Detailed Summary
Introduction to New York High Society
Set in 1870s New York, the film follows Newland Archer (Daniel Day-Lewis), a young lawyer from a wealthy family who is engaged to the beautiful and conventional May Welland (Winona Ryder). The story begins with their engagement, amidst the tight-knit and highly structured world of New York’s upper class.
The Arrival of Countess Ellen Olenska
The arrival of May’s cousin, Countess Ellen Olenska (Michelle Pfeiffer), disrupts this world. Ellen is separated from her abusive European husband and returns to New York seeking a divorce—a scandalous move in the eyes of society. Despite her outcast status, Newland finds himself increasingly drawn to her independence, free spirit, and disregard for social conventions.
Newland’s Growing Passion for Ellen
As Newland becomes more involved in Ellen’s affairs, his feelings for her grow. Torn between his duty to May and his desire for Ellen, he begins to question the societal expectations that dictate his life. The film captures the subtle exchanges and unspoken emotions that build tension between Newland and Ellen.
The Engagement and the Dilemma
Even as Newland’s feelings for Ellen deepen, he remains committed to marrying May. However, the struggle between his sense of duty and his passion drives much of the film’s emotional weight. Ellen, aware of the consequences for both of them, resists a deeper relationship with Newland, leading to heart-wrenching scenes of restraint and unfulfilled desire.
The Inevitable Marriage
Newland and May marry, but his longing for Ellen doesn’t diminish. He considers leaving everything behind to be with her, but societal pressures and May’s unwavering dedication trap him in the life he initially chose.
The Final Twist
Years later, after May’s death, Newland, now older, travels to Paris with his grown son. His son arranges a meeting with Ellen, who has settled there. In a poignant and bittersweet ending, Newland decides not to see her, content to hold onto the memory of what could have been.
Movie Ending
The film concludes with Newland walking away from Ellen’s Paris apartment without seeing her. He chooses to preserve the idealized version of their relationship rather than face the reality of their changed circumstances. This ending emphasizes the film’s themes of lost opportunities, societal constraints, and the sacrifices made for conformity.
Are There Post-Credits Scenes?
No, “The Age of Innocence” does not have any post-credits scenes.
Type of Movie
This film is a historical romance and period drama, exploring themes of love, repression, societal expectations, and the clash between passion and duty.
Cast
- Daniel Day-Lewis as Newland Archer
- Michelle Pfeiffer as Countess Ellen Olenska
- Winona Ryder as May Welland
- Richard E. Grant as Larry Lefferts
- Miriam Margolyes as Mrs. Mingott
- Geraldine Chaplin as Mrs. Welland
Film Music and Composer
The film’s score, composed by Elmer Bernstein, blends orchestral music with period-appropriate elements to create a lush, evocative atmosphere that underscores the tension between passion and propriety.
Filming Locations
- New York City, New York: Key scenes depicting the opulent lifestyle of New York’s elite were filmed in historically preserved locations.
- Troy, New York: The streets and interiors of Troy stood in for 1870s New York, capturing the period’s architecture and ambiance.
- Philadelphia, Pennsylvania: Several scenes were shot in historic mansions to replicate the grandeur of New York’s wealthy society.
These locations were crucial in authentically recreating the gilded age, a world filled with lavish balls, opera houses, and private dinners.
Awards and Nominations
- Academy Awards: Won Best Costume Design. Nominated for Best Supporting Actress (Winona Ryder), Best Adapted Screenplay (Jay Cocks and Martin Scorsese), Best Art Direction, and Best Original Score.
- Golden Globe Awards: Nominated for Best Director (Martin Scorsese), Best Actress in a Motion Picture – Drama (Michelle Pfeiffer), and Best Supporting Actress (Winona Ryder).
- BAFTA Awards: Nominated for Best Actor (Daniel Day-Lewis) and Best Actress (Michelle Pfeiffer).
Behind the Scenes Insights
- The film is one of Martin Scorsese’s most personal works, as he has a deep appreciation for period dramas and the intricate social codes they portray.
- Scorsese meticulously studied period literature, art, and fashion to authentically capture the subtleties of 19th-century society.
- Winona Ryder was cast after impressing Scorsese with her commitment and research into the role.
Inspirations and References
- Source Material: The film is based on Edith Wharton’s 1920 novel of the same name, which won the Pulitzer Prize.
- Literary Themes: The film draws heavily from Wharton’s critique of the rigid social codes of the Gilded Age and the emotional repression that results from adhering to these standards.
Alternate Endings and Deleted Scenes
There are no significant alternate endings or widely known deleted scenes. The film remains faithful to the novel’s bittersweet conclusion.
Book Adaptations and Differences
- Fidelity to the Novel: The movie closely follows Wharton’s narrative and dialogue, capturing the novel’s intricate social dynamics.
- Interior Monologues: The novel’s rich inner monologues are subtly translated into the film’s visual style and performances, though some character motivations are more explicitly expressed in the book.
- Narration: The film employs a voice-over narration (by Joanne Woodward) to convey important details and nuances from the novel that are challenging to depict visually.
Memorable Scenes and Quotes
Key Scenes
- Opera Scene: The opening sequence at the opera, where Newland first sees Ellen, sets the tone for the rest of the film.
- The Floral Message: Newland sending Ellen yellow roses, a symbol of his restrained passion, becomes a recurring motif.
- Final Walk Away: The ending where Newland chooses not to meet Ellen in Paris is one of the most iconic and emotionally charged moments.
Iconic Quotes
- “You gave me my first glimpse of a real life, and then you told me to carry on with a false one.” – Newland Archer
- “Is there nowhere in an aristocratic life where one may be permitted to be alive?” – Countess Ellen Olenska
- “We can’t behave like people in novels, though, can we?” – May Welland
Easter Eggs and Hidden Details
- The attention to period detail, from costume to etiquette, is so precise that it subtly reveals character traits—like how May’s wardrobe consistently emphasizes her conformity and innocence.
- The use of flowers throughout the film mirrors Newland’s internal conflict—yellow roses representing his passion for Ellen and white lilies symbolizing his obligation to May.
Trivia
- Martin Scorsese read Wharton’s novel several times as a young man and had long wanted to adapt it.
- Daniel Day-Lewis fully immersed himself in the role, even learning about 19th-century manners and social customs.
- The elaborate dinner scenes were meticulously recreated based on actual menus from the period, right down to the table settings.
Why Watch?
“The Age of Innocence” is a visually stunning and emotionally layered exploration of love, societal expectations, and the personal sacrifices made for appearances. Scorsese’s direction, combined with powerful performances and exquisite production design, offers a deeply moving experience for fans of historical drama and romance.
Director’s Other Movies
- Taxi Driver (1976)
- Raging Bull (1980)
- Goodfellas (1990)
- Gangs of New York (2002)
- The Irishman (2019)
Recommended Films for Fans
- A Room with a View (1985)
- The Remains of the Day (1993)
- Sense and Sensibility (1995)
- The House of Mirth (2000)
- Pride and Prejudice (2005)
