Before Sunrise is a 1995 romantic drama film directed by Richard Linklater. It follows Jesse (Ethan Hawke) and Céline (Julie Delpy), who meet on a train in Europe and spend an enchanting night together in Vienna. The movie is renowned for its naturalistic dialogue , introspective themes, and its unique approach to the fleeting, profound connections between people.
Dialogue
Movie Scene Device Example Café Conversation Jesse and Céline’s deep, philosophical discussions reveal their worldviews and personalities. Ferris Wheel Scene Their conversation turns intimate, highlighting their emotional vulnerabilities.
Symbolism
Movie Scene Device Example Ferris Wheel Scene The Ferris wheel symbolizes the ups and downs of life and relationships. Sunrise Scene The rising sun symbolizes the beginning of a new day and the ephemeral nature of their encounter.
Foreshadowing
Movie Scene Device Example Train Scene Jesse’s suggestion to spend the day together hints at the transient nature of their relationship. Phone Call Scene Discussions about their future hint at their upcoming separation.
Metaphor
Movie Scene Device Example Record Store Scene The vinyl record spinning is a metaphor for the cyclical nature of life and love. Graveyard Scene The graves symbolize the permanence of memory versus the impermanence of life.
Irony
Movie Scene Device Example Café Fortune Teller The fortune teller’s vague predictions ironically come true in subtle ways throughout the film. Train Station Goodbye They promise to meet again, but it’s clear they might never see each other again.
Juxtaposition
Movie Scene Device Example Train Station Scene The hustle and bustle of the station contrasts with the quiet, intimate moments shared by Jesse and Céline. Night WalkThe serene nighttime streets of Vienna juxtapose their lively, heartfelt conversations.
Motif
Movie Scene Device Example Listening Booth Scene Music as a recurring motif underscores their emotional connection. Park Bench Scene Sitting and talking in various locations highlights their journey and developing bond.
Imagery
Movie Scene Device Example Sunset Scene Vivid descriptions of the sunset enhance the romantic atmosphere . Vienna Night Streets Descriptive imagery of Vienna at night adds to the film’s enchanting mood .
Allusion
Movie Scene Device Example Cemetery Scene References to famous poets and philosophers connect their dialogue to larger existential themes. Ferris Wheel Scene Allusions to classic romantic films deepen the sense of timeless romance .
Pathetic Fallacy
Movie Scene Device Example Train Scene The gentle motion of the train parallels their budding relationship. Sunrise Scene The dawning sun reflects the awakening of their feelings for each other.
Jesse
Literary Device Explanation Dialogue Jesse’s philosophical musings reveal his cynicism and search for meaning. Symbolism His constant movement symbolizes his fear of commitment and stability.
Céline
Literary Device Explanation Dialogue Céline’s introspective dialogue reveals her romantic and idealistic nature. Metaphor Her connection with nature and art reflects her deep emotional intelligence.
Character Dynamics
Aspect Explanation Juxtaposition Jesse’s cynicism contrasts with Céline’s idealism, driving the narrative and their character growth. Motif Recurrent motifs like walking and talking underscore their evolving relationship.
Love and Connection
Literary Device Explanation Dialogue Their conversations delve into the nature of love and human connection. Symbolism The city of Vienna symbolizes a temporary yet impactful meeting place for their love.
Time and Impermanence
Literary Device Explanation Foreshadowing Their discussions about the future hint at the fleeting nature of their time together. Imagery Descriptive scenes of day turning to night and night to day highlight the passage of time.
Self-Discovery
Literary Device Explanation Metaphor The journey through Vienna represents their journey of self-discovery. Juxtaposition Their differing perspectives highlight their individual paths to understanding themselves.
Literary Device Technique Explanation Dialogue Long Takes The use of extended shots allows the dialogue to flow naturally, emphasizing authenticity. Symbolism Visual Composition The framing of scenes (e.g., Ferris wheel) visually represents symbolic elements. Foreshadowing Sound Design Subtle sound cues and music foreshadow future events and emotional beats. Metaphor Visual Metaphors Visual parallels (e.g., spinning records) enhance metaphorical meaning.
Scene 1: Ferris Wheel
Scene 2: Train Station Goodbye
YouTube Link Breakdown : This scene combines irony and foreshadowing , highlighting the bittersweet nature of their farewell and the uncertainty of their future.
Scene 3: Listening Booth
Interactive Quiz
Which literary device is prominently used in the Ferris wheel scene?
What does the city of Vienna symbolize in the film?
A) Love and Connection
B) Time and Impermanence
C) Self-Discovery
Which cinematic technique is used to enhance the dialogue ?
A) Sound Design
B) Long Takes
C) Visual Metaphors
