A Bigger Splash Synopsis & Review: Plot Summary

🎯 Quick Overview

😅 Plot Summary – Badly Explained

A rock star with laryngitis, her boyfriend, her ex, and his maybe-daughter engage in increasingly awkward poolside shenanigans until someone gets pushed, literally.

🍿 A Bigger Splash: Detailed Plot Synopsis

Introduction: A Rockstar’s Retreat

Marianne Lane, a famous rock star recovering from throat surgery, is vacationing on the idyllic Italian island of Pantelleria with her boyfriend, Paul, a filmmaker. The couple seeks solace and intimacy in this remote location, hoping for a peaceful escape from their hectic lives.

The Uninvited Guests: Harry and Penelope Arrive

Their tranquility is shattered by the unexpected arrival of Harry Hawkes, Marianne’s flamboyant ex-lover and former music producer, accompanied by his enigmatic daughter, Penelope. Harry’s larger-than-life personality and Penelope’s alluring presence disrupt the couple’s serenity, creating a palpable tension.

Jealousy and Passion: A Love Quadrangle Forms

As the four individuals spend time together, old passions reignite, and new desires emerge. Harry attempts to win back Marianne, while Penelope captivates Paul’s attention. A complex web of jealousy, longing, and unspoken desires forms, leading to increased friction and uncertainty among the group.

⚠️ Spoilers and Ending Explained

🎬 Cast & Characters

• Marianne Lane (Tilda Swinton): A famous rock star recovering from throat surgery whose vacation is disrupted by an old flame and his daughter.
• Paul De Smedt (Matthias Schoenaerts): A filmmaker and Marianne’s boyfriend, dealing with his own personal struggles amidst the unfolding drama.
• Harry Hawkes (Ralph Fiennes): Marianne’s boisterous and intrusive ex-lover and record producer who arrives unexpectedly with his daughter.
• Penelope Lannier (Dakota Johnson): Harry’s mysterious daughter whose presence adds to the tension and intrigue within the group.
• Maresciallo (Corrado Guzzanti): The head of the local law enforcement on Pantelleria.

💬 Memorable Quotes

• Paul De Smedt: “You’re obscene.” – Paul confronts Harry about his inappropriate behavior.
• Harry Hawkes: “We’re all obscene. Everyone’s obscene. That’s the whole fucking point. We see it and we love each other anyway.” – Harry’s response to Paul’s accusation, revealing his perspective on human nature and acceptance.

💰Box Office

• Budget: $15,000,000
• Domestic Gross: $2,024,099
• Worldwide Gross: $7,547,068

💥 A Bigger Splash Reviews

Personal Review

I was completely drawn in by the atmosphere of ‘A Bigger Splash.’ The Italian setting is stunning, and the tension between the characters is palpable. Ralph Fiennes’ performance is wild and unforgettable; he steals every scene. The ending was unexpected and left me with a lot to think about. I can’t stop thinking about the characters and their tangled relationships, and definitely recommend it if you are in for some artsy movies.

• Who would enjoy:
  • “Fans of psychological dramas”
  • “Viewers interested in complex character relationships”
  • “Those who enjoy films set in beautiful European locations”
  • “Admirers of Tilda Swinton, Ralph Fiennes, and Matthias Schoenaerts”
  • “People who appreciate slow-burn thrillers”
• Content warnings ⚠:
  • “Nudity”
  • “Sexual content”
  • “Strong language”
  • “Violence”
  • “Drug use”
  • “Suggestive themes”

Professional Reviews

• High on Films: “”A Bigger Splash” offers gorgeous visuals and great performances, especially from Ralph Fiennes. The psychosexual drama explores complex relationships under the Mediterranean sun, making it a visually stunning and emotionally engaging watch.
• Serving Cinema: “Despite its strengths, including Ralph Fiennes’ standout performance, the film feels like a missed opportunity, lacking emotional connection and a satisfying resolution. The film’s initial intrigue fades, and the ending is somewhat bizarre.
• N/A: “Ralph Fiennes, Dakota Johnson and Tilda Swinton may wander through A Bigger Splash naked (or nearly so), but it’s director Luca Guadignino who’s truly without clothes here. This is a genuine mess of a movie, boring as a bad dinner party for 7/8s of its length, nonsensical for the rest and exuding an irksome pretentiousness throughout. Worst, perhaps, is the way Guadignino cynically salts in occasional references to the Mediterranean migrant crisis in an attempt to add political meaning to this addled, indulgent trifle.

