"What if you had a second chance with the one that got away?"
Before Sunset - Characters & Cast
Character Analysis
Jesse
Ethan Hawke
Motivation
Driven by a desperate need to find meaning and connection in a life that has become performative and hollow.
Character Arc
Begins the film as a successful but emotionally numb author hiding behind professional polish. He gradually sheds his defensive cynicism, finally admitting his profound unhappiness and his desire to stay with Celine.
Celine
Julie Delpy
Motivation
Motivated by a desire to protect herself from further heartbreak while simultaneously craving the intensity of the connection she once had.
Character Arc
Starts by projecting a content, busy life as an activist. As the day progresses, her anger and resentment regarding her failed relationships boil over, leading to a raw confession of how the night in Vienna "ruined" her for other men.
Bookstore Manager
Vernon Dobtcheff
Motivation
Maintaining the order of the book tour and the legacy of the historic bookstore.
Character Arc
Remains a static figure of the Parisian literary world, facilitating the reunion without being part of the emotional turmoil.