Water Drops on Burning Rocks

Water Drops on Burning Rocks

Year: 2000

Runtime: 90 min

Language: French

Director: François Ozon

Drama

Set in 1970s Germany, the story follows Leopold, a sophisticated but aging businessman, who begins a passionate romance with Franz, a much younger man. As their relationship deepens, Leopold's carefully constructed image begins to unravel, exposing hidden vulnerabilities and a complicated past. The affair forces both men to confront uncomfortable truths about themselves and the expectations of those around them, leading to a tumultuous exploration of desire and identity.

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Timeline – Water Drops on Burning Rocks (2000)

Trace every key event in Water Drops on Burning Rocks (2000) with our detailed, chronological timeline. Perfect for unpacking nonlinear stories, spotting hidden connections, and understanding how each scene builds toward the film’s climax. Whether you're revisiting or decoding for the first time, this timeline gives you the full picture.

1

Léopold Meets Franz

Léopold, a successful entrepreneur, decides to bring home a young man named Franz, who is struggling with his upcoming marriage. This unexpected meeting sets the stage for an evening of deep conversation and introspection, as both men navigate their personal struggles.

Evening Léopold's Home
2

Franz's Confession

During their heartfelt evening, Franz opens up about his lack of passion for his fiancée, Anna. He admits to longing for deeper connections that he finds in literature and dreams, showcasing his internal conflict about love and fulfillment.

Evening Léopold's Home
3

Exploring Romantic Feelings

Léopold encourages Franz to reflect on his feelings, asking if he has ever been attracted to another man. Franz reveals a recurring dream about a mysterious stranger, which leads them to explore the boundaries of their relationships.

Later that Evening Léopold's Home
4

An Unexpected Kiss

As they share their vulnerabilities, the tension culminates in an unexpected kiss that alters the dynamics of their relationship. Léopold suggests they act out Franz's dream, but this time, they reverse their roles, blurring the lines between friendship and romance.

Later that Evening Léopold's Home
5

Six Months of Changes

Fast forward six months, and Franz has settled into a life with Léopold, who is frequently away on business. The balance of power shifts as Léopold's absences deepen, causing tension to build while they still maintain a physical connection.

Six Months Later
6

Burden of Guilt

Amid their turbulent dynamic, Léopold reveals his guilt over a tragic incident linked to his work. This admission leaves Franz feeling helpless, prompting him to resort to their previous role-play as a coping mechanism amidst the emotional chaos.

7

Franz's Despair

With Léopold's constant absence creating a sense of isolation, Franz descends into boredom and contemplation of dark thoughts, including a fascination with a firearm. His emotional state grows more precarious as he grapples with his desires and realities.

8

Anna Reappears

Franz's past comes rushing back when Anna, his fiancée, re-enters his life. Their interaction rekindles old feelings and prompts Franz to reenact the overcoat fantasy, this time involving Anna, reflecting the complexity of his emotional ties.

9

Illicit Affair Begins

Franz and Anna embark on an illicit affair filled with passion and confusion. Their encounter leads them to Léopold's apartment, where they share an intense two-day moment together, igniting feelings that Franz struggles to understand.

Two Days Léopold's Apartment
10

Plans Interrupted

As Franz and Anna plan their escape from his life with Léopold, their plans are abruptly halted by Léopold's unexpected return. The revelation of their intentions leads to an awkward and tense situation, challenging their hopes for the future.

Léopold's Apartment
11

Véra's Entrance

Léopold's enigmatic ex-girlfriend, Véra, arrives, adding complexity to the already strained dynamics between the three. Léopold introduces Véra to both Franz and Anna, setting off a chain of emotional upheaval and hidden desires.

Later that Night Léopold's Apartment
12

Tension and Kinks

As the night progresses, Léopold suggests that Véra has an interest in bondage, revealing a shared kink with Franz. This realization leaves Franz feeling diminished and humiliated, further fueling his resentment towards Léopold.

Later that Night Léopold's Apartment
13

Véra's Reflection

Véra shares her own tumultuous history with Léopold, revealing that she considers herself his 'creature.' This insight brings a temporary bond between her and Franz, both feeling trapped in their respective roles in Léopold's life.

Later that Night Léopold's Apartment
14

Franz's Downfall

Amid rising tensions, Franz succumbs to his emotional turmoil and opts for a tragic resolution. His choice deepens the already profound emptiness felt by Léopold, highlighting the devastating impact of their entangled relationships.

15

Anna's Grief

In the aftermath of Franz's decision, Anna grapples with overwhelming loss. The burden of her emotions becomes tangible as she faces the shattered remnants of her relationships, creating a poignant end to their intertwined destinies.

Last Updated: November 22, 2024 at 18:57

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Characters, Settings & Themes in Water Drops on Burning Rocks

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