiger's Tail (2008)
Meet the key characters of The Tiger's Tail (2008), with detailed profiles, motivations, and roles in the plot. Understand their emotional journeys and what they reveal about the film’s deeper themes.

Liam O'Leary (Brendan Gleeson)

Liam O'Leary is an ambitious Irish property developer whose success is overshadowed by his pride and the pressure of the economic climate. As he attempts to navigate his insecurities and external challenges, he encounters his Double, prompting a journey of self-discovery and existential questioning. His character embodies the complexities of ambition and personal identity.

👔 Businessman 😩 Overwhelmed 💔 Family Man

Jane (Kim Cattrall)

Jane is Liam’s wife who feels increasingly neglected as his ambitions consume him. Her skepticism regarding Liam's experiences adds tension to their relationship, showcasing the emotional toll that his pursuits have taken on the family. Jane represents the partners who suffer in silence while their significant others chase dreams.

👩‍👧‍👦 Support 😔 Neglected 🏠 Caregiver

Connor (Briain Gleeson)

Connor is Liam's son, who struggles to understand the turmoil engulfing his father. As his father's obsession grows, Connor feels the impact of being overlooked and disconnected from his family. His character reflects the younger generation's conflict with parental aspirations and the quest for validation.

👦 Disillusioned 💔 Overlooked

Oona (Sinead Cusack)

Oona is Liam's sister who stands by him amidst his madness. She believes in his experience with the Double and serves as a grounding force within the family dynamic. Her support highlights the importance of familial bonds in navigating personal crises.

👩‍❤️‍👨 Sister 🤝 Supportive

Andy (Ciaran Hinds)

Andy, a childhood friend and priest, provides the emotional and spiritual support Liam desperately needs. He represents a connection to Liam's past and acts as a moral compass amid the chaos of ambition and identity struggles. His faith in Liam adds depth to their bond.

👨‍⚖️ Priest 🤲 Supportive Friend

Last Updated: October 22, 2024 at 21:10

Major Themes – The Tiger's Tail (2008)
Explore the central themes of The Tiger's Tail (2008), from psychological, social, and emotional dimensions to philosophical messages. Understand what the film is really saying beneath the surface.

🤯 Identity Crisis

Identity is a crucial theme in *The Tiger's Tail*, as Liam grapples with understanding who he is in the face of success and failure. The appearance of his Double forces him to confront the truths about his life, ambitions, and the disconnection from his family. This struggle for self-understanding reflects the internal battles many face when their external identities are challenged.

🏗️ Ambition

Ambition serves as a driving force for Liam, propelling him towards his goal of building a national stadium. However, this ambition becomes his downfall as it leads to overextension and ultimately madness. The film critiques the intense pressures driven by societal expectations and personal pride.

😰 Family Strain

The emotional strain on Liam’s family is palpable, as his obsession with success alienates his wife and son. Jane and Connor view his struggles as manifestations of madness, highlighting the theme of neglect within familial relationships. Support comes only from Oona and Andy, emphasizing the solitary battle many face when overwhelmed by ambition.

Last Updated: October 22, 2024 at 21:10

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