Under the City's Skin

Under the City's Skin

Year: 2003

Runtime: 92 min

Language: Persian

Director: Rakhshan Bani Etemad

Drama

A poignant drama set in Iran, this film follows a mother facing the difficulties of raising her family alone. She strives to provide for her loved ones while dealing with her husband’s disability and the manipulative nature of her eldest son. The story explores themes of societal expectations and the resilience of a mother striving to overcome adversity.

Warning: spoilers below!

Haven’t seen Under the City's Skin yet? This summary contains major spoilers. Bookmark the page, watch the movie, and come back for the full breakdown. If you're ready, scroll on and relive the story!

Timeline & Setting – Under the City's Skin (2003)

Explore the full timeline and setting of Under the City's Skin (2003). Follow every major event in chronological order and see how the environment shapes the story, characters, and dramatic tension.

Time period

The film does not specify a particular time period, allowing it to resonate as a timeless exploration of humanity. However, the modern setting amplifies the contemporary issues of identity and connection prevalent in today's society.

Location

Scotland, Glasgow

The film unfolds in the rugged landscapes of Scotland, with scenes prominently set in the bustling city of Glasgow. Known for its rich cultural heritage, Glasgow serves as a backdrop that contrasts with the film's foreboding atmosphere, capturing the essence of an urban environment intertwined with the mysteries of individual stories.

🌍 Location 🏙️ City

Last Updated: October 22, 2024 at 19:30

Main Characters – Under the City's Skin (2003)

Meet the key characters of Under the City's Skin (2003), with detailed profiles, motivations, and roles in the plot. Understand their emotional journeys and what they reveal about the film’s deeper themes.

Unknown Woman (Scarlett Johansson)

The enigmatic protagonist navigates the world with a predatory instinct, driven by a mysterious purpose. Her cold demeanor and unsettling actions reflect a profound disconnect from human emotions, yet her gradual transformation highlights a poignant struggle for understanding and connection. As she confronts her true nature, she embodies the complexities of alienation and the quest for identity.

👽 Protagonist 🪐 Alien 💔 Emotion

Last Updated: October 22, 2024 at 19:30

Major Themes – Under the City's Skin (2003)

Explore the central themes of Under the City's Skin (2003), from psychological, social, and emotional dimensions to philosophical messages. Understand what the film is really saying beneath the surface.

👁️ Identity

The theme of identity is central to the narrative, as the protagonist grapples with her alien form and the stark reality of human existence. Her journey reflects the struggles of understanding one's place in a world that often feels foreign and unwelcoming. This introspection leads to a poignant exploration of what it means to be truly human.

💔 Empathy

Empathy emerges as a significant theme as the main character gradually awakens to human emotions. Her interactions with men reveal a complex relationship with her own capacity for feelings, ultimately challenging the coldness that defines her existence. The film eloquently examines the dichotomy of compassion in a world filled with cruelty.

🌊 Destruction

Destruction is a recurring motif, illustrated through the protagonist's predatory actions that lead to the downfall of her victims. This theme visualizes the darker aspects of desire and the catastrophic consequences of her relentless quest, juxtaposing human life with her own chaotic journey.

Last Updated: October 22, 2024 at 19:30

Unlock the Full Story of Under the City's Skin

Don't stop at just watching — explore Under the City's Skin 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 Under the City's Skin is all about. Plus, discover what's next after the movie.

Under the City's Skin Summary

Read a complete plot summary of Under the City's Skin, 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.

Under the City's Skin Summary

Under the City's Skin Timeline

Track the full timeline of Under the City's Skin with every major event arranged chronologically. Perfect for decoding non-linear storytelling, flashbacks, or parallel narratives with a clear scene-by-scene breakdown.

Under the City's Skin Timeline

More About Under the City's Skin

Visit What's After the Movie to explore more about Under the City's Skin: 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 Under the City's Skin

Similar Movies to Under the City's Skin

Discover movies like Under the City's Skin that share similar genres, themes, and storytelling elements. Whether you’re drawn to the atmosphere, character arcs, or plot structure, these curated recommendations will help you explore more films you’ll love.