The Place Beyond the Pines (2012)

Last updated:
October 20, 2024

Detailed Summary

Luke’s Desperate Robbery

Luke Glanton (Ryan Gosling), a motorcycle stunt rider, discovers he has a son with Romina (Eva Mendes), a woman he had a fling with a year earlier. Wanting to provide for his newfound family, Luke quits his job and partners with mechanic Robin (Ben Mendelsohn) to rob banks, using his motorcycle skills to make quick getaways.

Avery’s Moral Dilemma

Avery Cross (Bradley Cooper), an ambitious rookie cop, crosses paths with Luke during a bank robbery, leading to a confrontation that results in Luke’s death. Avery struggles with the moral implications of his actions and the pervasive corruption within his police department. His decision to expose the corruption puts his career and life at risk.

The Sons’ Inherited Burden

Fifteen years later, the lives of Luke and Avery’s sons, Jason (Dane DeHaan) and AJ (Emory Cohen), intertwine. Jason, unaware of his father’s criminal past, discovers the truth and seeks out AJ, leading to a violent confrontation. The film ends with Jason coming to terms with his father’s legacy and setting out on a journey to find his own path.

Movie Ending

The movie concludes with Jason driving away, leaving his past behind and heading towards an uncertain future. He has a picture of his father, Luke, and a sense of closure about his heritage, but the future is wide open.

Are There Post-Credits Scenes?

No, “The Place Beyond the Pines” does not have any post-credits scenes.

Type of Movie

This film is a crime drama that explores themes of legacy, fatherhood, and the consequences of one’s actions.

Cast

Ryan Gosling as Luke Glanton
Bradley Cooper as Avery Cross
Eva Mendes as Romina Gutierrez
Ben Mendelsohn as Robin Van Der Hook
Dane DeHaan as Jason Kancam
Emory Cohen as AJ Cross
Ray Liotta as Deluca

Film Music and Composer

The score was composed by Mike Patton. The music adds a haunting, emotional layer to the narrative, enhancing the film’s mood and themes.

Filming Locations

Schenectady, New York: The title is derived from the Iroquois meaning of Schenectady, “the place beyond the pines.” The city’s urban and rural landscapes serve as a critical backdrop, reflecting the characters’ internal and external struggles.

Awards and Nominations

Deauville American Film Festival: Won the Critics Award and the Jury Prize.
San Sebastián International Film Festival: Nominated for the Golden Shell.

Behind the Scenes Insights

Ryan Gosling performed many of his own motorcycle stunts.
Director Derek Cianfrance aimed to create a film that felt like a modern American epic, inspired by classic American cinema.
The film was shot in a linear fashion to help the actors stay in character and maintain continuity in their performances.

Inspirations and References

Fatherhood and Legacy: Cianfrance was inspired by his own experiences with fatherhood and the impact of parental actions on children’s lives.
Crime Dramas: The film draws from classic crime dramas, blending them with a contemporary narrative structure.

Alternate Endings and Deleted Scenes

The film does not have any widely known alternate endings or significant deleted scenes. The story’s structure and pacing were carefully crafted to maintain its three-part narrative.

Book Adaptations and Differences

The movie is not based on a book but is an original screenplay by Derek Cianfrance, Ben Coccio, and Darius Marder.

Memorable Scenes and Quotes

Key Scenes

Bank Robbery Getaways: Luke’s intense and daring motorcycle escapes.
Luke’s Death: The confrontation between Luke and Avery that changes both their lives.
Jason and AJ’s Confrontation: The climax where the sons face the legacy of their fathers.

Iconic Quotes

“If you ride like lightning, you’re gonna crash like thunder.” – Robin
“Not since Hall & Oates has there been such a team.” – Luke to Robin

Easter Eggs and Hidden Details

The film’s structure mirrors the narrative arcs of the fathers and sons, highlighting themes of destiny and choice.
The use of natural lighting and handheld cameras adds to the film’s raw, realistic feel.

Trivia

Ryan Gosling suggested the face tattoo for his character to symbolize his commitment to his lifestyle.
Bradley Cooper gained 40 pounds for his role to accurately portray the aging process over the 15-year span of the film.
The movie’s title refers to Schenectady, New York, the filming location and its Iroquois meaning.

Why Watch?

“The Place Beyond the Pines” is a compelling exploration of legacy, morality, and the consequences of our actions. It features powerful performances by Gosling, Cooper, and the supporting cast, combined with a gripping narrative structure.

Director’s Other Movies

Blue Valentine (2010)
The Light Between Oceans (2016)