The Before trilogy, directed by Richard Linklater and starring Ethan Hawke and Julie Delpy, is a cinematic masterpiece that unfolds over the course of three films: Before Sunrise (1995), Before Sunset (2004), and Before Midnight (2013). Each installment captures a snapshot of the evolving relationship between Jesse and Céline, two strangers who meet on a train and spend a single night together in Vienna, only to reunite years later and navigate the complexities of love, commitment, and adulthood.
1. Before Sunrise – A Serendipitous Encounter
The script of Before Sunrise introduces us to Jesse and Céline, two young strangers who meet by chance on a train and embark on a spontaneous and romantic night together in Vienna. The script is characterized by its intimate and philosophical dialogue, as Jesse and Céline engage in deep conversations about life, love, and the pursuit of happiness. Through their interactions, viewers are drawn into their whirlwind romance and the profound connection they share.
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2. Before Sunset – A Reunion of Hearts
In “Before Sunset,” the script picks up nine years after the events of “Before Sunrise,” as Jesse and Céline reunite in Paris and confront the unresolved feelings and unfulfilled promises of their past. The script is marked by its raw and honest dialogue, as Jesse and Céline grapple with the complexities of love, regret, and the passage of time. Through their conversations, viewers witness the evolution of their relationship and the enduring bond they share.
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3. Before Midnight – A Test of Love
Before Midnight takes us further into Jesse and Céline’s relationship, as the script explores the challenges and complexities of marriage and parenthood. Set against the backdrop of a vacation in Greece, the script delves into the highs and lows of Jesse and Céline’s relationship, as they confront the realities of commitment and the sacrifices that come with it. Through their candid and confrontational dialogue, viewers witness the depth of their love and the resilience of their bond.
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