Under the Cherry Moon (1986) Characters, Setting & Themes Explained

The movie is set in Nice, a glamorous city on the French Riviera known for its stunning beaches and vibrant nightlife. The Venus de Milo nightclub serves as a central location where wealthy patrons gather for entertainment and romantic encounters, providing an opulent backdrop for the story's events.

• nice
• french riviera
• venus de milo
• nightclub
• setting

The Venus de Milo is a upscale nightclub in Nice that serves as a central setting where the wealthy characters gather. It represents the world of luxury and superficial romance that Christopher navigates as a gigolo, and it's where he encounters both Mrs. Wellington and Mary, making it a pivotal location for the story's romantic entanglements.

• venus de milo
• nightclub
• nice
• location

The movie takes place in a contemporary 1980s setting, capturing the lifestyle of the wealthy during an era of extravagant parties and indulgent relationships. While no specific dates are given, the opulent atmosphere reflects the decadence and social dynamics of the period.

• 1980s
• time period
• contemporary
• era

The movie explores three major themes: love and sacrifice, with characters facing emotional dilemmas in pursuit of genuine connection; wealth and desire, examining how financial motivations complicate relationships; and identity and self-discovery, as characters grapple with authenticity amid societal pressures and personal ambitions.

• themes
• love
• sacrifice
• wealth
• identity
• self-discovery

The theme of love and sacrifice centers on Christopher's journey from superficial encounters to seeking genuine connection with Mary. His pursuit of true love requires difficult sacrifices, demonstrating how the characters must navigate social expectations and emotional barriers, ultimately revealing both the challenges and beauty found in authentic relationships.

• love
• sacrifice
• romance
• relationships

Wealth significantly influences the characters' motivations throughout the film. Christopher's attraction to wealthy women initially stems from his need for financial stability, while Mary faces pressure from her billionaire father's expectations. The story examines the conflict between pursuing love versus material gain, revealing the true cost of relationships in a world of privilege.

• wealth
• desire
• money
• materialism
• relationships

The film explores identity struggles through Mary, who battles between her family's expectations and her desire for independence, and Christopher, who questions his role as a gigolo. Both characters embark on journeys to understand their true selves amidst societal pressures, ultimately seeking authenticity in a world dominated by superficiality.

• identity
• self-discovery
• authenticity
• personal growth

Christopher Tracy is a charming pianist and gigolo who entertains wealthy women in Nice while secretly longing for true love. Despite his carefree facade and witty banter, he harbors a deeper yearning for genuine connection. His character arc involves discovering what authentic love really means beyond the superficial world he inhabits.

• christopher tracy
• gigolo
• pianist
• protagonist

Mary Sharon is the spirited daughter of billionaire Isaac Sharon, torn between her family's expectations and her desire for independence. Initially dismissive of Christopher, she evolves from a party girl into a woman who recognizes the depth of true love, ultimately seeking her own identity away from her privileged roots.

• mary sharon
• kristin scott thomas
• heiress
• billionaire daughter

Isaac Sharon is Mary Sharon's wealthy and controlling father who represents the power dynamics of their privileged world. His expectations and authoritarian nature create tension in Mary's life, influencing her decisions about love and independence. He embodies the societal pressures that can stifle true personal desires.

• isaac sharon
• father
• billionaire
• controlling

Tricky is Christopher's confidant and partner in crime, providing comic relief and practical advice throughout the film. His personality contrasts with Christopher's romantic pursuits, offering a grounded perspective amid the hedonistic lifestyle. Though often comedic, he shows moments of tenderness and loyalty, highlighting the importance of friendship alongside romantic relationships.

• tricky
• jerome benton
• sidekick
• friend