White Material

White Material

Year: 2010

Runtime: 106 min

Language: French

Director: Claire Denis

Drama

In a nation consumed by civil war, Maria, a determined coffee plantation owner, stubbornly remains, refusing to abandon her livelihood. As the conflict escalates and violence spreads, she carefully manages her finances, desperately hoping the nearby mayor, Cherif, can protect her land from the encroaching danger and turmoil gripping the country.

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Timeline & Setting – White Material (2010)

Explore the full timeline and setting of White Material (2010). Follow every major event in chronological order and see how the environment shapes the story, characters, and dramatic tension.

Time period

Modern-day

Set in modern-day, the film reflects the complexities of contemporary African society undergoing civil war. This period is marked by political instability, social unrest, and the continuing impact of historical colonialism. Issues such as child soldiers and local governance are poignant reminders of the challenges faced in such tumultuous times.

Location

Unnamed African nation

The movie takes place in an unnamed African nation characterized by its vibrant landscapes and rich agricultural heritage. This location serves as a backdrop for the unfolding civil unrest, highlighting the struggles of those connected to the land. The coffee plantation becomes a symbol of both the personal stakes involved and the broader implications of colonial legacies.

🌍 African 🌱 Agriculture

Last Updated: October 22, 2024 at 21:25

Main Characters – White Material (2010)

Meet the key characters of White Material (2010), with detailed profiles, motivations, and roles in the plot. Understand their emotional journeys and what they reveal about the film’s deeper themes.

Maria Vial

Maria is a fiercely determined French farmer dedicated to her family's coffee plantation. Despite the dangers of civil war surrounding her, she remains resolute in her commitment to maintaining her family's legacy. Her character embodies both strength and vulnerability as she navigates the complexities of loss and resistance against overwhelming odds.

👩‍🌾 Determination 👩‍👦 Maternal 🌿 Resilience

Andre

Andre, Maria's ex-husband, struggles with the realities of their crumbling plantation and his mounting debts. He represents the tension between familial duty and self-preservation, often pleading with Maria to evacuate. His character reflects the complications of personal relationships in times of crisis and the challenges of navigating responsibilities amidst chaos.

⚖️ Conflict 😥 Loss

Manuel

Manuel is Maria's son, caught between childhood innocence and the harsh realities of war. His journey reflects a loss of direction and purpose, compounded by trauma from his experiences with the rebels. The character grapples with external pressures and ultimately makes a tragic choice that alters the course of his family's fate.

😔 Trauma 🔄 Betrayal

Last Updated: October 22, 2024 at 21:25

Major Themes – White Material (2010)

Explore the central themes of White Material (2010), from psychological, social, and emotional dimensions to philosophical messages. Understand what the film is really saying beneath the surface.

⚔️ Conflict

The film explores the theme of conflict, both on a personal and societal level. Maria's determination to preserve her family's coffee plantation reflects a larger struggle against the forces of war and colonialism. As tensions rise, the pervasive fear and chaos symbolized by the rebels underscore the profound impact of civil strife on everyday life.

💔 Despair

Despair permeates the narrative as characters face the daunting realities of loss and betrayal. Maria's refusal to abandon her land even in the face of danger highlights both her tenacity and the deep emotional ties to her legacy. The tragic fate of her son Manuel serves as a stark reminder of the human cost of violence and conflict.

Last Updated: October 22, 2024 at 21:25

Unlock the Full Story of White Material

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

White Material Summary

Read a complete plot summary of White Material, 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.

White Material Summary

White Material Timeline

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

White Material Timeline

More About White Material

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More About White Material

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