Audience Reactions

Ralph Fiennes’ manic energy and dancing scene were a highlight for many viewers.: Audiences generally praised the performances, especially Ralph Fiennes, and the beautiful Italian setting.

Overall Consensus: Mixed reviews, with praise for the performances (especially Fiennes) and visuals, but criticism for the slow pace and unsatisfying plot.

Awards

🛠️ Behind the Scenes

• “Tilda Swinton suggested that her character, Marianne Lane, shouldn’t be able to speak, influencing the script to accommodate her silent performance.”
• “Marianne Lane’s concert scene was filmed at the San Siro Stadium in Milan during a concert by Italian rock star Lorenzo Jovanotti. Tilda Swinton has a mutual friend with Jovanotti and they asked him if he could lend his crown for 15 minutes and the audience was asked to shout ‘Marianne Lane’ before Jovanotti came out.”
• “The film is a remake of the 1969 French film ‘La Piscine’ (The Swimming Pool) starring Alain Delon and Romy Schneider.”

🖥️ How to Watch A Bigger Splash?

A Bigger Splash is currently available to rent or buy on various platforms. You can find it on streaming services like Apple TV, Google Play Movies, and Amazon Prime Video. Check your local listings for availability, as streaming options can vary by region. It’s also often available for purchase on DVD and Blu-ray from retailers like Amazon and major online stores.

🎥 Similar Movies

If you enjoyed A Bigger Splash, you might like these similar films:

• La Piscine (1969): The original film upon which ‘A Bigger Splash’ is based, sharing the same core story of complex relationships unfolding during a vacation.
• Swimming Pool (2003): Explores similar themes of isolation, sexuality, and hidden tensions among characters in a secluded holiday setting.
• Call Me By Your Name (2017): Directed by Luca Guadagnino, this film also delves into themes of desire and the complexities of relationships in a beautiful Italian setting.

🛒 A Bigger Splash Related Products

• The Complete David Bowie (Revised and Updated): New Edition of the Definitive Biography: A comprehensive biography of David Bowie, essential reading for fans interested in the glam rock era and its influence on Marianne Lane’s character.
• A Bigger Splash [Blu-ray]: The Blu-ray edition of ‘A Bigger Splash’ for fans to experience the film’s stunning visuals and intense performances in high definition.
• Prada Sunglasses: Designer sunglasses like those worn by the characters can add a touch of Italian style.
• The Rolling Stones – Emotional Rescue (Vinyl): The classic album featuring the iconic title song, central to a memorable scene in the movie, now available on vinyl for collectors.

🎧 Soundtrack

A Bigger Splash features a captivating soundtrack that enhances the movie’s atmosphere and emotional impact. Here are some notable tracks:

• “Observatory Crest” – performed by Captain Beefheart
• “Emotional Rescue” – performed by The Rolling Stones

You can find the complete soundtrack on Amazon Music and Apple Music.

🤨 FAQ

🔥 Bonus Content

Ralph Fiennes dancing in A BIGGER SPLASH to The Rolling Stones’ “Emotional Rescue”

Seriously, have you seen Ralph Fiennes cut loose like this before? This dance scene is pure joy and totally captures the vibe of ‘A Bigger Splash’ – you HAVE to see it!

Dakota Johnson: “Matthias Schoenaerts is a sweetheart”

Ever wonder what the actors *really* think of each other? Dakota Johnson spills the beans on Matthias Schoenaerts and it’s actually so heartwarming. Check it out!

Dakota Johnson and Ralph Fiennes Interview for ‘A Bigger Splash’ – 72nd Venice Film Festival

Want to know what Dakota Johnson and Ralph Fiennes really thought about their characters? This interview gives you the inside scoop, and they’re both so insightful – it’s a must-watch for any fan!

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